When the ballroom turned green for “Wicked Night” on “Dancing with the Stars”, Mark Ballas and Whitney Leavitt took the stage with a quickstep set to “Popular,” one of the musical’s most iconic songs. Their performance was bright, playful, and full of personality, perfectly capturing the song’s charm.
While the routine impressed many viewers, it also drew attention online after fans speculated about behind-the-scenes favoritism and production choices surrounding the special themed episode.
Ballas & Leavitt’s ‘Popular’ Performance & Scores
The couple receive the first 10 of the season and get a combined score of 39 out of 40 tonight.
Mark’s Return and Whitney’s Breakthrough
Mark Ballas, a two-time DWTS champion, returned to the show this season after a brief hiatus, bringing his signature creativity and precision back to the ballroom. Paired with Whitney Leavitt—who previously gained recognition as a dancer and influencer—Ballas has taken on both a mentoring and collaborative role. Whitney, who described this opportunity as “a dream come true,” has quickly become one of the season’s breakout contestants, praised for her poise and adaptability.
Their partnership has been defined by strong chemistry and high production value, blending Mark’s professional edge with Whitney’s fresh enthusiasm. Each week, their routines have showcased intricate footwork and storytelling, earning consistent praise from the judges. “Wicked Night” was no exception, as their quickstep delivered a seamless mix of technique and theatrical flair, highlighting their growing synergy.
The “Wicked Night” Performance and Fan Reaction
For the themed episode, couples were assigned songs inspired by “Wicked”, ahead of the upcoming film adaptation. Ballas and Leavitt’s quickstep to “Popular” featured lavish staging, bright costuming, and clever choreography that leaned into the humor of the song. The performance earned solid scores from the judges and enthusiastic applause from the live audience.
However, social media lit up after the episode aired, with some viewers alleging the couple received preferential treatment during production. Mark Ballas later clarified that he and Whitney did not have input in song selection and that the creative direction was handled by the show’s producers. Despite the chatter, both dancers maintained a positive tone, focusing on the fun and artistry of the night.
As the season continues, Ballas and Leavitt remain strong contenders in the competition. Their “Wicked Night” performance reaffirmed their status as one of the show’s most polished and entertaining pairs—balancing professional experience, vibrant energy, and undeniable stage presence in every routine.
