Dancing with the Stars: Season 12, Episode 4 - Episode 4 (2012)

In "Dancing with the Stars" Season 12, Episode 4, the episode begins with a lively introduction from hosts Tom Bergeron and Brooke Burke, who set the stage for the night's performances. The theme for this episode is "The Most Memorable Year," where each celebrity dancer will perform a routine that reflects a significant year in their lives. The atmosphere is charged with excitement as the audience anticipates the emotional stories behind each performance.

The first couple to take the stage is Ralph Macchio and his partner Karina Smirnoff. They perform a passionate tango that represents Ralph's most memorable year, 1984, when he starred in "The Karate Kid." The dance is filled with sharp movements and intense expressions, showcasing Ralph's growth as a dancer. The judges, including Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, and Carrie Ann Inaba, praise Ralph for his improvement and emotional connection to the dance, awarding them a score of 24 out of 30.

Next up is Chris Jericho and his partner Cheryl Burke. They choose to represent the year 2008, the year Chris became a world champion wrestler. Their performance is a lively jive, filled with energy and charisma. The judges commend Chris for his entertaining style but note that he needs to work on his technique. They score him 21 out of 30, which reflects a mix of enthusiasm and room for improvement.

Following Chris, Kendra Wilkinson and her partner Louis van Amstel take the floor. Kendra's most memorable year is 2009, the year she became a mother. Their emotional waltz is heartfelt, and Kendra expresses her vulnerability through the dance. The judges appreciate her effort and emotional depth, giving them a score of 23 out of 30, which leaves Kendra feeling proud yet aware of her need to refine her skills.

The next performance features Petra Nemcova and her partner Dmitry Chaplin. Petra's memorable year is 2004, the year she survived the tsunami in Thailand. Their contemporary dance is poignant and powerful, reflecting her journey of resilience. The judges are moved by the story and the execution, awarding them a score of 26 out of 30, which boosts Petra's confidence significantly.

As the night progresses, the audience is treated to a performance by Romeo and his partner Chelsie Hightower. Romeo's most memorable year is 2009, the year he released his first album. Their hip-hop-inspired routine is fun and energetic, showcasing Romeo's personality. The judges enjoy the performance but suggest he needs to work on his footwork, giving them a score of 22 out of 30.

Next, the spotlight shines on Hines Ward and his partner Kym Johnson. Hines chooses to represent 2009, the year he won the Super Bowl. Their samba is vibrant and full of life, reflecting Hines' athletic background. The judges are impressed with his rhythm and technique, awarding them a high score of 28 out of 30, which places them among the top contenders of the night.

The final couple to perform is Kirstie Alley and her partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy. Kirstie's most memorable year is 2011, the year she decided to take control of her health and well-being. Their emotional foxtrot is filled with grace and elegance, and Kirstie pours her heart into the performance. The judges recognize her effort and improvement, giving them a score of 24 out of 30.

After all the performances, the judges deliberate and provide their feedback, highlighting the emotional connections and personal stories behind each dance. The tension builds as the results are announced. The couples with the lowest scores face the possibility of elimination. The audience holds its breath as the bottom two couples are revealed: Kendra and Louis, and Chris and Cheryl.

In a dramatic conclusion, the audience votes are tallied, and it is revealed that Kendra Wilkinson and Louis van Amstel are eliminated from the competition. Kendra expresses her disappointment but also gratitude for the experience, while Chris Jericho breathes a sigh of relief. The episode ends with a montage of the night's performances, leaving viewers excited for the next week's challenges and performances.

The judges had varied reactions to the performances in Episode 4. Len Goodman praised Ralph Macchio's Jive for its energy and precision, while Bruno Tonioli was enthusiastic about the creativity displayed. However, some performances received critiques for lack of connection or technical flaws, leading to a mix of scores.

In Episode 4 of Season 12, the contestants performed a variety of dance styles, including the Waltz, the Jive, and the Tango. Each couple showcased their unique interpretations of these dances, highlighting their individual strengths and styles.

In Episode 4, the celebrity who received the highest score was Ralph Macchio, who performed a Jive with his partner Karina Smirnoff. Their energetic performance impressed the judges and earned them a score of 27 out of 30.

During the results segment of Episode 4, the contestants exhibited a range of emotions, from anxiety to relief. As the results were announced, some couples were visibly nervous, while others celebrated their success. The tension was palpable, especially for those who were in the bottom two, leading to tears and expressions of support among the dancers.

In Episode 4, the couple eliminated was Kendra Wilkinson and her partner Louis van Amstel. Kendra expressed disappointment and sadness at being sent home, reflecting on her journey and the friendships she had formed. She thanked her partner and the experience, showing grace despite the emotional setback.