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- Judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s off-air praise for Giada
- What Giada De Laurentiis said after leaving the competition
- The partnership with Alan Bersten and rehearsal moments
- Audience reaction and format controversy
- Why Giada’s run resonated beyond the scores
- Moments fans remembered from the night
- Where and when to watch more
Carrie Ann Inaba broke her silence about Giada De Laurentiis’ short run on Dancing With the Stars, sharing the fuller feedback she wished she could have given on air. Her remarks, posted on Threads, praised Giada’s courage and the joy she brought to the ballroom. The episode that sent Giada and partner Alan Bersten home also sparked debate about the judges’ limited on-air commentary.
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s off-air praise for Giada
After the episode, Inaba took to social media to expand on the one-word critique she was allowed to give during the broadcast. She described Giada’s performance as a striking example of bravery and authenticity.
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Inaba celebrated Giada’s honesty and the delight she showed while learning. She noted that stepping outside one’s comfort zone is freeing, even if it feels scary.
What Giada De Laurentiis said after leaving the competition
Giada reacted to her elimination with gratitude toward fans and the show. She acknowledged trying her best and thanked supporters for their encouragement.
In a follow-up Instagram video, she spoke directly to viewers about what the experience meant. She emphasized learning, growth, and the thrill of taking on something new at 56.
- Gratitude: She thanked fans and shared appreciation for messages from other parents.
- Representation: Giada said she felt proud to show women in their 50s can try new challenges.
- Encouragement: She urged others to do things that scare them, calling it a rush.
The partnership with Alan Bersten and rehearsal moments
Giada repeatedly praised Alan for his patience and steady support during rehearsals. She credited him with helping her find determination and joy in the process.
The pair had a tense moment in practice, but Giada framed their dynamic as ultimately warm and constructive.
Audience reaction and format controversy
Viewers reacted strongly after the episode aired. Many expressed frustration about the show’s decision to limit two judges to full feedback and force the third into a single-word comment.
That format choice became part of the discussion about whether couples received fair critique on elimination night.
Key complaints from fans
- Less detailed feedback from the full panel.
- A perception that format changes affected judging transparency.
- Disappointment that some contestants couldn’t hear more constructive notes live.
Why Giada’s run resonated beyond the scores
Even though Giada’s salsa earned a low score, many viewers connected with her journey. She represented someone trying something unfamiliar and doing it publicly.
Her presence on the show sparked conversations about age, reinvention, and courage. For Giada, sharing the experience with her 18-year-old daughter, Jade, added emotional meaning.
Moments fans remembered from the night
- Giada’s honest reaction after elimination: “I tried my best.”
- Carrie Ann’s social post praising Giada as a beginner who embraced the challenge.
- Giada’s shout-out to Alan for his patience and partnership.
- The backlash over the reduced judge feedback for each pairing.
Where and when to watch more
Dancing With the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and is also available on Disney+. The season continues with new pairings and the results of the recent controversy may influence future broadcasts.
