As the glitter of the disco ball sparkled across the “Dancing With the Stars” stage this past Tuesday, Ariana Madix, known for her charismatic presence on “Vanderpump Rules,” transformed into none other than the princess of pop, Britney Spears, for Music Video Night. Together with her dynamic partner, Pasha Pashkov, Ariana stepped into the dance floor spotlight with a look and energy that channeled Spears’ iconic “I’m a Slave 4 U” moment, complete with the sultry blonde locks and an outfit that paid homage to the pop icon’s memorable music video ensemble.
The duo’s cha-cha-cha not only showcased their impressive footwork but also wove in the legendary choreography from Spears’ performance, a move that had the audience roaring with excitement. Their electric connection and synchrony on the dance floor didn’t go unnoticed, as they secured the top score of the night — a whopping 37 out of 40, and yes, that included a perfect 10 from the ever-enthusiastic guest judge Paula Abdul!
But the night was far from over for Ariana and Pasha. They later joined forces with other celebrity-pro couples for a freestyle routine set to the Backstreet Boys’ classic hit “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” earning another impressive 37 out of 40. This double triumph brought their cumulative score to an astounding 74 out of 80, tying them at the top with competitors Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy.
Their stellar performance is a testament to the enduring influence of Britney Spears in pop culture and on music video artistry. After all, it was back in 2002 when Britney’s “I’m a Slave 4 U” seized the MTV Video Music Awards with three nominations and later saw the star honored with the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.
Ariana Madix, a self-proclaimed Britney aficionado, had expressed her desire for a Britney-themed night to Billboard’s Tetris Kelly, revealing her adoration for the track and her familiarity with its moves. But as every seasoned DWTS contestant knows, high scores are only half the battle. The night also served as a stark reminder of the show’s unpredictability as internet sensation Lele Pons bid farewell to the competition despite a strong score of 33 for her individual routine — proving that in the world of dance, much like the pop industry, nothing is certain until the final note is played.
As we anticipate next week’s performances, one thing is crystal clear: Ariana Madix’s dedication to capturing the spirit of Britney Spears not only rekindled memories of an era that left an indelible mark on the music scene but also showcased her star power on the dance floor. Fans and followers alike are eager to see how she continues to channel this energy as the competition dances forward. Stay tuned, and keep dancing!