In a heartfelt episode of “Dancing with the Stars” that aired on Tuesday night, contestants honored late icons Heath Ledger and James Avery, evoking an emotional atmosphere in the ballroom.
The evening featured tribute dances, a tradition on the reality series that often leads to poignant displays of remembrance from the participants. This season, actors Julia Stiles and Tatyana Ali took center stage with performances dedicated to their late colleagues, each sharing personal reflections on the impact of Ledger and Avery.
Julia Stiles’ Tribute to Heath Ledger
Julia Stiles reminisced about her collaboration with Heath Ledger during the filming of the 1999 romantic comedy “10 Things I Hate About You.” Ledger’s portrayal of Patrick Verona made him a beloved figure among young audiences, a role that remains iconic. Stiles tearfully reflected on Ledger’s genuine nature during filming, recalling the ease with which they worked together.
Teaming up with her partner, Ezra Sosa, Stiles performed a contemporary dance routine set to a cover of Frankie Valli’s classic “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” This choice paid homage to a memorable scene in their film where Ledger’s character serenades her.
“I have so many great memories, but I’m also sad, because I really wish that I could pick up the phone and be like: ‘Hey, dude, people really care about that movie. We did something special,’” Stiles expressed, acknowledging the lasting legacy of their work together.
Prior to the performance, Stiles and Sosa shared their intent through an Instagram post, stating that their dance was a tribute to “a film that changed so many lives, and someone whose impact continues to be felt by generations.” The performance culminated with Stiles laying a rose in front of a photo of Ledger, followed by the entrance of the original cast members from “10 Things I Hate About You,” including Andrew Keegan, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik, Susan May Pratt, and Gabrielle Union, who joined her on the dance floor.
Judge Derek Hough praised the emotional impact of the moment, stating, “I mean, how cool is it to have created something that will last forever, you know? And tonight, this performance will last forever, as well. It was a perfect combination of joy, fun, and emotion.” Stiles received an impressive score of 36, marking her best performance to date on the show.
Tatyana Ali’s Dedication to James Avery
In another significant tribute, Tatyana Ali and Alfonso Ribeiro choreographed a dance in memory of James Avery, who famously portrayed Uncle Phil in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Avery passed away in 2013 due to complications from open-heart surgery, leaving a lasting legacy behind.
Ahead of the episode, Ali shared a heartfelt TikTok video highlighting Avery’s mentorship throughout her childhood. “I met him when I was 11 years old,” Ali recalled, noting how Avery would gift her baby dolls that represented her, to instill confidence in her self-image.
Ali and Ribeiro, alongside her partner Jan Ravnik, performed a Viennese waltz to Nancy Wilson’s song “(You Don’t Know) How Glad I Am,” recognizing the artist as one of Avery’s favorites. The poignant dance concluded with Ali sharing a touching embrace with Ribeiro, framed by a portrait of Avery, drawing tears from the audience.
Remarking on his experience, Ribeiro stated he considered it a blessing to partake in this tribute with Ali. The judges rewarded their heartfelt performance with a total score of 32, Ali’s highest of the season. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba expressed her appreciation for witnessing the connection between the two, remarking on the significance of dance in their tribute.
Overall, the episode of “Dancing with the Stars” resonated deeply, blending dance with personal storytelling and commemorating the legacies of two talented actors who made a significant impact on their peers and fans alike.
