‘Dancing with the Stars’ 20 spotlight: Will Patti LaBelle hit the right notes?
We’ll start this “Dancing with the Stars” spotlight article first and foremost by singing the praises of the legendary Patti LaBelle. To us, it is obvious that she is the most famous person on this season. She has been a part of the music industry for around half a century, and performed with various groups all over the world.
Of course, how much will all of this experience really help her in the ballroom? Probably not much, other than at least providing some sort of evidence that she knows how to present herself in front of an audience. She is not going to be the strongest dancer this season. She’s going to have to rely mostly on entertainment, her story, and also her fan following to pull her through.
Name – Patti LaBelle
Age – 70 years old. She is the oldest contestant this season.
Claim to Fame – She’s behind such hits as the original “Lady Marmalade,” “Kiss Away the Pain,” “If You Asked Me To,” and other hits. She’s also done some acting, including a brief stint on “American Horror Story: Freak Show” this past fall before Dandy Mott killed her character.
Partner – Artem Chigvintstv. He’s still fairly new to the show, but worked last season with Lea Thompson.
Strengths – She’s a genuine star, and there will be many older viewers (this show naturally skews old) who will be inclined to want to root for her throughout the season. For at least the first week or two, her name recognition will pull her through.
Weaknesses – She’s 70 years old, and while she may have rhythm, her body is just not going to be able to move the same way as someone who is a third her age. She has to make up for a lack of athleticism in other ways. Also, this show requires long hours, and this may wear on her more come week four or five than it would many younger competitors.
Prediction – Patti will be fun to watch in a “living legend” sort of way, especially since this is something so new to her. We feel like she’ll be able to make it past the first exit or two just because of who she is, but after that, things are going to get tricky. If she turns out to be a decent dancer, her ceiling is probably around top five.
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