The latest episode of “Dancing with the Stars” brought high drama, dazzling routines, and a few surprises on Disney Night. While several performances impressed, one hauntingly elegant dance had fans questioning the judges’ scores.

On October 7, 2025, week four of season 34 aired with a Disney theme to celebrate Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary. The 11 remaining couples performed styles like Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Jazz, Salsa, Quickstep, and Viennese Waltz to Disney-inspired songs.

Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy delivered a standout Viennese Waltz to Lana Del Rey’s “Once Upon a Dream” from Maleficent. Dressed as Maleficent and Diaval, they danced on a dark, moody stage. Fans called it “insane,” “mesmerizing,” and “the best dance of the season,” though many felt the couple was “robbed” by the judges’ scores. Derek Hough called it “spellbinding,” while Bruno Tonioli described it as “gripping” and praised Earle’s acting. They tied for the top score of 24 out of 30.

Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas topped the leaderboard with 25 points for their Broadway-style Foxtrot. At the bottom were Scott Hoying, Danielle Fishel, and Andy Richter, with Richter ultimately eliminated alongside Baldwin and Fishel.

Earlier in the season, fans were already divided over eliminations. Two couples were unexpectedly cut in late September, sparking frustration when Hilaria Baldwin advanced despite controversy over her prior ballroom experience. Some viewers declared they were “done watching,” while others defended her dancing.

Season 34 began with Robert Irwin’s show-stopping jive on premiere night, which earned rave reviews and set the bar high. Meanwhile, Corey Feldman’s tango drew harsh criticism online, with many predicting his early exit.