Giveaway Controversy: Mark Ballas & Whitney Leavitt Face DWTS Backlash Before Halloween Night Performance

Ahead of their high-energy Halloween Night routine on “Dancing with the Stars,” Mark Ballas and Whitney Leavitt found themselves caught in a social media storm. The pair faced criticism after hosting an unapproved giveaway on TikTok that promised fans tickets and accommodations to a live taping of the show. Producers quickly intervened, citing a violation of official contest and audience participation rules.

The incident, which spread rapidly across fan forums and entertainment outlets, briefly overshadowed their much-anticipated “Brain Stew” performance to Green Day’s grunge anthem. The giveaway—intended as a thank-you to loyal supporters—was seen by some as a misstep that could have impacted the show’s fairness policies. However, Ballas and Leavitt responded swiftly, removing the post and apologizing to fans within hours.

DWTS Producers Step In as Fans React to the Giveaway

According to Us Weekly, “Dancing with the Stars” producers reached out to the duo soon after the giveaway went viral. The pair was informed that such promotions must receive prior approval due to legal and production restrictions surrounding audience access. In a follow-up statement, Leavitt explained that the intent was purely to “give back” and not to breach any official rules.

“We just wanted to do something fun for the fans,” Leavitt told Extra. “As soon as we found out it wasn’t allowed, we took it down. We never meant to cause confusion.”

Fan reaction was mixed. While some criticized the pair for overlooking show policies, others praised their accountability and quick response. Social media users commended them for handling the misunderstanding professionally rather than letting it spiral into bigger controversy.

Ballas & Leavitt Regain Focus with Strong Halloween Performance

Despite the brief distraction, Ballas and Leavitt quickly returned to rehearsals and delivered one of their most impressive routines of the season. Performing to “Brain Stew,” the duo brought grungy intensity and theatrical flair to the ballroom. Their sharp choreography and fearless energy earned them a score of 37 out of 40, restoring their position among the season’s frontrunners.

Viewers applauded their resilience, noting that they turned a week of controversy into one of their strongest performances yet. “They handled it like pros and then absolutely crushed the dance,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). Judges also noted their chemistry and emotional precision, calling the performance “darkly brilliant.”

Whitney Leavitt on Balancing Reality TV and Competition

Outside of DWTS, Leavitt continues to appear in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, where she recently wrapped filming for season three. In an interview with ExtraTV, she described the experience of juggling two demanding projects as “intense but fulfilling.” She teased that their Halloween performance was “a little out there,” adding that it blended “two contrasting vibes in a weirdly perfect way.”

Leavitt also revealed that she feels “more like herself” this season, noting that being past her postpartum phase has helped her rediscover her confidence and creative drive.

While the Giveaway Controversy momentarily distracted from their DWTS journey, Mark Ballas and Whitney Leavitt’s quick accountability and standout Halloween performance reaffirmed why they remain one of the show’s strongest and most dynamic pairs.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was the Giveaway Controversy involving Mark Ballas and Whitney Leavitt?

They hosted a TikTok contest promising fans DWTS tickets and hotel stays, which violated production rules on audience promotions.

Q2: How did producers respond to the giveaway?

Producers informed the duo the contest wasn’t permitted. Ballas and Leavitt quickly deleted the post and apologized publicly.

Q3: Did the Giveaway Controversy affect their performance?

No. They still performed to Green Day’s “Brain Stew” and scored 37 out of 40 on Halloween Night.

Q4: How have fans reacted?

Fans were divided—some criticized the oversight, while others supported their transparency and fast resolution.

Q5: What’s next for Mark Ballas and Whitney Leavitt?

The duo remains in the competition and is preparing for the next themed episode of “Dancing with the Stars.”