Who Went Home on Dancing With the Stars Tonight? Week 9 Elimination Recap

The 20th anniversary episode of “Dancing With the Stars” 2025 was filled with nostalgia, emotion, and perfect scores — but it ended with one couple leaving the ballroom. On Tuesday night, November 11, seven couples competed in week 9 as the ABC hit celebrated two decades of dancing history.

Guest judge Tom Bergeron returned to the panel for the first time since his 2020 exit, joining Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, and Carrie Ann Inaba. The episode honored the late Len Goodman and featured a touching tribute dance by pros Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold to “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga.

Dancing With the Stars Week 9: Scores and Highlights

The competition opened with a vibrant group number choreographed by Derek Hough and performed by current and former pros. Each couple then danced routines inspired by iconic performances from past seasons. Several contestants delivered near-flawless routines — four couples even scored perfect 40s.

Robert Irwin and Witney Carson earned the night’s first perfect score for their emotional foxtrot dedicated to Bindi and Steve Irwin. Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach followed with a 40 for their intense Argentine Tango, while Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy achieved the same for their elegant Foxtrot to “Singin’ in the Rain.” Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas closed the night with their own perfect 40 for an Argentine Tango to “Cell Block Tango.”

Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten scored 36, Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa landed 37, and Andy Richter and Emma Slater earned 29. These scores were combined with live viewer votes to determine who advanced to next week’s semifinals.

Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas brought a magnetic energy to that Argentine Tango! DWTS official X page.

Week 9 Elimination Result

After combining judges’ scores and public votes, Andy Richter and Emma Slater were eliminated from the competition. Despite improving each week and delivering an upbeat Quickstep to “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” Richter’s journey came to an end just shy of the semifinals.

The remaining couples — Robert & Witney, Dylan & Daniella, Alix & Val, Whitney & Mark, Jordan & Ezra, and Elaine & Alan — will advance to the semifinals, which will air next week during the special “Prince Night” episode.

Emotional Moments and Reactions

Fans online praised the emotional tribute to Len Goodman, calling it one of the most touching DWTS moments in years. Prince William’s surprise Zoom cameo during Robert Irwin’s rehearsal also lit up social media, adding a royal touch to the evening. Bergeron’s return and his heartfelt reflections reminded longtime fans of DWTS’s legacy and enduring appeal.

“Dancing With the Stars” continues to prove why it remains one of television’s most enduring competitions — blending nostalgia, star power, and storytelling on the dance floor.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who went home on Dancing With the Stars tonight?

Andy Richter and Emma Slater were eliminated on November 11, 2025, following week 9’s performances.

Q2: Who got a perfect score on Dancing With the Stars this week?

Robert Irwin, Dylan Efron, Alix Earle, and Whitney Leavitt each earned perfect 40s from the judges.

Q3: Did Prince William really appear on DWTS?

Yes, Prince William appeared via Zoom to support Robert Irwin during rehearsals, surprising both Robert and Witney Carson.

Q4: What episode was Tom Bergeron on?

Tom Bergeron returned as a guest judge for the 20th anniversary special on November 11, 2025.

Q5: When are the DWTS semifinals?

The semifinals of “Dancing With the Stars” season 34 will air next week on ABC during “Prince Night.”