DWTS Season 35 Week 4: Maura Higgins Sets Record, Ciara Miller Eliminated

Key points

• Ciara Miller and Brandon Armstrong were eliminated after scoring 21/30 for a jazz routine to 'Emotions.'
• Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas earned 25/30 for a waltz to 'If It's Over,' the highest score of the season.
• Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson scored 13/30 for a samba to 'Obsessed' but remained in the competition.
• Ezra Frech, Harry Shum Jr., and Jenna Dewan each earned 24/30, tying for the second-highest score.
• The episode featured a performance by 'Glee' star Amber Riley, who sang 'It's Like That' during Harry Shum Jr.'s routine.

Background

Season 35 began with a two-night premiere in September 2026, drawing 6.67 million viewers. The first elimination occurred on Night 1, followed by Sarah Jane Nader on Night 2. Week 2 saw the elimination of Giada De Laurentiis. Week 3, themed around Yacht Rock, resulted in the shock elimination of Taylor Hanson and Britt Stewart despite their strong scores. This week's Mariah Carey theme continued the pattern of competitive scoring and unpredictable outcomes.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter and USA Today both highlighted the surprise nature of Ciara Miller's elimination, noting her strong performance and high scores. Sports Illustrated Lifestyle emphasized the emotional moments, such as Tyler Cameron dedicating his dance to his late mother and Jenna Dewan's tearful reaction to positive feedback. USA Today also noted the 'Glee' reunion moment with Amber Riley. All sources agreed on the scores and the elimination, but differed in emphasis: THR focused on the competitive aspect, while SI and USA Today highlighted the emotional and nostalgic elements. The Yahoo source was not usable due to technical issues.

Why it matters

The episode demonstrated the unpredictable nature of DWTS, where strong performances do not guarantee survival due to the combination of judges' scores and viewer votes. The high scores and close competition indicate a strong field of contestants, while the eliminations of popular or well-performing couples suggest that viewer engagement and voting patterns play a significant role in determining outcomes. The season's competitive nature and emotional moments contribute to its popularity and cultural relevance.

What to watch

The next episode of 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 35 airs on October 13, 2026, on ABC and Disney+. The show will continue with new themes and performances, and the remaining contestants will face further eliminations. The DWTS tour for 2027 was announced, with presale tickets available starting October 8 and general sales on October 13.