'World of Dance': Derek Hough says no to Maddy, fans are shocked he didn't like her 'exceptional performance'
Derek Hough has always been appreciated on the 'World of Dance' for being a fair and objective judge. He pays close attention to the technical aspects of the movements, understands the nuances involved and judges all dance forms without any biases. But on the latest episode of 'World of Dance', even the fan-favorite judge had a slip-up moment that left viewers slamming him.
The final qualifiers round featured none other than the two-time winner Youth America Grand Prix — Madison Penney aka Maddy Penney. The famous ballet dancer came on the show to showcase her incredible contemporary ballet dancing skills and bust the myths associated with the dance form. After performing a jaw-dropping contemporary ballet routine to Noah Cyrus's 'Lonely', the 16-year-old dancer looked at the judges with high hopes for their feedback. While the judges praised her for her bold dance moves, they weren't too sure about how she would fit in the competition. So, Ne-Yo decided to give her a call back option while Jennifer Lopez decided to give a yes. It was finally Derek's turn and he decided to pass on Maddie and told her a no. Although Maddie eventually made it to the duels round, when Ne-Yo decided to change his mind and give Maddie a yes, fans weren't happy with Derek.
Several fans expressed surprise and disappointment with Derek's judgment. A fan tweeted, "Did Derek actually say 'no' to Maddy? What the heck? she was amazing #WorldOfDance." Another fan wrote, "Can't believe Derek said no. She's incredible and (if you didn't know), she's literally a YAGP winner and is considered to be one of the best ballerinas of her age in the world!" One more unhappy fan said, "What is going on this season? She is a world class dancer. There should have been no question about her moving forward. And a no from Derek?! I loved the last seasons of this show, but this year has been disappointing so far." Another fan shared, "Wow! I never been disappointed in Derek at all until now. She definitely doesn't deserve a no. I'm so glad she made it through." One pointed out, "Wow! This performance should’ve gotten all 3 yesssss! I’m disappointed in Derek. I thought he’d definitely notice how exceptional Maddie was. I don’t know what they didn’t see but I saw her emotions and her lines were amazing!"
'World of Dance' Season 4 airs every Tuesday at 10/9c only on ABC.