Guest Judge Blunder on Dancing With the Stars Leaves Contestants and Viewers Stunned
The Dancing With the Stars ballroom was energized for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night. Among the sparkle and splendor, guest judge Flavor Flav had an unanticipated score issue that gained media and fan attention.
In recognition of Earle’s New Jersey roots, she and Val Chmerkovskiy danced a powerful paso doble to Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer.” Regular judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli gave them a perfect 10. Flavor Flav broke the run with a 9, scoring 39/40 instead of perfect.
After the episode, Flavor Flav stated the 9 was incorrectly awarded. He said the scoring system involves entering the score on a computer and elevating the paddle, so he struck 9 instead of 10. He regrets, saying the pair deserved his perfect 10. It was impossible to modify the score once established.
The show had more surprises than this tragedy. Flavor Flav surprised Andy Richter, who typically finishes last, with a high score. Longtime supporters called the guest judge’s decisions crazy.
The incident shows the difficulties of guest judges inexperienced with live competition scoring and tempo. The regular judges’ rhythm and trustworthiness are expected by viewers after numerous seasons. When a guest judge makes a mistake, the audience may question scoring integrity and competition fairness.
Mistakes affect more than numbers. One mis-entered score may damage Earle and Chmerkovskiy, fans said on social media. Though safe this week, the missed perfect score overshadowed a nice performance.
Earle and Chmerkovskiy were devastated. The panel appreciated their performance, but the hiccup raised questions regarding timing, soundtrack coordination, and whether the guest judge understood technological requirements. Flavor Flav, known for music rather than dancing, had to manage celebrity with competition.
This episode may make the show’s writers reconsider entertainment-judgment balance. Celebrity guest judges draw attention, but they may breach fairness and scoring transparency demands. When viewers focus on scores, backstage comments, and social media, big mistakes stand out.
Fans will undoubtedly watch how the show handles similar situations. Do guest judges learn scoring mechanics? Will producers change error-correction processes? As for now, the episode shows that humans are unpredictable even on live TV.
Focus on your craft, contestants. This may encourage Earle and Chmerkovskiy to execute another amazing routine. Dramatism surprises spectators and alters the season. Dancing With the Stars relies on surprise and credibility, so it’s a reminder and opportunity. Maintaining equilibrium is essential.
Sources
Entertainment Weekly article on the scoring mishap
People magazine exclusive interview with Flavor Flav
Parade coverage of the judging error
