‘Wicked Night’ Performance Showcases Efron’s Growth, Earning High Praise for Sensuality—Yet the Scoring Falls Short of Fan Expectations
LOS ANGELES, CA – The ballroom was set ablaze during Dancing with the Stars‘ highly anticipated “Wicked Night,” but for many viewers, the true rush of joy came from Dylan Efron and pro partner Daniella Karagach’s stunning Rumba to “I’m Not That Girl.” The performance solidified Efron’s status as a top contender and a breakout star, but the resulting scores—a trio of 8s and a single 8 from the judges for a total of 32/40—sparked a firestorm of controversy among his devoted fanbase.
The public outcry was immediate and fierce, with fans feeling the judges had dramatically underscored one of the most artistically and emotionally compelling routines of the evening. The consensus online was clear: “Justice for Dylan’s scores!!!!!”
A Rumba of Emotional Depth and Sensual Control
Following a personal triumph the week prior, where Efron landed the season’s highest score with his Contemporary routine, the pressure was on to deliver in a Latin dance. The Rumba is notoriously difficult for male celebrities, requiring fluid hip action, immaculate control, and intense emotional connection—all set to a slow, deliberate tempo that exposes every technical flaw.
Efron and Karagach’s Rumba, set to the moving “I’m Not That Girl” sung by Cynthia Erivo, transcended the technical challenges. The routine told the story of a realization and a shifting relationship, with Efron embodying a mature, grounded masculinity praised by the judges.
The chemistry between the two partners was palpable, leaving a powerful impression on the audience. One fan, captivated by the raw sensuality of the dance, commented: “One always wants to have a cigarette after watching Danielle do Latin!” Another, noting Efron’s surprising presence, quipped: “And here I thought Zac Efron was the hotter one but whew.”
The Judges’ Critiques: High Praise, Low Numbers
Despite the obvious impact the Rumba had on the room, the judges’ scores did not reflect the overwhelming fan sentiment.
- Bruno Tonioli complimented the star’s proficiency in the difficult style, joking that Efron’s “hips are no problem at all” and calling the routine “subtle yet romantic” and praising his “beautiful frame.”
- Jon M. Chu, the Wicked film director serving as a guest judge, was impressed with Efron’s connection, stating he was “very impressed with how connected Dylan remained with the performance throughout.”
- Derek Hough acknowledged the difficulty of the Rumba, adding: “You are being very strong in your movement. You are deliberate, intentional.”
- Carrie Ann Inaba noted the partnership created the magic, but pointed out a small technical issue: she “did notice his foot got stuck during the drag turn.”
The consistent theme from the panel was Efron’s incredible growth and connection. However, the four 8s for a score of 32/40 felt like a strategic hold-back, especially in a night where the season’s first 10s were handed out to other couples.
The Fight for a ‘9’: Fan Defense of Technical Skill
The judges’ notes—particularly on minor technical issues—did little to quell the outrage of fans who saw the bigger picture of Efron’s journey. Many argued that for a celebrity starting with no dance background, his execution of the Rumba was a revolutionary achievement that deserved to be rewarded.
A highly analytical fan passionately defended the star’s effort, stating: “As far as growth from no experience to now, he’s by far the best. I did see the slight ‘shakiness’ on the foot drags, but I still think he should’ve had a 9 in there.” The fan further explained the complexity of the routine: “The control needed to look seamless in the rhumba is quite challenging, plus that could’ve even have been a technical difference in the floor from his rehearsal space.”
The debate highlights a recurring conflict in DWTS judging: scoring based on professional-level technical perfection versus scoring based on growth, difficulty, and emotional performance achieved by an amateur. Fans believe Efron excelled in the latter categories to a degree that merited a higher mark.
The ‘Lift’ Controversy: Was It or Wasn’t It?
Adding a layer of speculation to the scoring debate was the discussion around one specific moment in the Rumba: a dramatic, slow transition where Efron carefully dipped and transferred Karagach.
One fan asked the question on everyone’s mind: “I’m really surprised that Carrie Ann didn’t call that lift.” Inaba, known as the judge who strictly calls out “illegal lifts” in Rumba (which is an unallowed movement where both of the celebrity’s feet leave the floor), remained silent on the issue. This silence, for some, implied that the move was technically a legitimate dip and confirmed the complexity of the choreography. For others, it was simply another reason the score of 32/40 felt like a punitive gesture.
Dylan Efron: The Breakout Star Facing the Score Barrier
Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach’s “Wicked Night” Rumba was a true moment of festivity, showcasing the star’s immense dedication and Karagach’s genius choreography. While the score of 32/40 was far from the bottom of the leaderboard, the overwhelming reaction from the audience—demanding “Justice for Dylan’s scores!” and asking “HOW DID HE NOT GET AT LEAST ONE 9”—sends a clear message. Efron has earned the public’s respect and admiration as the season’s most improved dancer.
The team has proven their ability to blend technical dance with powerful storytelling. Moving forward, the only question that remains is whether the judges will finally reward the amateur star’s incredible journey and undeniable talent with the 9s and 10s his fans believe he has already earned.
