Ballas and Leavitt Shine in Foxtrot on Dancing with the Stars

LOS ANGELES, CA — Tonight on “Dancing with the Stars,” fans witnessed a captivating Foxtrot routine from seasoned pro Mark Ballas and newcomer Leavitt. The episode aired as the competition gained momentum, showcasing the duo’s growth and artistry.

Ballas, who has returned to the show this season, combined technical skill with performance flair. Leavitt, although newer to the show, displayed impressive adaptability. Their performance to “Room Where It Happens” from the musical “Hamilton” captivated the audience and judges alike, earning them a score of 25 out of 30.

Carrie Ann Inaba gave her first 9 of the season to the pair, highlighting their progress. Leavitt expressed emotional joy, sharing that her daughter was in attendance for the first time this season.

While the Foxtrot was the highlight of the evening, reactions to their Week 3 Samba, performed to “Shake Ya Ass,” lingered in fan discussions. Critics had voiced concerns over the duo’s stylistic choices and execution. In response, Shirley Ballas, a judge and Mark’s mother, defended their performance. She explained that Samba’s nuanced rhythm is often overlooked by casual viewers and that such performances invite diverse opinions.

Shirley emphasized that while not every artistic risk guarantees success, the effort and technical skill behind Ballas and Leavitt’s routine warranted acknowledgment. Her remarks reinforced confidence in Leavitt’s partnership with Mark and his artistic decisions.

In addition to their dance performances, speculation has grown among fans regarding Ballas’s potential ties to the original cast of “Hamilton.” Articles discussing this theory note how some believe his stage presence hints at experience with the musical’s choreography. However, there is no documented evidence to support this claim. Ballas’s background is rooted in extensive dance and television experience, but his connection to “Hamilton” remains unconfirmed.

This speculation highlights how closely dance enthusiasts observe their favorite performers and how impressions can lead to myths and stories within fandom.