As Dancing with the Stars Season 34 barrels into its third week, the ballroom buzz is all about votes—and none more so than for pro dancer Daniella Karagach and her partner, Dylan Efron. The TikTok Night episode on September 30 delivered jaw-dropping routines, but it also sent shockwaves with an unexpected elimination that left viewers scrambling to their phones. Indeed, the competition's intensity is ramping up, forcing fans to get savvy on how to keep favorites like Karagach in the mix.
Karagach, a seasoned pro known for her sharp choreography and that Emmy-nominated flair from her 2021 win with Iman Shumpert, paired with Efron for a lively samba to a viral track. Their score? A solid 28 out of 40, placing them mid-pack but safe—for now. However, the night's boot of a beloved contestant underscored the power of public votes, which account for half the decision after judges' tallies. Moreover, with only 12 couples left heading into Disney Night on October 7, every ballot counts.
Voting kicks off right after performances air on ABC, running until the next episode's start. Fans can text "DWTS" followed by the couple's number—Karagach and Efron are No. 8—to 21500, limited to five votes per method. Online, the ABC website or app allows up to 10 votes per platform, no account needed. It's straightforward, yet the system's quirks, like regional limits for texting, have tripped up some in past seasons. Still, Karagach's fans are turning out in force, buoyed by her history of elevating underdogs.
The real edge? Social media amplification. TikTok clips of Efron's earnest moves are racking up millions of views, translating to vote spikes. Yet, as eliminations grow fiercer, questions linger about whether star power alone can sustain momentum. Pro tip: Vote early and often during the window to avoid last-minute glitches.
In a season blending viral trends with classic ballroom, one wonders if voter fatigue will hit before the mirrorball trophy shines.