I have been a longtime fan of Julianne Hough and her journey on Dancing With The Stars. When the announcement came that she would return as a host alongside Alfonso Ribeiro, I was thrilled.
Julianne’s presence brings a kind of energy and enthusiasm to the show that few others can match. Together, she and Alfonso create a dynamic duo that makes each episode enjoyable and memorable.
Julianne has been a central part of Dancing With The Stars for many years, from her early days as a dancer to her current role as a host. Her contributions to the show—her choreography, memorable performances, and vibrant personality—have left a lasting impact on fans.
Yet, it seems that recently she has faced unwarranted criticism on social media. Despite her history with the show and her positive influence, some fans appear dissatisfied, and I believe she deserves much more appreciation.
Long-Standing Presence and Positive Energy
Julianne’s connection with Dancing With The Stars goes back many years. She started as one of the professionals, becoming known not only for her skills but also for her infectious energy. Week after week, she brought unforgettable performances to the stage, each one crafted with care and creativity.
Her dancing and choreography were always highlights of the show, drawing attention and admiration from fans and judges alike. Beyond her technical skills, it was her ability to emotionally connect with the audience that made her a fan favorite. Julianne’s joy and passion for dance were visible in every performance, and that sincerity resonated with viewers.
When she moved from dancing to hosting, she brought that same enthusiasm with her. Her positive energy lights up the screen, creating a welcoming and exciting atmosphere for viewers and contestants. Hosting is a different challenge, but Julianne embraced it wholeheartedly, bringing her authentic self to the role.
Her experience as a dancer allows her to relate to the stars and professionals on a personal level, creating connections that add depth to her interactions. This genuine engagement is one reason fans have loved her for so long, as she brings a personal touch that enhances the show’s atmosphere.
Still from Dancing with the Stars (Credit: ABC)
Facing Criticism: Concerns and Misunderstandings
However, it seems that recently, some fans of Dancing With The Stars have grown critical of Julianne’s hosting style. They claim she stumbles over her words, lacks “polish,” and doesn’t connect with the contestants and professionals as strongly as she should. I don’t agree with these criticisms at all. In fact, I see Julianne as the heart of Dancing With The Stars, a vital part of what makes the show special.
Criticism of her speaking style, especially when it comes to minor stumbles or moments of nervousness, feels unfair and out of place. Many fans seem focused on her occasional slips, arguing that they make her less suited for the role. But to me, these moments show her authenticity. They reveal a human side, and they’re a reminder that she, like everyone else, isn’t perfect.
Every host in television, regardless of experience or training, has moments where they trip over words or misspeak. It’s a natural part of live TV. Julianne isn’t the first, nor will she be the last. Even the show’s judges, like Derek Hough—her brother—and Carrie Ann Inaba, have their own moments of mispronunciation or occasional awkward phrasing.
Instead of allowing these moments to detract from their authority or presence, they’ve embraced them, often laughing at themselves and moving on. Julianne, too, handles these situations with grace, often brushing them off with a smile or laugh, which endears her to viewers even more. These slip-ups aren’t signs of weakness; rather, they show a genuine, unscripted side to her personality that many fans appreciate.
It’s disheartening to see fans suggesting that her minor stumbles should be grounds for removing her from the show. Holding her to such a high standard of “perfection” ignores the fact that hosting a live show involves many unpredictable moments.
Julianne’s occasional stutters or tongue-tied moments only serve to make her more relatable and down-to-earth. We all have moments where we don’t speak perfectly, and to expect Julianne to be immune to that is simply unrealistic.
The Call for Role Changes
Among the criticisms, some fans have suggested that Julianne and her co-host Alfonso should swap roles, arguing that Alfonso is a “better host.” I find this suggestion to be unfair and a misunderstanding of each host’s unique strengths. Alfonso reads from a screen during the show, which gives him a scripted advantage.
Julianne, on the other hand, interacts directly with each professional dancer and their partner after their performances. She engages with them, asks them questions, and reacts to their successes and struggles. This level of personal interaction sets her apart and gives the show a warm, personal touch.
The suggestion that they swap roles overlooks the fact that both hosts bring different qualities to the show. Alfonso’s style is polished and precise, but Julianne’s approach is grounded in empathy and connection.
She doesn’t simply read from a script; she actively engages with each contestant, offering them encouragement and celebrating their achievements.
By creating a space where contestants feel seen and supported, Julianne fosters an environment that allows the stars to feel comfortable and confident. She has the ability to make them feel special, which enhances their experience on the show.
Still from Dancing with the Stars (Credit: Disney)
The Emotional Connection Julianne Brings
One of Julianne’s greatest strengths as a host is her emotional connection with the contestants. She isn’t afraid to show her emotions, which makes her relatable to both the stars and the viewers. When Ilona Maher became frustrated and began to cry after a dance that didn’t meet her expectations, Julianne was the first to comfort her.
She approached Ilona, offering her a hug and genuine words of encouragement. Moments like this demonstrate Julianne’s empathy and her commitment to the contestants’ well-being. Her reactions show that she truly cares about each participant and is invested in their journey.
Similarly, when Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach received the first perfect score of the season, Julianne celebrated with them wholeheartedly. She jumped for joy, sharing in their excitement and letting them know that their hard work was recognized and appreciated.
Her presence in these moments isn’t simply that of a host; she becomes a part of the contestants’ journeys, supporting them emotionally and celebrating their achievements.
These gestures may seem small, but they have a significant impact on the contestants. Knowing that the host is genuinely invested in their success can be incredibly motivating, and Julianne’s support provides that encouragement.
Her interactions go beyond the typical role of a host, creating a bond that makes the show feel more like a family. This sense of connection is what makes Dancing With The Stars unique, and Julianne plays a significant role in fostering that atmosphere.
Timing and Humor: The Lighthearted Side of Julianne
Julianne also brings humor and a playful spirit to her role, which adds a lighthearted touch to the show. Her comedic timing, especially when interacting with her brother Derek, brings laughter and joy to viewers. Their sibling banter is a delightful addition, providing a sense of warmth and familiarity that makes the show feel welcoming.
Julianne’s humor adds a layer of enjoyment for the audience, as her genuine interactions and playful exchanges remind viewers that Dancing With The Stars is not just a competition but also a celebration of dance and connection.
Her humor is balanced with sensitivity, which is important in a show that involves intense emotions and high stakes for the contestants. Julianne knows when to joke and when to offer comfort, showing an understanding of each contestant’s needs. Her ability to shift between lighthearted moments and heartfelt support demonstrates her range as a host and makes her an asset to the show.
Still from Dancing with the Stars (Credit: Disney)
Why Julianne Deserves Continued Respect and Appreciation
Julianne Hough has earned her place on Dancing With The Stars. She is more than just a host; she is a mentor, a cheerleader, and a friend to the contestants. Her experience as a former dancer gives her unique insights into the challenges the contestants face, and her empathy allows her to connect with them on a personal level. Julianne’s passion for the show is evident, and she brings a sense of joy that resonates with viewers.
The criticisms she faces feel misplaced, especially when considering all that she contributes to the show. Her occasional stumbles don’t detract from her abilities as a host; rather, they make her relatable. In a world where perfection is often expected, Julianne reminds us that authenticity is far more valuable. Her imperfections make her real, and that authenticity is part of why fans have loved her for so long.
Julianne’s role on Dancing With The Stars isn’t just to read from a script or deliver flawless lines. Her purpose goes deeper; she is there to support, to celebrate, and to connect. She brings out the best in the contestants, offering them encouragement and showing them that they are valued. Her positive energy and genuine kindness make her an integral part of the show’s success.
Why Calls for Her Removal Are Misguided
The suggestion that Julianne should be removed from the show or that her role should be minimized feels unjust. Hosting a live show is challenging, and no host is immune to occasional mistakes. Julianne’s small missteps are minor in the grand scheme of her contributions.
Her ability to connect with the contestants and her willingness to show her true self are qualities that make her a beloved host. Removing her would be a loss not only to the contestants who benefit from her support but also to the viewers who appreciate her warmth and sincerity.
In a competitive show environment, having a host who genuinely cares about the contestants’ experiences is invaluable. Julianne’s compassion and empathy set her apart from other hosts, making her a unique and irreplaceable part of Dancing With The Stars. Her presence reminds viewers that the show is not just about scores and performances; it’s about the journeys, the connections, and the moments of joy and vulnerability that make each season memorable.
Still from Dancing With the Stars (Credit: Disney+)
Julianne’s Enduring Legacy on Dancing With The Stars
Julianne Hough has been part of Dancing With The Stars for years, and her impact on the show is undeniable. From her days as a professional dancer to her role as a host, she has contributed significantly to the show’s success.
Her passion, energy, and authenticity have endeared her to fans, and her presence adds a unique dimension to the show. She has created unforgettable moments, both on the dance floor and as a host, leaving a lasting legacy that fans will remember for years to come.
Julianne deserves respect for all that she has given to Dancing With The Stars. Her connection with the contestants, her humor, and her genuine kindness make her a beloved figure on the show. Fans may criticize her for minor slip-ups, but those moments only serve to make her more human.
Julianne’s authenticity is a rare quality in television, and it’s one of the reasons fans continue to support her. She is an essential part of the show, and her presence brings warmth and joy to each episode.
Julianne Hough is more than just a host on Dancing With The Stars; she is the heart of the show. Her empathy, humor, and genuine love for the contestants make her an irreplaceable part of the show’s success. She may not be perfect, but her imperfections make her real, and that authenticity is what fans love about her.
Julianne deserves respect and appreciation for all that she brings to the show. Her role is more than just reading lines; she is there to support, to connect, and to celebrate each contestant’s journey. For all these reasons, I will always defend Julianne Hough and her place on Dancing With The Stars.
Strange Harvest: Occult Murder in the Inland Empire expands on the typical horror narrative by creating a complex atmosphere that combines fear with reality. Stuart Ortiz uses techniques that make viewers feel they are watching real events, deepening the unease throughout the film.
The film’s pacing, structure, and detailed world-building give viewers an unsettling experience that blurs the line between fiction and reality. The disturbing scenes and realistic interviews don’t just frighten viewers but also immerse them in a world that feels alarmingly close to reality.
The main character, Leslie Sykes, or “Mr. Shiny,” is portrayed in a way that gives the illusion of authenticity. His character is inspired by classic horror figures but has unique qualities that make him memorable. The film reveals his disturbing obsession with leeches and a celestial entity he hopes to call upon through his cruel acts.
Mr. Shiny’s fascination with these elements adds layers to his character, making him more than just a stereotypical villain. He becomes a complex and terrifying figure whose actions are motivated by a twisted belief system. This not only intensifies the horror but also hints at a supernatural dimension, which elevates the fear factor as it suggests a force beyond human control.
Throughout the film, Ortiz ensures each scene adds to the tension and mystery surrounding Mr. Shiny. For instance, the interspersed footage and news reports contribute to a growing sense of dread, as they offer clues and look into the horrors that have taken place.
These pieces of information are presented strategically, allowing viewers to piece together the puzzle slowly. Ortiz does not bombard viewers with too much information at once, which helps maintain suspense and keeps the audience engaged. By spacing out the horror elements, he builds an atmosphere that feels both unpredictable and frightening.
Still from the movie (Adorable Damage)
Ortiz also goes to great lengths to make the setting feel authentic. The film’s locations, from gritty alleyways to abandoned buildings, are chosen carefully to reflect the dark themes of the story. Each location adds to the bleak and oppressive mood, making viewers feel as though they are walking through a place where evil has thrived.
Ortiz combines these settings with sound effects that enhance the horror. The eerie silence before a sudden noise or the faint, unsettling background sounds makes viewers feel as if they are hearing the sinister whispers of Mr. Shiny’s world. Every detail, from the lighting to the camera angles, is designed to heighten the terror.
The documentary style serves as a unique storytelling method, providing a fresh approach to horror. Interviews with various people, including detectives, survivors, and family members of the victims, give a sense of realism that traditional horror films often lack.
Ortiz has crafted each character to feel genuine. For instance, Detective Joe Kirby’s portrayal captures the frustration and desperation of a man haunted by an unsolved case, while survivor Glen Sandweiss’s scars serve as visual reminders of the trauma he has endured. Each character’s reactions and expressions are subtle yet powerful, conveying the pain and horror they have experienced without overacting.
One particularly disturbing aspect of Strange Harvest is the portrayal of Mr. Shiny’s brutal methods. His rituals are graphic and disturbing, intentionally crafted to shock viewers. The sacrificial altars, the symbols painted with blood, and the placement of severed heads in ritualistic formations show the extent of his depravity.
These scenes are reminiscent of extreme horror films but with a realistic edge that makes them even more horrifying. The acts feel deliberate and meticulously planned, emphasizing Mr. Shiny’s belief in the dark forces he seeks to summon.
Ortiz has a skill for combining disturbing imagery with subtle psychological horror. For example, while the gore is shocking, it is the underlying suggestion of Mr. Shiny’s connection to supernatural forces that creates lasting fear. The references to the 13th Zodiac sign, Ophiuchus, add a layer of mystique and hint at a cosmic alignment that drives Mr. Shiny’s horrific actions.
This aspect of the film taps into primal fears, suggesting that his actions are part of a larger, incomprehensible plan. It is not just a series of murders; it is a ritual meant to bring about something sinister and unstoppable.
The film’s pacing also contributes to its effectiveness. Ortiz balances the horror with slower moments that allow viewers to process what they have seen before the next shock. He uses these moments to find the emotional toll on the characters, showing how the murders have affected their lives.
By giving viewers a chance to connect with the characters’ pain, Ortiz deepens the horror, making each scene more impactful. While Strange Harvest succeeds in creating a haunting atmosphere, it occasionally struggles with genre clichés.
The documentary format includes some moments where the interview subjects deliver lines in a theatrical manner, which can break the illusion of realism. Lines like “…but it wasn’t over…” are intended to build suspense, but at times, they feel forced.
However, Ortiz compensates for these occasional missteps by keeping the horror grounded. Despite the scripted elements, the film remains effective in creating a disturbing and believable world.
Strange Harvest stands out as a horror film that goes beyond typical scares. Ortiz’s attention to detail and commitment to authenticity make it more than just a fictional story. It is a psychological tale of fear, trauma, and the dark forces that drive people to commit unspeakable acts.
By blending realistic horror with supernatural elements, Ortiz has crafted a film that feels deeply unsettling and profoundly terrifying. Strange Harvest expands the boundaries of horror by blending authenticity with an unsettling, almost mythical sense of dread.
Still from the movie (Adorable Damage)
Stuart Ortiz’s commitment to creating a world that mirrors reality leaves viewers questioning the line between fiction and true horror. The unsettling realism is intensified by Ortiz’s choice of mockumentary format, which brings viewers closer to Mr. Shiny’s world and invites them to experience the terror in a deeply personal way.
The film goes into the psyche of a murderer who isn’t just driven by bloodlust but by a disturbing belief system that enhances his horrific acts to a form of ritualistic worship. This eerie conviction adds a layer of psychological horror, making Mr. Shiny’s character both terrifying and complex.
Ortiz’s storytelling keeps the suspense alive, strategically revealing details that unravel Mr. Shiny’s twisted mind without overwhelming the audience. Each gruesome scene serves as a reminder of the dark powers he believes in, drawing viewers into a web of suspense and terror that feels all too plausible.
By infusing supernatural undertones with tangible, real-world settings, Ortiz not only delivers scares but also leaves a lasting impact. The eerie combination of psychological horror, authentic settings, and supernatural mystery makes Strange Harvest a haunting story of human fears—both seen and unseen.
Through masterful pacing, atmospheric tension, and an original storyline, Ortiz crafts a film that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying, offering audiences a profound experience that resonates long after the screen fades to black.
