Jenna Johnson and Harry Shum Jr. Accept Carrie Ann Inaba's DWTS Feedback
Jenna Johnson and Harry Shum Jr. addressed Carrie Ann Inaba's criticism about a lift in their Oct. 13 Dancing With the Stars samba. Johnson said they would accept the judges' feedback, while Shum defended their halftime-show-style routine. The pair received a score of 33 out of 40.
During the Oct. 13 "Super Bowl Night" episode, Johnson and Shum performed a samba to Usher's "Yeah!" and earned 33 of 40 points. Inaba objected to a lift, then read the rule: a lift occurs when one dancer has both feet off the floor simultaneously with the partner's help or support.
Johnson said she hears the judges and accepts their feedback, adding she wants to go far with Shum because he deserves to remain. Shum said their assignment was a one-minute, 12-second halftime-style routine; he felt they took a risk by making it explosive while still including samba, and he remained proud.
This exchange could fuel viewer debate over how strictly technical ballroom rules should apply to high-energy TV performances. Fans of Johnson and Shum may rally behind them, while judges' consistency and authority may face added scrutiny. The moment may also influence the couple's momentum, though their score and Hough's supportive remarks could soften any backlash. It may remain a pop-culture talking point rather than a broad societal change.