On Friday, February 28, 2025, the long-awaited 18th season of "Let's Dance" kicked off with much fanfare, bringing together 14 celebrities ready to showcase their dancing skills. This season promises not just extravagant dance routines but also emotional highs and lows as participants vie for the title of "Dancing Star." The show is characterized by its exciting performances, passionate judges, and the unyielding competitive spirit among contestants.
A standout from the initial show was Taliso Engel, who, along with his partner Patricija Ionel, dazzled the audience and judges alike with their Quickstep, scoring 23 points, which tied him for the highest score of the week with former gymnast Fabian Hambüchen. The judges praised Taliso's impressive performance, with Jorge González remarking on his "best body posture" and Motsi Mabuse describing it as the "best standard dance of the evening." Joachim Llambi, known for his often harsh critiques, pushed for more dynamism overall.
Overall, the audience was treated to various performances, each accompanied by its own drama and flair. For example, Marc Eggers and Renata Lusin performed a Tango to Britney Spears' "Womanizer," earning them 20 points, demonstrating the show's blend of modern music with traditional dance styles. Meanwhile, legendary pop songs created the backdrop for other performances, including the Cha Cha Cha by Sandra Safiulov, who scored 14 points, and Roland Trettl, who fell short with only 13 points during his routine.
While performances were the core of the show, the drama extended beyond the dance floor. Jeanette Biedermann and Leyla Lahouar both had to withdraw from the competition due to illness. Jeanette announced to fans via video, "I have been suffering from high fever for days," urging her supporters to stay tuned for her return when she gets back to full health. Leyla echoed her sentiments, detailing her struggles with throat pains and significant discomfort. "I’m really not doing well at all health-wise," she lamented.
Critique was abundant, especially from judge Joachim Llambi, whose unfiltered comments often spark outrage among fans. After Paola Maria's slow Waltz to Édith Piaf's "La Vie en Rose," Llambi underscored her performance’s flaws, describing it as lacking "correct footwork" and insufficient movement. He emphasized the need for her to display more personality and intensity, stating, "What is happening here is what's real life, and I want you to express your inner self through your dance." Despite his harsh judgment, Motsi Mabuse softened the critique by praising Paola's potential, encouraging her to exaggerate movements for more vivid expressions.
The competitive atmosphere of the show is invigorated not just by performances but also by the audience's voting influence, with fans urged to support their favorites by calling in. With the first elimination looming, viewers are left anxious about which contestants will advance and who might be headed for elimination.
The reactions on social media to Llambi’s comments about Paola were mixed, with many expressing outrage over his treatment of her, attributing it to her influencer status rather than her dance performance. Comments such as "Paola should be rated as well as any other contestant," and "Is Llambi biased just because she's from social media?" highlight the conversation surrounding fairness on the show.
Each contestant not only has to prove their dance capabilities but also navigate the opinions of seasoned judges and the dynamics of public appreciation. The first episode successfully set the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season filled with weeks of drama, growth, and spirited competition.
With viewers tuning in eagerly, the anticipation builds for next week’s performances, where the remaining contestants will look to improve their scores and secure their places for another round. Until then, fans will be left to wonder who will take the glittering trophy this season. The excitement is undeniably contagious, as "Let's Dance" continues to evolve, captivating audiences both on and off the dance stage.