A Warm Welcome Back on Ballando
Barbara D’Urso returned to television for the first time in two years, stepping onto the Ballando con le stelle dance floor in a highly anticipated comeback. The moment was charged with history, as the host has long been at odds with Selvaggia Lucarelli, one of the show’s most outspoken jurors. The crowd greeted her return with a standing ovation, a sign of the public’s appetite for the familiar energy she brings to prime-time entertainment.
After her opening routine, D’Urso lightened the mood with a joke, saying she felt “like the first day of school” as she re-entered the studio. The line drew smiles from the audience and set a playful tone for what would be a night of strong performances and candid critiques.
Judges in the Spotlight
The judging panel delivered a spectrum of responses, balancing praise with constructive notes. Carolyn Smith lauded D’Urso for dancing with genuine professionalism, while noting that there was still room to refine technique. Ivan Zazzaroni highlighted the emotional charge of the performance and declared it impeccably delivered. Fabio Canino kept a measured stance, reminding viewers that ovations on a dancing show don’t always mirror reality: D’Urso is talented, but not yet at her peak. Guillermo Mariotto adopted a more provocative tone, tipping his hat with a suggestive compliment that sparked a few amused reactions from the audience.
The Lucarelli Moment: A Whisper and a Verdict
The episode’s most talked-about moment came during Selvaggia Lucarelli’s final assessment. The juror opened with a pointed comparison between Milly Carlucci’s seasoned professionalism and D’Urso’s own approach, provoking a whispered “vaffa…” from the host as the tension hovered in the air. Lucarelli proceeded to strike a balance in her verdict, praising the show’s clever storytelling and D’Urso’s grace while cautioning about the demands of more complex choreography ahead. She suggested the comedian-turned-host could ease off some facial expressions—noting that her distinctive manner remains a recognizable trademark, but one that might need dialing back at times. Overall, the verdict was mixed: admiration for poise and stage presence, tempered by a strategic warning about future rounds.
What This Means for Ballando
D’Urso’s return injects nostalgia and a dash of drama into Ballando con le stelle, a format built on showmanship and sharp judge commentary. The standing ovation signals strong audience support, while Lucarelli’s measured critique keeps the competition compelling without tipping into personal vitriol. If the premiere is any indicator, the season promises lively dynamics between a familiar face, a skeptical yet respectful panel, and a studio audience eager for both elegance and edge.
Looking Ahead
As the season unfolds, D’Urso’s ability to navigate tougher choreography and respond to on-air feedback will be closely watched. For fans, the episode offers a sunny yet spicy kickoff: a beloved TV figure back in action, a debate-ready jury, and the ongoing intrigue around the long-standing dynamic with Lucarelli. The show has set a high bar for entertainment and performance in this new chapter.
