Bobby Bones Admits He ‘Cheated’ on ‘DWTS’ Before Controversial Season 27 Win
Bobby Bones, the unexpected champion of Season 27 of “Dancing with the Stars” (DWTS), recently ignited a firestorm of controversy with his admission that he didn’t exactly play by the rules during the competition. In a revealing interview on Jason Tartick’s podcast, Bones opened up about his unique approach to the show, disclosing that he went beyond the allotted four hours of practice time with his dance partner. He secretly recorded his sessions and rented a studio for additional rehearsal time, driven by the feeling that he was lagging significantly behind his fellow contestants.
Despite the uproar regarding the ethics of his participation, Bones triumphed in the 2018 competition, paving the way for his victory alongside professional dancer Sharna Burgess. Throughout the season, Bones consistently received lower scores compared to his rivals, leading many to question the legitimacy of his win. His success was largely attributed to public support, as the audience cast numerous votes in his favor. Bones, who described himself as a “fish out of water” with little to no dance experience before joining DWTS, was astonished by his ultimate victory. His win not only surprised him but also sparked a significant backlash, with critics arguing that his dancing skills did not merit the trophy.
The Reaction from Judges and Fellow Contestants
Among those who voiced their concerns about Bones’ win was DWTS alum and judge Julianne Hough. She publicly stated that Bones was “not the best dancer” in the competition, highlighting that skill and artistry should weigh heavily in determining the champion. Nonetheless, Bones has taken the criticisms in stride, embracing the controversy that surrounds his win. He confidently refers to himself as the “greatest champion,” citing his ability to resonate with the audience as a significant factor in his success. His charm and relatability seemingly allowed him to sway voters, even in the face of technical limitations in his dance ability.
Changes in DWTS Voting Rules
The fallout from Bones’ victory prompted an examination of DWTS’s voting structure. In light of his controversial win, the program implemented changes aimed at ensuring that winners merit their titles based on a combination of public votes and judges’ scores. This shift aims to strike a balance between audience engagement and the artistry of dance, ensuring that participants possess a plethora of skills that warrant the coveted mirrorball trophy. Bones’ win may have altered the course of the competition, but it also highlights the unpredictable nature of reality television and audience influence.
Bobby Bones’ Journey Post-DWTS
Reflecting on his experience, Bones expressed gratitude for the opportunities presented during his time on DWTS. He found joy in the challenges and the artistic growth he experienced alongside Sharna Burgess. The friendships he cultivated within the dance community remain meaningful to him, and he continues to hold a deep respect for his partner and the art of dance. As the excitement builds for the upcoming Season 34, fans are eager to see which new celebrities will join the ranks of the competition and aim for the prestigious mirrorball trophy. Bones’ unique journey serves as a reminder that winning is not solely about technical skill but also about connecting with an audience.
The legacy of Bobby Bones on DWTS may have been marred in controversy, but his story continues to resonate with both fans of the show and aspiring dancers. As we look forward to new seasons and fresh talent, his narrative serves as a hallmark of the enduring unpredictability that makes “Dancing with the Stars” a beloved phenomenon in entertainment.
