Along with a glamorous lineup of 13 other “Dancing with the Stars” contestants, Corey Feldman has made his debut on show with his partner Jenna Johnson — and, as you might expect of the 1980s child star, his routine incorporated several of Michael Jackson’s most iconic moves.
Feldman, of course, was close friends with the late King of Pop when he was a child and teenager, and has recounted his positive experiences with the megastar on many occasions.
Throughout his own musical career, Feldman’s performances have often included a clear MJ influence — and his inaugural DWTS dance didn’t disappoint in that regard.
Feldman and Johnson performed a Tango to a rendition of Billy Joel’s “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” on the Season 34 premiere, with the actor incorporating Jackson’s trademark crotch grab, thrusts, and kick — something co-host Alfonso Ribeiro was quick to point out as Feldman’s performance ended.
While the star of “The Goonies,” “Stand by Me,” and “Lost Boys” didn’t disgrace himself by any means, he still found himself at the bottom of the week 1 leaderboard.
Feldman and Johnson’s ‘Fun’ Dance Scored Low Points
GettyRegular judge Carrie Ann Inaba was absent from the opening show, meaning the competing the couples were scored on a 20-point scale by Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough.
Tonioli called Feldman “Tango Jackson,” described his performance as “great,” and praised his ability as an entertainer, but directed the star to work on his technique going forward and marked him 5 out of 10.
Hough said Feldman was a “Hollywood icon” who had appeared in some of his favorite films, and called it an honor to see him on the show. He said the performance was “fun to watch” and enjoyed Feldman’s “softness,” but suggested he work on his technique, form, and frame. He gave him a mark of 4 out of 10.
That meant Feldman scored 9 out of 20, placing him at the foot of the leaderboard alongside actor and comedian Andy Richter. At the other end, wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin and reality television star Whitney Leavitt led the way with 15 points.
Feldman’s ‘Honest’ Words Won the Hearts of Everyone Watching
GettyFeldman’s opening number on “Dancing with the Stars” may not have earned him a place at the top of the leaderboard, but his post-dance words won the hearts of everyone watching.
Co-host Julianne Hough referenced the fact that Feldman has suffered with scoliosis — a condition resulting in abnormal twisting and curvature of the spine — and asked the star what the “Dancing with the Stars” experience has been like when bearing that in mind.
He answered gracefully, saying, “I have to be honest, this is such a reward for me.” He continued, “What do I do to improve my form? Because I have terrible posture, I’ve had it since I was a kid, and this is like a gift landing in my lap that is helping me to fix a problem that I’ve always wanted to better. So, thank you.”
It prompted a warm reception from the live crowd, Julianne Hough described his words as “so beautiful,” and it made Derek Hough feel guilty about giving Feldman a low score.
One thing’s for sure: “Dancing with the Stars” fans will be rooting for Corey Feldman going forward. Here’s hoping he can work on that technique and earn a higher score on the next show.
