Derek Hough Predicts Connor Wood to Reach Season Finale
The Dancing With the Stars contestant sees strong scores as he eyes the season 35 finale following his latest routine.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Dancing
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Should audience popularity count more than technical skill in televised dance competitions?
Contestant Connor Wood and partner Rylee Arnold earned a score of 37 out of 40 for their contemporary dance during Horror Movie Night on season 35 of Dancing With the Stars. Following the performance, judge Derek Hough predicted that Wood will advance to the season finale.
Why it matters
High scores and consistent judge feedback are key indicators for contestants navigating the competitive season. Hough cites the duo's strong partnership and fan engagement as primary reasons for their potential to reach the show's final round.
The contestant team earned an official judge score of 37 out of 40 points during the latest contemporary routine. Whether this trajectory secures their place in the finale remains subject to upcoming viewer voting rounds.
The players
Connor Wood
A contestant currently competing on season 35 of Dancing With the Stars.
Rylee Arnold
A professional dancer and the partner of Connor Wood on the current season.
Derek Hough
A professional dancer and judge on Dancing With the Stars who evaluates participant performance.
The details
Contestants on the show perform choreographed routines that are evaluated by a panel of judges based on technique and artistic expression. The process relies on a combination of these expert scores and public votes to determine who moves forward each week. The partnership between professional dancers and celebrities is considered a critical component in executing complex movements and building the stage presence necessary to remain in the competition.
Timeline
November 2, 2026: The next episode of Dancing With the Stars airs.
November 24, 2026: The season 35 finale of Dancing With the Stars airs.
Health Landscape
The competitive dance circuit emphasizes physical coordination, endurance, and consistent artistic growth throughout the series. This development sits within the broader context of the show's established season-long elimination process.
Watching skilled dancers can inspire viewers to explore physical activities that build agility and coordination. If you are interested in starting a new dance practice, discuss your personal fitness goals and mobility needs with your physician first.
The takeaway
Consistent practice and strong team chemistry are essential factors in achieving high performance results. Viewers can monitor the upcoming episodes on November 2 and November 24 to see if these early expert projections align with final voting outcomes.
Further reading
For more on the benefits of recreational movement, visit United States Dancing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EW.
Live Poll
Should audience popularity count more than technical skill in televised dance competitions?
