The DWTS Scoring Controversy: What Guillermo Rodriguez’s Low Score Really Means

The premiere of Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) Season 35 has sent shockwaves through the ballroom, and not necessarily for the choreography. Fans and contestants alike were left stunned following the two-night premiere on September 15 and 16, where the judging panel seemed to have a sudden appetite for low scores.

A Historic Low for Guillermo Rodriguez

Among the most talked-about moments was the performance of Guillermo Rodriguez. In a result that left viewers reeling, Rodriguez earned a cumulative score of just 10—marking one of the lowest totals in the entire history of the competition. While his partner, Witney Carson, described the experience as feeling “lame,” the judges had a much more strategic perspective on the matter.

Derek Hough Defends the ‘Shock to the System’

Judge Derek Hough isn’t apologizing for the harsh critiques. In an exclusive conversation, the 41-year-old choreographer explained that the lower numbers are actually a strategic move to restore the value of the scoring system. According to Hough, giving out 3s and 4s early on creates a necessary baseline for growth.

“I think it’s changing the value of the numbers,” Hough stated. “Now when somebody gets an 8, it’s going to mean something. I think that that’s really important.”

Why Stricter Scoring Benefits the Show:

• Meaningful Progress: By starting low, the judges can clearly track a contestant’s improvement over the season.
• Accurate Placement: Hough argues that despite the low numbers, the relative rankings of the dancers remained accurate.
• Increased Stakes: High scores become a hard-won achievement rather than a participation trophy.

While the initial scores for dancers like Guillermo Rodriguez and Tatyana Ali (who scored a 12) felt insulting to some, Hough believes this “shock to the system” will ultimately make the journey more rewarding for the talented cast.

Beyond the Dance Floor: Derek Hough’s Newest Role

When he isn’t critiquing the footwork of celebrities, Derek Hough is embracing the most challenging role of his life: fatherhood. The star recently shared his excitement about his partnership with Huggies, celebrating the “firsts” he is experiencing with his 8-month-old daughter, Everley, whom he shares with wife Hayley Erbert.

Hough gushed about the transformative power of parenthood, noting that his life changed forever the moment Everley laughed for the first time. For Hough, partnering with an established brand like Huggies felt like a natural fit, allowing him to share the joys and struggles of early parenthood with other families.

For more details on the current standings and celebrity pairings, you can visit the official Dancing With the Stars page on ABC.

Want to see if Guillermo can bounce back? Dancing With the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+.