The semi-finals of Dancing with the Stars left fans reeling with shock after the unexpected elimination of Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas on November 18. Despite their stellar performances and feedback, they were cut just before the finale, sparking a wave of reactions from viewers. One vocal critic of the decision was former DWTS champion Kaitlyn Bristowe, whose bold take resonated with many fans.
In a series of Instagram Stories following the elimination, Bristowe shared her perspective on the surprising turn of events. She highlighted the backlash that Leavitt had faced, particularly in connection to her appearance on Season 3 of the Hulu reality show The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. Criticism of Leavitt’s pursuit of a spot on Dancing with the Stars and her dance experience had been prevalent throughout the season.
Having won Season 29 of Dancing with the Stars herself, Bristowe defended Leavitt, emphasizing that she knew her personally outside of the reality television realm. She spoke out against the online “mean girl” energy that had targeted Leavitt, urging for empathy and understanding towards someone pursuing their dreams with hard work and dedication.
Bristowe’s impassioned plea struck a chord with many fans, as discussions on platforms like TikTok and Reddit echoed her sentiments. Viewers expressed concerns about the cyberbullying and negativity that had tainted the season, showcasing a shift towards a more compassionate and supportive approach towards the show’s contestants.
As the finale of Dancing with the Stars draws near, the controversy surrounding Leavitt’s elimination serves as a reminder of the power of social media in shaping public opinion. While the competitive nature of the show can fuel passionate debates among viewers, Bristowe’s call for kindness and understanding resonates strongly in a digital landscape often fraught with criticism and judgment.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.