On the evening of December 14, 2024, Ballando con le Stelle captivated audiences during its highly anticipated semifinal episode, hosted by Milly Carlucci. The competition showcased remarkable talent as contestants battled it out on the dance floor for coveted spots in the upcoming final. With the backdrop of viewer anticipation heightened by media buzz surrounding returning judge Guillermo Mariotto, the stakes were at their highest.
This week's results were particularly impressive for Ballando con le Stelle, achieving viewership numbers far beyond reality. The show tempted more than 4 million viewers, claiming a remarkable 29.1% share, far outpacing Canale5's broadcast of Il Volo – Tutti per uno, which managed 14% with just 1.9 million viewers. Indeed, on this Saturday night, the dance competition was the uncontested winner of the ratings battle.
Joining Milly Carlucci on the stage were the couples vying for the grand prize. The performances showcased breathtaking routines as voters were treated to significant choreography progressions. Key couples included dramatis personae such as Federica Pellegrini and Pasquale La Rocca, who led off the night with the first performance, and the ever-popular Bianca Guaccero partnered with Giovanni Pernice.
During the evening, the excitement reached fever pitch as the audience awaited the results. The tension heightened with the return of judge Guillermo Mariotto, who had previously departed after the episode airing on November 30. This week, he re-entered the fray, offering apologies and explanations for his prior absence, attributing it to emotional challenges. His presence brought relief and added drama to the judging panel.
The judging was fierce, with each couple going all out to impress both the audience and the judges. Before the announcement of the final scores, Alberto Matano complimented the jury, stating, "Questa sera devo fare i complimenti alla giuria perché trovo assolutamente equo il giudizio di questa semifinale," highlighting how important balanced and just scoring is for the competition.
But the night belonged to Bianca Guaccero and Giovanni Pernice, who claimed victory during the semifinal with 60 points, following strong performances and innovative dance routines. Guaccero, bursting with joy, commented on their win, engaging the audience with her excitement. The duo not only impressed the judges but also got significant audience votes, securing their place in the final with their outstanding routine.
Unfortunately, the semifinals also brought heartbreak. Three couples found themselves facing elimination during the night. Notably, Francesco Paolantoni and Anastasia Kuzmina, along with Tommaso Marini and Sophia Berto, faced the judges' scrutiny. Despite their best efforts, they were the ones to be sent home, with Paolantoni commenting, "Non tutte le coppie in gara sono riuscite a conquistarsi un posto per la finale," succinctly capturing the emotional gravity of elimination.
The semi-final event continued to sparkle with remarkable performances. Federico Nargi and Luca Favilla also made impressive strides, alongside Anna Lou Castoldi and Nikita Perotti who demonstrated innovative and polished routines. But the spotlight firmly shone on the couples progressing to the final: Federica Pellegrini and Pasquale La Rocca, Bianca Guaccero and Giovanni Pernice, and finally, Anna Lou Castoldi and Nikita Perotti.
What awaits the viewers next week? The anticipation is building as the final event on December 21, 2024, promises not only to deliver the ultimate competitive finale but also to reveal which couple will be crowned champions of Ballando con le Stelle. With special performances planned, professionals, and guest stars joining, the event is poised to be spectacular.
Mark your calendars, as the final will surely provide both unforgettable dances and emotional moments as the competition reaches its pinnacle, culminating the talented season. Who will take home the coveted trophy? That question lingers as we inch closer to the grand finale!
