“Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 is finished, and it was one of the most incredible seasons yet! The level of talent and the likability of so many of the contestants made it an exciting finale between Alix Earle and her professional dance partner Val Chmerkovskiy, Robert Irwin and his professional dance partner Witney Carson, Dylan Efron and his professional dance partner Daniella Karagach, Jordan Chiles and her professional dance partner Ezra Sosa, and Elaine Hendrix and her professional dance partner Alan Bersten.
The win ultimately went to Irwin and Carson, but Derek Hough took time to praise each of the finalists and their partners.
Derek Hough Praises Elaine Hendrix
Hough posted a photo on Instagram of Hendrix and Bersten smiling and standing together after their dance. In the text over the picture, the DWTS Season 34 judge shared his thoughts. “Elaine, just wow! You came into this journey wanting to reclaim a part of yourself, and you didn’t just do that, you created an extraordinary new chapter. You turned dance from a memory into your reality again, and it was evident every time you stepped onto that floor.”
He continued, “Your journey has truly been a hero’s journey, full of challenges turned into triumphs, and a setback that set you up for the most beautiful comeback. It was an honor and a pleasure to have a front-row seat to see Elaine the dancer shine. Thank you for sharing your gift with us all.” In the photo, Hough also praised Bersten for the “amazing job” he did helping Hendrix’s dream become a reality and making it to the final.
Hough is correct that Elaine is a tough and resilient individual. She struggled with an injury yet came back to do even better in the competition. Fans loved seeing her in the finals, and she placed fifth.
Fans React To Derek Hough’s Praise
Hough’s fans were impressed that he took time to praise each finalist and their coach on his post. As a judge, he is often praised for being fair. Because he was previously a professional dancer on the show, he can understand the hard work and dedication that goes into this competition on another level.
“I love how you complimented not only the stars but their coaches, the professional dancers. So sincere and caring,” a comment reads. “Derek I respect you so much for this. Thank you for making the show fun and being so well-rounded as a judge and host! “ another fan shared.
A third fan also shared their thoughts, writing, “Hands down the best season ever. My favorite. All 5 finalists deserved to win! I loved them all. Also thank you for a show we can watch as a family. Me and my 17 year old daughter were jumping up and down on the couches last night after those incredible dances!”
