Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy returned to the Dancing with the Stars ballroom this week with two high-profile routines during “Prince Night.” Their Argentine tango to “Little Red Corvette” earned one of the top scores of the evening. The pair’s second routine, a Viennese waltz to “Purple Rain,” is scheduled to air later in the episode. Their performance follows a week marked by emotional momentum and national attention stemming from a judging error involving Flavor Flav. The duo’s strong showing positions them firmly among the semifinal contenders.
What Happened on Prince Night
Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy opened the episode with a sharp, rhythm-driven Argentine tango set to Prince’s “Little Red Corvette.” Their routine featured fast footwork, tight musical timing, and controlled execution. The judging panel awarded the performance 28 out of 30, placing the pair among the leaders of the night.
Their second routine, a Viennese waltz performed to “Purple Rain,” showcases a significant tonal shift. The dance emphasizes Earle’s storytelling growth, emotional presence, and improved musicality. Her progression from the season premiere to Prince Night has consistently been noted by fans and analysts, with outlets such as Sports Illustrated highlighting her focus entering semifinals week.
This Prince Night appearance comes shortly after the pair earned their first perfect score of the season, a notable response to a widely discussed scoring mishap in the previous episode.
Reactions and Commentary
Following the judging controversy last week—when guest judge Flavor Flav accidentally pressed a “9” instead of a “10”—the pair received widespread public support. People reported that Flavor Flav clarified the mistake backstage and apologized directly to the dancers, stating he believed they fully deserved a perfect score.
Earle shared that the incident initially frustrated her but ultimately fueled her rehearsals. Analysts have praised her increased technical control and emotional engagement, while choreographer Val Chmerkovskiy has been credited for building routines that showcase her strengths. Viewers across social platforms also responded enthusiastically to her Prince Night styling and the intensity of their tango performance.
Impact on the DWTS Standings
The strong Argentine tango score reinforces Earle and Chmerkovskiy’s trajectory as contenders heading into the semifinals. Their consistent improvement, combined with their ability to perform well under pressure, has kept them firmly in the conversation for a place in the finals. With the competition narrowing, their Prince Night performances may prove pivotal in shaping their path toward the Mirrorball Trophy.
What’s Next
Their Viennese waltz to “Purple Rain” will air later in the episode and is expected to provide a contrasting emotional narrative. The upcoming semifinal round will determine whether the duo secures a position in the finale. Fans continue to monitor their progress closely, as Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy remain one of the season’s most-watched partnerships.
Sources
ESPN
People Magazine
Sports Illustrated
Variety
ABC / Dancing with the Stars Broadcast
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