RTL's popular dance competition 'Let's Dance' continues to captivate audiences as the 18th season progresses. The stakes have never been higher as celebrities battle it out on the dance floor, hoping to impress both the judges and viewers with their moves and routines. But with the competition heating up, heartbreaking eliminations are inevitable.
Just recently, Leyla Lahouar and her professional partner Sergiu Maruster faced the reality of the show as they became the latest pair to be eliminated. The decision came after the third show on March 14, 2025, wherein they performed the Slowfox. Unfortunately, they garnered only 11 points from the judges, leading to their exit from the competition.
Initially, 14 celebrities joined the competition, embarking on their dance journeys on February 21, 2025. Since then, each week has brought its share of surprises, awe-inspiring performances, and not to mention the tense moments of uncertainty leading to eliminations.
During the most recent episode, the remaining contestants displayed their best choreography, all vying for the title of 'Dancing Star 2025'. Leyla and Sergiu faced off against other pairs but found themselves on shaky ground as the audience votes tallied. "It was clear we needed more support from the audience to secure our place," said Leyla, reflecting on the elimination.
Despite the setback, Leyla has expressed pride at having participated. During her performance, she dedicated her dance to her late father, who passed away in 2018. "My Papa lives unfortunately no longer, he died in 2018," she shared, adding, "I believe my Papa would be so unbelievably proud of me, knowing I am here on 'Let's Dance' and giving it my best. It's truly a beautiful feeling to feel closer to him through this experience." This emotional dedication clearly touched the audience, underscoring the deep personal stakes contestants encounter on such reality shows.
The competition had already seen Osan Yaran and Roland Trettl leave the show; Osan was the first to be eliminated after Show 1, and Roland followed suit after Show 2. These early eliminations sparked discussions among fans about the unpredictability of the contest, as each celebrity must give their all to remain favorite among audiences as well as judges.
With Leyla’s exit, only 11 dance pairs remain battling for the coveted title. Celebrity contestants now include well-known faces such as Fabian Hambüchen, Taliso Engel, Jeanette Biedermann, and Christine Neubauer, each bringing their distinct styles to the dance floor. The audience buzzes with excitement over who will next impress the jury and win the admiration of fans.
The jury, consisting of renowned figures like Jorge González, Motsi Mabuse, and Joachim Llambi, plays a significant role, wielding the power of points which could either bolster or cut short the contestants' dreams. With Jorge famously calling out "Ekstase pur!" over exemplary performances, the judges bring their insights and critiques to the stage, making each show both entertaining and nerve-wracking.
Overall, 'Let's Dance' offers all the thrills of live competition, infused with emotional narratives and the realities of public voting. The 18th season, which has become noteworthy for its highs and lows, is set to culminate on May 23, 2025, when one fortunate dancer lifts the trophy as the season's champion.
While Leyla Lahouar may have had her aspirations cut short, she leaves with cherished memories and long-lasting experiences made on the dance floor, reminding viewers of the passion and heart embedded within the glitz and glamour of reality television competitions. "Let's Dance" continues framing stories of triumph and heartache, illustrating the competitive nature of art and performance.