Dancing with the Stars Season 21 began with fanfare on ABC news. Performing stars on the show were "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Kim Zolciak, "Braxton Family Values" star Tamar Braxton, jockey Victor Espinoza, Afghanistan veteran Alek Skarlato, Gary Busey, Bindi Irwin, Nick Carter, Hayes Grier, Paula Deen, Alexa and Carlos PenaVega, Chaka Khan and Andy Grammar, said The Wrap. The cast for ABC's popular reality competition was revealed earlier on Wednesday on "Good Morning America."
Chef Paula Deen, French train hero Alek Skarlatos were revealed on the morning show but other members of the cast were already named prior to the GMA show, said New York Daily.
Bindi Irvin, daughter of late "Crocodile Hunter" star Steve Irwin, stole the show with her bubbly performance on a jive routine. She was paired with fan favourite, Derek Hough, who managed to keep his partner firmly grounded on the dance floor. She also remembered her father during the show, highlighting his showmanship and positive attitude.
Another impressive performance came from Nick Carter and pro Sharna Burgess (Cha-Cha). Earlier on the show, Nick was on his nerves but later as he got comfortable his performances was a pleasure to watch.
One of the least impressive performances was from Kim Zolciak-Biermann and pro Tony Dovolani. On the other hand, Chaka Khan and pro Keo Motsepe scored the lowest scores on their Cha-cha performance. It was termed as a half-hearted routine by the judges. Alek Skarlatos, the National Guardsman, was expected to be one of the least impressive performers. However, he turned out to be incredibly graceful and elegant in his performance and complemented his partner Lindsay in every turn, said TV Line.
Controversial Gary Busey partnered with Anna Trebunskaya. He was described as "a bit rough" by his partner but the actor charmed the judges and landed in the top group.