Top 6 prediction

So… here’s what I’ve decided.

I would like Phaedra and Dwight to be the next two out, and then any of the other 6 have a compelling argument to win— let me explain (in no particular order).

— Joey: seems to be the frontrunner right now. He is objectively the best of the men and second best to Chandler. He has an edge over her though because his skill was a surprise. Every week, I am so impressed with him. Though, I don’t think they’re giving him much of an arc or he’s even experiencing one. He’s kind of just getting better. He is not without personality but it’s also not vibrant I would say— Jenna is killing it with choreo so I think that some of his lack of expression goes unseen (and he’s naturally a smiler). I remember this bachelor season being kind of boring too because he was just a good steady guy.

— Chandler: all around the best, sorry Joey. Fun, fluid, light, beautiful. Her technique is miles above everyone else’s, but that’s to be expected and people hold her to a really high standard. I agree with and appreciate Sharna’s comments regarding everyone waiting for the moment of power to come through.

— Stephen: People don’t want to hear it, but he’s consistently/overall the third best. Has also steadily grown, but unlike Joey has gotten (necessary and true critique) that has slowed his growth down. Sometimes gets lost in the content, and a little bit of a victim to the poor song/dance combinations. Definitely has some things to refine, but I can’t see him not making top 3.

— Ilona: could take it home simply due to being the most relatable, lovable contestant. I think EVERYONE sees a little bit of themselves in her, and that is something that no one else this season quite has. Her dancing is not that good, but man is it hard not to root for her. She would be a very deserving People’s Champion.

— Jenn: constantly improving and has a fun, bubbly personality. She is vulnerable and embraces bobbles and arguably has the best on the floor chemistry with her partner. Her dancing is maybe weaker, but she has a good storyline, and I think she is likable like Ilona is (which I didn’t think I would say after seeing her on the bachelor— didn’t watch the bachelorette.)

— Danny: The season’s dark horse, truly. I think his jazz is going to continue his streak from last week. There is something lovable about him in his shyness. I’m not sure I have much to say about him, but I think he’d be a really deserving finalist and a win from him would be symbolic of his growth.

I love Dwight and Phaedra, but they were personality hires, and when you have 6 other contestants who are better and don’t only rely on their personalities, I think they’ll have to go.

I truly would be happy with a win from any other of the contestants because I think they all embody the spirit of the show in different ways.

Edit to add: thought this could be understood, but despite some of their weaknesses, I personally believe that any of the six are delivering solid enough dances to justify a win apart from their fanbase.