Television March 21, 2007
‘Dancing’ Pros Transform A-Listers into ‘Dancing Stars’
Only the sexy, seasoned professionals on “Dancing with the Stars” have what it takes to turn celebrities into dancers, and “Extra's” own Tanika Ray went for a spin behind the scenes at the Los Angeles Theater with Heather Mills' dance partner, Jonathan Roberts.
Jonathan, who is in his early 30's and happily married, revealed that his innovative dance moves with has come in handy this season as he tangos with Ms. Mills.
“I just happen to be really creative in my choreographer,” he said. “Sometimes the leg is great and we do it perfectly. And then she goes to the next one and the leg gives out. “
But there's no giving out or up, however, for former “Extra” anchor Leeza Gibbons and her partner Tony Dovolani, who steamed up the big screen in “Shall We Dance?”
“You know, if she is hurting she is a trooper. She will never tell me,” Tony dished.
Meanwhile, Ian Ziering is proving to his two-time dance champ Cheryl Burke that he's in this competition to win it.
“I mean, this guy gets frustrated. He needs to stop beating himself up,” Cheryl joked.
The gorgeous Karina Smirnoff, 29, was right on Cheryl's winning heels last season coming in second with “Extra's” weekend co-host Mario Lopez.
And now the five time U.S. National Champion is going for the gold with country singer Billy Ray Cyrus… even if it means using tough love.
“Everyone says I'm a drill sergeant, what's up with that?” she joked.
And red-hot Kym Johnson, who once made a splash performing at Elton John's 50th birthday party, is swinging with Joey Fatone… and early reviews indicate they are the couple to beat, despite aching feet.
“He's been complaining his feet are sore,” Kym said. “He doesn't like the big heels.”
But qualms aside, Kym told “Extra” his strength is “his personality. I think he can be quite a contender.”
Watch the competition continue to heat up next Monday on ABC!