In the Dancing With the Stars season 33 finale on November 26, 2024, tensions flared over judge Derek Hough’s scoring of gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik and his partner, Rylee Arnold. While the pair’s performance, a Quick Step, was lauded by Carrie Ann Inaba as their best yet, Hough’s score of nine points sparked frustration among fans, who believed the score was unfair given the quality of their routine. Viewers criticized Hough for being overly critical and not awarding them a perfect score, with some claiming his bias against Nedoroscik had been evident throughout the season.
Despite these criticisms, Nedoroscik and Arnold were celebrated for their improvement, positive energy, and captivating performances. Their strong partnership and dedication were highlighted by fans, many of whom voiced their support and hope for a win. Arnold’s emotional tribute to Nedoroscik and his appreciative response underscored their mutual admiration and growth over the season.
The finale featured all five finalist couples, with each reflecting on their most memorable moments. Meanwhile, fans continued to show enthusiasm for Nedoroscik and Arnold’s journey, stressing that their achievements were a testament to their hard work and resilience. Overall, while some saw their efforts as deserving of a win, others felt that certain contestants had advantages due to prior dance experience.
