On September 17, actor Eric Roberts, famous for films like Star 80 and Runaway Train, kicked off the Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars alongside pro dancer Britt Stewart. They mesmerized the audience with their performance set to Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock and Roll.”
The judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough, all scored him a 5, totaling 15 out of 30. Hough lightheartedly commented, “It was a bit like assembling IKEA furniture—some parts fit nicely, while others were a puzzle to figure out.”
Inaba provided some thoughtful feedback, saying, “My score might not be stellar, but you truly are a star.” Afterward, Roberts humorously stated, “We rehearse for about four hours, and let me tell you, Britt really puts me through my paces. She’s constantly pushing me to improve!”
Reflecting on his performance, Roberts confessed, “I missed a couple of steps, which threw me off completely.” However, he expressed that he’s overcome his fears about dancing on live TV, despite having previously critiqued performers on the show. “I used to think, ‘I can do that,’ but now I realize they’re probably thinking the same about me.”
Stewart chimed in on their rigorous practice, describing it as a “grueling process.” She noted, “Eric jumped in without any dance experience, which is what Dancing with the Stars is all about—teaching those new to dance.”
While enjoying the experience immensely, Roberts admitted the physical toll has been significant. “After four hours of dancing, my lower back says ‘hello!’” he joked. “Getting older definitely changes the perspective on those things.”
When asked about his competition, Roberts maintained a light-hearted perspective. “I’m just here to have fun with Britt. I’m not concerned about winning; I’m enjoying the journey and watching other talented couples.”
Stewart reflected on her own journey, saying, “It’s my fifth season as a pro but my tenth overall on Dancing with the Stars. I love collaborating with different partners and learning from each dance journey.” Last season, she made history as the first Black female professional dancer on the show.
She continued, “Every partner brings a unique experience, and it’s exciting to adapt choreography to fit their style. Learning how to connect with someone like Eric has been a rewarding challenge.”