'DWTS' Premiere Recap, Results, Performances: Sean Lowe Debuts Dance Skills

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Monday, March 18, 2013

"Dancing with the Stars" season 16 has kicked off with a bang as the new cast hit the dance floor for the first time Monday night.

While the cast was previously announced, viewers had the chance to get to know a little more about each celebrity as well as preview their dancing skills.

Famous for having just finished up on ABC's television series "The Bachelor," Sean Lowe was among the most anticipated dancers of the night. Unfortunately, his crowd appeal did not save him from the judge's panel.

"It lacked finesse, your dancing needs to be refined," said "DWTS" Len Goodman.

Lowe and his partner Peta Murgatroyd earned a total of 19 out of 30 in the first week.

In the audience, Lowe's fiancée Catherine cheered the bachelor on and even cringed at the judge's harsh comments.

Also popular with audience members was the performance by country music star Kellie Pickler and her professional dance partner Derek Hough. The pair earned a total of 21 points.

Another popular contestant on Twitter and the youngest contestant to ever appear on "DWTS," Disney actress Zendaya earned some of the night's top scores.

"Superb debut on 'Dancing with the Stars,'" said judge Bruno Tonioli. Zendaya and her partner Val Chmerkovski earned a total of 24 points.

Remaining contestants and their scores include Victor Ortiz who danced with professional dancer and "DWTS" newcomer Lindsay Arnold for a total of 18 points- tying them with reality television star Lisa Vanderpump and her partner Gleb Savchenko.

Next, Dorothy Hamill and pro dancer Tristan MacManus tied with Aly Raisman and Mark Ballas, both couples earning 21 out of 30 points.

Wynonna Judd and "DWTS" longtime pro Tony Dovoloni earned a total of 18 points. Family members, including Wynonna's sister, actress Ashley Judd, cheered from the audience.

Meanwhile, actor Ingo Rademacher and Kym Johnson earned 20 points, tying them with NFL star Jacoby Jones and his partner Karina Smirnoff.

Lastly, Andy Dick and pro dancer Shara Burgerss earned 17 points, and comedian D.L. Hughes and famed dancer Cheryl Burke earned a mere 12 points.

Next Tuesday March 26 marks the first round of eliminations on this season of "DWTS." Fans are voting for their favorite contestants via texts, calls, and Facebook, and in combination with the judge's scores, one couple is headed home next week.