Ilona Maher Shines on Dancing With the Stars

During the Oscars-themed episode of 'Dancing with the Stars', Olympic rugby medalist Ilona Maher impressed audiences and judges alike with her salsa performance alongside pro partner Alan Bersten. The duo danced to '(I've Had) The Time of My Life', featuring a twist on the iconic 'Dirty Dancing' lift, where Maher not only executed traditional lifts but also lifted Bersten, challenging conventional gender roles in dance. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba praised Maher's performance as a significant contribution to the conversation around femininity, awarding them a score of 21 out of 30. Social media was ablaze with fans expressing their admiration for Maher's strength and charisma, highlighting her as a reason to watch the show. Maher's journey from a tight initial performance in week one to a dynamic and confident routine showcased her growth in the competition. The performance secured her safety from elimination, ensuring fans will see more of her unique style in upcoming episodes.