Hey guys!! I know this post is coming in late (I’m so sorry 🫣), but life has been crazy this week. I didn’t want to skip this recap though because Dedication Night on Dancing with the Stars, often known as DWTS, is one of my favorite nights of the season. It’s always so emotional, so powerful, and truly reminds you why this show is so special.

We also had a guest judge join the panel this week, which made everything extra exciting. Every single couple came to the ballroom ready to give their hearts to the floor — and they did not disappoint. 🪩💫

My Top 3 of the Night 🌟

1. Robert Irwin & Witney Carson – Robert is truly becoming a star this season. This dance had so much heart and power, and the dedication to his mom made it extra special. I was tearing up the entire time 😭.

2. Whitney Leavitt & Mark Ballas – These two have such magical chemistry on the dance floor. The way they told their story through movement was stunning — definitely one of their best dances yet.

3. Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach – Dylan is peaking at the perfect time. This was easily his strongest performance so far. You can tell he’s growing more confident every single week.

Everyone Else ✨

Even though those were my top 3, the entire cast had beautiful, emotional dances this week:

• Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy – I loved this routine so much. Alix looked gorgeous and really gave one of her most elegant performances to date. You can see how much she’s improving technically, and Val always creates stunning choreography.

• Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa – Jordan ate this up. She brought so much strength and passion, and I love seeing her confidence shine through more and more each week.

• Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten – Elaine’s routine was so cute, as a huge Parent Trap fan I love that her and Lisa Ann are still friends! Thought the choreo could be better!

• Scott Hoying & Rylee Arnold – Okay, so this one wasn’t my fave if I’m being honest 😬. It just didn’t land for me the way I hoped it would. Scott has had stronger weeks, and I feel like the emotion didn’t connect as much in this routine.

• Jen Affleck & Jan Ravnik – Jen showed a lot of vulnerability and softness in this performance. It wasn’t the flashiest dance of the night, but it was really heartfelt.

• Danielle Fishel & Pasha Pashkov – Their routine was more upbeat and fun compared to a lot of the emotional numbers, which made it a little less elegant — but it was cute and had great energy.

• Andy Richter & Emma Slater – Same here: more of an upbeat vibe than an elegant one. Andy’s emotion was there, but compared to some of the other dances, it didn’t hit quite as hard for me.

No One Went Home 😱

For the first time this season, there was no elimination, and honestly I loved that. It gave everyone the chance to just dance and focus on their dedications without the stress of someone going home. It felt really special and emotional.

Next Up: Wicked Night 🧙‍♀️💚

Next week is Wicked Night, and I cannot wait. Bring on the dramatic costumes, big choreography, and magical vibes. I just know it’s going to be iconic. ✨

That’s a wrap for my Week 5 DWTS Recap, loves! 💋 It was such a heartfelt week — and even though not every routine was a favorite for me, I loved seeing the cast open up and share their stories.

Who were your top three? Drop your picks in the comments or DM me — I love hearing who everyone’s rooting for each week! 🪩

— Austyn 💖