Dancing With The Stars Judges 2021 Meet The Talented Panel And Their Impact

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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26-03-2025

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The 30th season of Dancing With The Stars (DWTS) boasted a panel of judges renowned for their expertise and distinct personalities. Their critiques, while sometimes harsh, undeniably shaped the competition and the performances of the contestants. Let's delve into the judging panel of 2021 and examine their individual contributions to the show's success.

The 2021 Judging Panel: A Force of Nature

This season featured a familiar face alongside new additions, creating a dynamic blend of experience and fresh perspectives. The judges were:

• Len Goodman: The veteran judge, known for his traditional ballroom style and often-used phrase, "Strictly Ballroom", provided a consistent and authoritative voice throughout the season. His critiques were grounded in technique, offering invaluable insight for contestants aiming for technical perfection.

• Carrie Ann Inaba: With her years of experience as a dancer and choreographer, Inaba brought a unique perspective to the judging panel. Her critiques frequently focused on artistry and emotional connection, encouraging contestants to express themselves beyond mere technical skill.

• Derek Hough: A celebrated dancer and choreographer in his own right, Hough joined the panel in 2020 and continued to impress in 2021. His feedback provided contestants with both technical and artistic direction, reflecting his vast experience in the dance world. His enthusiasm was infectious and added a new dynamic to the panel.

• Bruno Tonioli: The flamboyant and often eccentric judge, known for his colorful commentary, was absent for part of the season due to travel restrictions. His absence highlighted his distinct role on the panel – providing a source of entertainment and insightful, albeit sometimes unconventional, observations. His return added a needed element of theatrical flair.

The Impact of the Judges: More Than Just Scores

The judges' impact extended beyond simply awarding scores. Their critiques offered invaluable feedback, shaping the contestants' performances week after week. They pushed the dancers to improve their technique, explore their artistry, and ultimately, enhance the overall quality of the show. The combination of their individual styles and perspectives fostered a well-rounded evaluation process, ensuring that the competition remained fair and challenging.

Beyond Technique: The Emphasis on Performance

While technical skill remained crucial, the 2021 judges placed a notable emphasis on performance quality. This meant not just executing steps flawlessly, but also conveying emotion, engaging the audience, and demonstrating a true understanding of the dance style. This broader approach enriched the competition and delivered a more compelling viewing experience for audiences.

A Legacy of Excellence

The 2021 Dancing With The Stars judging panel, with its blend of experience and fresh perspectives, played a pivotal role in shaping the season's success. Their combined expertise not only judged the performances but also served as a significant catalyst for the dancers' growth and development throughout the competition. Their influence continues to impact the future iterations of the show, shaping the expectations and standards for contestants.