Photo Credit: ABC/KELSEY McNEAL

Week 9: I Was Ready To Be Eliminated Last Week!

The former Broadway star takes Us behind the scenes of the hit ABC show

FINALE FEVER
I did not at all think I was going to [survive last week’s elimination]. I was ready to appear [as the eliminated dancer on] Jimmy Kimmel - I even did my hair! I was so shocked, then they called us first to go through. That was major!

AUDIENCE INSPIRATION
My “New York, New York” dance was my favorite so far. My dad was in the audience just crying. He is a true New Yorker there he was sitting just crying! That was awesome! [Former contestant] Lucy Lawless and Camryn Manheim have come out as well. I love having them around, and it’s a good time to show off and be like 'look at me.'

100th SHOW HOOPLA
It was fun to take a picture with all the other contestants I have watched for the past five seasons. I did a lift during the alumni photo! They didn't say I could not do a lift for that. [Laughs] I didn't get any advice from anyone, because the whole time I thought I was going home so I did not ask. I probably should have! I talked to Mel B a lot; she said I wasn't going home and she was right.

FAN FRENZY
My fans have been great! They are so supportive they are why I am doing this - I want people to go out and dance and feel sexy. I am happy that [my participation is] touching people. There are total naysayers out there who say I am too heavy to dance, but I want to prove them wrong!

BY MARISSA JARET WINOKUR