‘DWTS’ Week 8 Recap & Spoilers: Rock & Roll Night Sees Electric Performances and One Elimination

“Dancing With the Stars” Season 34 turned up the volume for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Night on November 4, 2025. The ballroom was buzzing as the remaining couples performed to classic hits, including Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing” and Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer.” The night ended with one more couple being sent home after a fiery evening of routines and scores.

Guest judge Flavor Flav joined Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough on the judging panel, bringing his trademark energy and humor. From high-scoring Jives to emotional Contemporary numbers, Week 8 gave fans a mix of fun, fire, and a few surprises as the road to the semifinals tightened.

Rock & Roll Night Highlights on ‘DWTS’ Week 8

Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach opened the night with a lively Jive to “I’m Still Standing.” Efron showed off his confidence, teasing Bruno Tonioli and flashing his abs mid-routine. The crowd loved it, and even Flavor Flav couldn’t resist the energy. Judges praised the performance for its enthusiasm and sharp choreography, though Carrie Ann Inaba noted a few missed kicks. The couple earned 36 out of 40, with Flavor Flav giving his only 10 of the night.

Next, influencer Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy delivered a commanding Paso Doble to Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer.” Earle’s powerful stage presence impressed the judges, earning comments like “rock and roll goddess” from Derek Hough. She narrowly missed a perfect score, receiving 39 out of 40, and continued her streak as one of the strongest competitors of the season.

Comedian Andy Richter and Emma Slater slowed things down with a heartfelt Contemporary to “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys. Richter, who celebrated his birthday earlier in the week, received a touching response from the judges for his sincerity. While his technical ability lags behind the pack, the emotional storytelling won over the audience. He earned kind remarks and solid mid-range scores.

Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach

Flavor Flav Joins the Judges’ Table

The addition of Flavor Flav brought a fresh energy to the judging panel. His upbeat reactions and spontaneous praise balanced Bruno’s flamboyance and Derek’s technical focus. The guest judge even referenced his own musical background while cheering on contestants, making Week 8 one of the most entertaining judging nights of the season.

After all the performances, the leaderboard was tight. The team dance segment added another layer of competition before the results were revealed. As fans have seen all season, “DWTS” eliminations continue to deliver unexpected moments and emotional exits, leaving viewers anxious for the semifinals.

“DWTS” Week 8 proved that no contestant is safe, even with strong scores. As the competition moves closer to the finale, every performance, vote, and rhythm counts more than ever.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the theme for “DWTS” Week 8?

The theme was Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Night, celebrating legendary artists like Elton John, Bon Jovi, and The Beach Boys.

Q2: Who was the guest judge on “DWTS” this week?

Flavor Flav joined the judging panel, adding his own flair and humor to the evening.

Q3: Who earned the highest score on “DWTS” Week 8?

Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy earned the night’s highest score with 39 out of 40 for their Paso Doble.

Q4: What song did Dylan Efron dance to?

He danced a Jive to “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John, earning praise for his energy and charisma.

Q5: When will “DWTS” return for Week 9?

“Dancing With the Stars” Season 34 returns next Tuesday on ABC with another themed competition night.