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“Dancing with the Stars” (“DWTS”) turned up the heat during its fifth week, with unforgettable performances, unexpected reactions, and plenty of drama. But while some contestants celebrated major milestones, two moments in particular left viewers with a lot to say, and the social media reactions tell quite a story.

Super Bowl Night Brings Football Legends and Major Ballroom Moments

The ballroom traded its usual atmosphere for a football-inspired celebration on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, as “DWTS” Season 35 marked its first-ever Super Bowl Night.

Eleven celebrity-pro couples performed routines inspired by songs from legendary Super Bowl halftime shows, bringing a mix of athleticism, showmanship, and competitive energy to the dance floor. According to The Hollywood Reporter’s recap, the evening featured music associated with some of the biggest names in entertainment.

Among them were Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Usher, Nelly, J Balvin, Bad Bunny, and the Black Eyed Peas.

The themed episode also welcomed a familiar face from the football world. Joe Buck, the host of ABC’s “Monday Night Football,” joined Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli as Season 35’s first guest judge. Former NFL players and “DWTS” alumni Emmitt Smith, Donald Driver, DeMarcus Ware, and Danny Amendola also appeared during the celebration.

Smith and Driver had previously won the show’s third and 14th seasons, respectively, making their appearances a fitting addition to the festivities. However, Buck’s judging debut proved to be one of the evening’s most pleasant surprises.

Joe Buck Wins over Viewers with His Guest Judging

Although Buck is best known for his work in sports broadcasting, his appearance behind the judges’ desk quickly generated positive reactions from “DWTS” fans. On Reddit, one viewer enthusiastically praised the commentator’s performance, “I have to say that Joe Buck did a fantastic job as a guest judge tonight!”

Another Redditor appeared equally impressed, penning, “pleasantly surprised by football man’s judging tonight…lowkey he can stick around.” The enthusiastic responses suggested that Buck’s first appearance on the judging panel was a welcome addition for at least some fans.

And with four judges scoring each performance instead of the usual three, contestants had an opportunity to earn a maximum of 40 points.

Two Couples Make History at the Top of the Leaderboard

The competition got off to an impressive start when Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas performed a tango to Rihanna’s “Only Girl (In the World).” Their performance earned 33 out of 40 points, including three eights from the regular judges and a nine from Buck. However, their early lead did not last long.

Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov delivered a samba to J Balvin and Willy William’s “Mi Gente,” securing an impressive 34 out of 40. It was a significant moment for Glenn, who received her first nine of the season. In fact, she earned two nines during the performance, marking an exciting step forward in her ballroom journey.

Meanwhile, Julia Stiles and Ezra Sosa matched Higgins and Ballas’ score of 33 out of 40 with their jazz routine to Lopez’s “Jenny From the Block.”

Another couple also joined the 33-point club, although their performance would later lead to one of the night’s most talked-about exchanges. But before that disagreement took center stage, two other partnerships raised the bar even higher.

Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy performed a paso doble to Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance,” earning 36 out of 40 points. It was a historic moment for Season 35, marking the first time a couple had received nines from all four judges.

Their achievement was quickly matched by Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach, who delivered a salsa to Nelly’s “Hot in Herre.” The duo also earned 36 out of 40, leaving them tied with Dewan and Chmerkovskiy at the top of the leaderboard. Interestingly, Nelly had previously competed as Karagach’s first celebrity partner during Season 29, making the song choice a fitting callback to her history on the show.

With the competition becoming increasingly intense, the smallest details were beginning to matter more than ever. And that became especially apparent when one judge raised a concern about another couple’s choreography.

A Samba Performance Leads to an Unexpected On-Air Disagreement

One of Super Bowl Night’s most energetic routines came from “Glee” Actor Harry Shum Jr. and Professional Dancer Jenna Johnson. The pair performed a samba to Usher’s “Yeah!” featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris, earning 33 out of 40 points. Their number featured elaborate staging and an energetic presentation that impressed the judges, although not everyone agreed about its technical execution.

As Entertainment Weekly reported, Tonioli opened the critiques by praising the production value of the performance. “Who’s the leader of the pack on the main event? You really played it beautifully; it really felt like an event. It felt like one of those spectacular freestyles we’ve ever seen,” Tonioli marveled.

However, he also identified issues with the samba technique. “The samba, no heel leads, and you keep going back to — you were doing it at the beginning — over clipping it. So it loses the style but [sic] obviously the effect is spectacular. It should be a samba, my darling,” he continued.

Inaba agreed that the routine was entertaining, but she also believed it needed more traditional samba choreography. “If that was a halftime show, amazing, I loved every minute of it. But it’s a samba,” she remarked. As the audience began applauding, Inaba stopped them so she could finish her critique.

She then urged Johnson and Shum Jr. to “put more content into your dances.” However, the conversation took a noticeably different turn when the judge brought up another concern.

During her critique, Inaba claimed there had been “a lift” in the performance. Johnson appeared surprised by the allegation, responding with a brief but pointed question. “A lift?” she asked. Inaba then picked up a sheet of paper and read aloud the definition she was using to support her assessment.

According to the judge, a lift is “any movement during which one of the dancers has both feet off the floor at the same time with the assistance or support of their partner.” The exchange created an awkward moment in the ballroom. Shum Jr. appeared open-mouthed, while Johnson closed her eyes and nodded as Inaba explained her position.

The routine had included a moment in which two male troupe dancers lifted Shum Jr., but Johnson’s understanding of the rule was apparently different. She later explained that she believed the restriction applied to lifts involving dance partners performing together.

Despite the disagreement, Johnson acknowledged Inaba’s perspective. “Totally hear Carrie Ann,” she said, adding that she “totally” understood the judge’s comments. The brief confrontation did not go unnoticed by the other judges. “Dang,” Hough remarked, apparently attempting to ease the tension. “I felt like I got told off,” he added.

Inaba could also be heard saying, “I will meet you where you are.” Hough then shifted the conversation back toward the positive aspects of the performance. “That was undeniably a fantastic performance,” he said. “I hope everyone at home loves it. I know everybody in here loves it.”

He also addressed some of the technical concerns before encouraging Shum Jr. to continue improving. “But, for real, you are an amazing performer and an amazing dancer, and I hope to see you next week,” Hough concluded.

Buck rounded out the critiques with a compliment of his own, describing Shum Jr. as a “dual threat.” “I don’t know how you keep everything straight — your day job, what you’re doing here, effortless,” the guest judge told him. Although the conversation eventually moved on, the disagreement highlighted a familiar issue that has followed Inaba throughout multiple seasons.

Why Carrie Ann Inaba Has Long Been Called the ‘Lift Police’

For longtime viewers, Inaba’s attention to lifts is hardly a new development. As Newsweek explained in September 2020, the judge has become so closely associated with enforcing restrictions on lifts that fans have nicknamed her the “lift police.”

During the Season 29 premiere, for example, Inaba deducted a point from Vernon Davis and professional partner Peta Murgatroyd after identifying what she believed was an illegal lift in their foxtrot. The decision prompted some viewers to question why lifts appeared acceptable in certain performances but not in others.

In a 2017 Facebook post, Inaba had previously explained that lifts were prohibited in traditional ballroom and Latin dances but permitted in several other styles. Those allowing lifts include salsa, jazz, contemporary, Argentine tango, Charleston, and jitterbug.

However, the restrictions remain in place for dances such as samba, tango, waltz, foxtrot, and quickstep. Inaba also explained in a 2015 Parade blog that the distinction between a lift and another airborne movement depends partly on whether a dancer is being supported by their partner.

She defended the rule as a way of maintaining fairness for contestants of different ages and physical abilities. “I still agree with why we have the rule for the lifts, which was to keep the playing field level for the older and less physically strong contestants, so that all the dances didn’t just become show dances with lifts and tricks,” she wrote.

The longstanding debate helps explain why Johnson and Inaba’s brief exchange became such a noticeable moment during Super Bowl Night. Still, the judging controversy was not the only development that left viewers talking. By the end of the episode, another couple would be facing a much more emotional outcome.

A Look Back at the Eliminations That Led to Week 5

As ABC News documented in its Season 35 elimination roundup, several celebrity contestants had already left the ballroom before Super Bowl Night. The season began with a two-night premiere that immediately sent two couples home.

On September 15, Conner Leavitt and professional partner Adele Zaikman were eliminated after performing a salsa to Tag Team’s “Whoomp! (There It Is).” The following night, September 16, Sarah Jane Nader and Hailey Bills were sent home after dancing a jive to Avril Lavigne’s “Sk8er Boi.”

Week 2, known as Viral Hits Night, brought another elimination. On September 22, Giada De Laurentiis and Alan Bersten exited the competition after performing a salsa to Becky G’s “Bella Ciao.”

During Yacht Rock Night on September 29, Taylor Hanson and Britt Stewart were eliminated following their foxtrot to the Doobie Brothers’ “What a Fool Believes.” Then came Week 4, which celebrated the music of Mariah Carey.

The October 6 episode saw Ciara Miller and Brandon Armstrong leave after performing a jazz routine to Carey’s “Emotions.” Their departure was considered surprising, particularly as the season’s competition was reaching new levels.

That same evening, Higgins and Ballas had earned the season’s first nine, bringing their score to 25 out of 30 — the highest total at that point. By Week 5, the stakes were even higher, with 11 couples hoping to secure another week in the ballroom. However, one partnership’s journey was about to end.

The Week 5 Elimination Leaves Viewers Divided

As Super Bowl Night drew to a close, the results revealed that Guillermo Rodriguez and his professional partner, Witney Carson, had been eliminated. The “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” personality and Carson had performed a salsa to Bad Bunny’s “Tití Me Preguntó.”

Their routine earned 22 out of 40 points, placing them at the bottom of the judges’ leaderboard. However, contestants are not eliminated on scores alone. The show’s results are determined by combining judges’ scores with viewer votes, meaning audience support also plays a crucial role in deciding who stays.

Despite the disappointing result, Rodriguez remained positive as he reflected on his experience. “I had a lot of fun, it was great. Witney, thank you for teaching me how to dance!” he said following his elimination. His departure also marked the end of a particularly significant season for Carson.

Witney Carson’s Historic Season Comes to an End

Carson entered Season 35 having already made “DWTS” history. In August, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that she would become the first professional dancer to begin a full season while knowingly pregnant. Although Carson had danced while pregnant before, including during Season 31, this marked the first time she entered a season already aware that she was expecting.

The two-time Mirrorball Trophy winner, who shares two sons with her husband, Carson McAllister, was determined to balance her career with her growing family. “I love dance. I love to compete. I love being on the show, and I also love being a mom, and I want to grow my family,” Carson explained.

“So if I can do both and the baby is healthy, then I am going to try and do it all, because women are amazing,” she added.

Carson had previously won Season 19 alongside Alfonso Ribeiro in 2014 and secured another victory with Robert Irwin during Season 34. Her decision to return while expecting made her partnership with Rodriguez especially noteworthy.

And it was not lost on viewers that she had continued delivering demanding choreography throughout the competition. In fact, one fan’s reaction to the couple’s latest performance specifically highlighted Carson’s pregnancy. But not everyone agreed about whether the pair deserved to stay.

Social Media Reacts to Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson’s Elimination

Following their departure, fans flooded an Instagram post with reactions, revealing just how divided viewers are over the couple’s exit. Some praised Rodriguez’s determination and personality, while others openly celebrated the elimination. One spectator appeared particularly moved by his efforts, commenting, “HES TRYING SO HARD IDC I LOVE HIM SM [sic].”

Another Instagram user raised questions about how the judges had treated different contestants, “connor got no compliments and guillermo got zero critiques. I’m so tired [sic].” For some supporters, Rodriguez’s departure came much too early. One fan wrote, “Gone to [sic] soon💔,” while another drew attention to Carson’s demanding choreography while expecting a baby: “That flip and pregnant.”

Meanwhile, someone else expressed disappointment at seeing the partnership leave the competition, “You didn’t deserve to leave. Come back. My favorite💔💔💔💔.” However, not everyone shared that sentiment. One commenter seemed delighted by the outcome, exclaiming, “Thank you lord [sic]!!! He was finally voted off!!!!!!”

The contrasting reactions made one thing clear: Rodriguez’s time on the show had sparked strong opinions. And a few fans suggested that his departure might affect whether they continued watching the season at all. One wrote, “YOU SENT GUILLERMO HOME! SO NO MORE DWTS THIS SEASON FOR ME! 😮😢😮.”

Another viewer encouraged the eliminated partnership to focus on the progress they had made: “Best dance and improvement so far! Proud of you Guillermo and Witney! ❤️ ignore the noice and celebrate a difficult experience done with positive energy [sic].”

For at least one Instagram user, Rodriguez was apparently the biggest draw of the competition. That person simply commented, “Only reason I watched.” The reactions ranged from disappointment and admiration to outright relief, reflecting the passionate audience that continues to follow the ballroom competition.

Who Remains in the Competition After Week 5?

With Rodriguez and Carson eliminated, ten celebrity-pro partnerships remain in contention for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. The final Week 5 leaderboard placed Dewan and Chmerkovskiy alongside Frech and Karagach at the top, with both couples earning 36 out of 40.

Glenn and Pashkov followed with 34 out of 40. Higgins and Ballas, Stiles and Sosa, and Shum Jr. and Johnson each finished with 33 out of 40. Jackson Olson and Emma Slater received 31 out of 40, while Tyler Cameron and Sharna Burgess earned 30 out of 40. Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik secured 29 out of 40, followed by Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold with 25 out of 40.

Rodriguez and Carson rounded out the evening’s leaderboard with 22 out of 40. As the competition continues, each couple will need to balance technical precision, entertainment value, and audience support to avoid becoming the next eliminated partnership.

Viewers can cast up to ten votes per couple through each voting method, using ABC’s website or text messaging. Voting takes place during the live East Coast broadcast and closes shortly after the final performance. For West Coast audiences, that means voting between 5 p.m. PT and approximately 6:45 p.m. PT, rather than waiting for the local broadcast.

What’s Next for ‘DWTS’ Season 35?

The October 13 episode also delivered another announcement for viewers looking ahead. Co-host Ribeiro revealed that former Professional Dancer Kym Johnson will join the judging panel for the following week’s Dedication Night. Her upcoming appearance promises another fresh perspective as the remaining couples prepare for their next performances.

“DWTS” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available the following day on Hulu. But with one couple’s departure dividing viewers and an on-air disagreement reigniting questions about the show’s long-standing judging rules, Super Bowl Night gave fans plenty to discuss.

Back in the ’90s, he was a fan favorite, captivating audiences with his striking looks and unforgettable role on an iconic TV series. The popular prime-time show became a cultural phenomenon, thanks in part to his character’s blend of charm and dramatic flair.

But while the years may have added a bit of silver to his hair and a rugged edge to his look, this former heartthrob remains as charismatic as ever. Take a look at his transformation over the years, from a youthful actor to a silver fox.

1992

Known for his undeniable presence, this star captured the hearts of many during the 1990s as one of the defining faces of “Melrose Place.” He played Dr. Michael Mancini, the charismatic yet womanizing and morally ambiguous doctor who often found himself entangled in scandalous affairs and high-stakes drama.

Over the years, this heartthrob stayed in the industry, though his appearance shifted significantly from his days as a fresh-faced star on the small screen.

1993

In 1993, the “Melrose Place” star took a significant step in his personal life by marrying Elizabeth Pryor. Pryor, a talented and accomplished actress herself, shared a love for the arts with her new husband, and together, they appeared as a dynamic couple in the entertainment world.

However, the actor’s personal life took a different turn as he and Pryor decided to part ways years later. As a couple, they welcomed three children, Conner, Augie, and Luca, and despite the separation, his role as a father remained a constant.

The “Melrose Place” star revealed that his kids didn’t consider him a celebrity, noting, “They grow up in an entertainment community here, so they’re surrounded by a ton of actors 15 times more famous than their dad. I think to them, it’s not unusual.”

Over the years, this ’90s heartthrob has appeared in “Glee,” “NCIS,” and “Castle.” However, his children did show a sliver of interest when he starred in the short-lived “Melrose” reboot.

“My daughter says she’s seen some of the new one. [My kids] got a particular thrill when they saw me on the actual billboards,” the actor revealed.

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2022

In 2022, the former “Melrose Place” star embarked on a new chapter in his personal life, tying the knot with a beautiful, blonde-haired woman named Lisa, his new love.

2023

2024

In 2024, Thomas Calabro continued to impress fans with his age-defying good looks. Though time added a bit of ruggedness to his appearance, he was still undeniably captivating, showing that he has gracefully embraced his years.

More than two decades after rising to fame on “Melrose Place,” the actor made an appearance on a podcast in October, drawing attention from fans and social media users alike.

Despite the years that had passed since his television heyday, many were quick to comment that he still looked great, with his enduring appeal and charm shining through. “I always thought he is an attractive guy [sic]!” one social media person commented.

Another added, “You all look amazing,” and a third typed, “Well look who showed up!!! My favorite male Melrose Character!!!” Another person shared, “Still handsome!”

Reflecting on his iconic role as Dr. Michael Mancini on “Melrose Place,” Calabro gave the public some interesting insight into the filming of the show’s steamy love scenes and commented on how the series’ tone shifted dramatically when Heather Locklear joined in 1993.

Locklear, who portrayed the powerful and scheming Amanda Woodward, brought a heightened level of drama to the series. Calabro noted on a podcast appearance that “Melrose Place,” transformed from being “kinda soap opera-ish” to “over the edge,” embracing wild storylines that defined the ’90s cult classic.

Over the years, the ’90s hunk has reflected on his time on “Melrose Place” and described filming as an absolute joy.

“It was just so much fun. Going to work was always a pleasure. It was such a great community and cast and crew. Everybody was having a ball. I always appreciate [being recognized]. It’s symbolic of my impact on the television community,” he said.

The show gained momentum as new characters like Amanda Woodward, Sydney Andrews, Dr. Kimberly Shaw, and Dr. Peter Burns joined the storyline, turning it into an iconic prime-time sensation.

Even now at 67, Calabro remains a captivating figure, with fans still admiring both his looks and his legacy. From his unforgettable role on “Melrose Place” to his recent milestones, the actor’s journey reflects a career — and a life — filled with growth, memorable moments, and timeless appeal.

Haskins died Sunday night, September 27, 2026, at an assisted living facility in Burbank, California, according to his longtime friend and caretaker Kimberly Snow, who confirmed his death to the Los Angeles Times. He was 75. His cause of death has not been disclosed.

The Man Behind Mr. Belding

For millions of viewers, however, Haskins will forever be associated with Bayside High School and the exasperated principal who repeatedly found himself trying to keep Zack Morris and his friends out of trouble.

His signature line — “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” — became one of the character’s defining moments as Haskins played the well-meaning but frequently overwhelmed Principal Richard Belding.

The role began with Good Morning, Miss Bliss, which aired on the Disney Channel in 1988, before the series was reworked as Saved by the Bell and moved to NBC the following year, according to his University of Tennessee at Chattanooga biography.

Haskins remained the one adult constant as the franchise expanded, returning as Belding for Saved by the Bell: The College Years and Saved by the Bell: The New Class. He continued playing the character until 2000.

His agent Jay Schachter remembered him not simply as the man behind Mr. Belding, but as someone who remained deeply connected to the people who watched him.

“It’s a tragic loss. Everyone loved Mr. Belding, and those of us who got to know Dennis loved him even more. He was a great person, and he loved, I mean absolutely LOVED his fans,” he tells TMZ. Schachter added, “He always had time for them, no matter what. He was my client and dear friend for over 20 years, and I will miss him terribly.”

Long Before Bayside, Haskins Was Building a Career

Haskins was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on November 18, 1950, and attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Notre Dame High School, and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

Before television made him famous, he was already immersed in entertainment. According to his IMDb biography, Haskins worked as a music manager, agent, and concert promoter, with Tom Jones and Gregg Allman among the performers connected to his work.

At UTC, he was similarly active. He reported for the student newspaper, acted with the Drama Club and Harlequins, served as entertainment chairman of the Student Government Association, and belonged to the Blue Key Honor Fraternity and Raven’s Society.

He also helped found the Harlequins community theater group, where he acted, worked as a stage manager, and wrote original plays. As SGA entertainment chairman, Haskins organized movies and concerts and even helped bring Ike and Tina Turner to UTC on April 7, 1973. His involvement with the university did not end when his acting career took off.

He Finally Got the Degree He Left Behind

In December 2015, at age 65, Haskins returned to UTC for a milestone that had been decades in the making: he finally earned his bachelor’s degree in theater. The university noted that Haskins had already completed the academic credits necessary for the degree, having left college years earlier just short of graduation.

“As successful as some have said I’ve been, from the incredible success of ‘Saved by the Bell,’ other quality acting roles, the books I’ve written, and even UTC Distinguished Alumni in 2000, there’s always been something missing for me—my college degree,” Haskins said, according to UTC’s 2015 commencement announcement.

He also reflected on the decision to return and finish what he had started. “For reasons long past, I left just short of my liberal arts degree in theater. Over the years I’ve thought about and even pursued finishing that degree,” said Haskins.

“Now, with the forward-thinking policies of this great university that I love so much that have benefited many other graduates, I join these graduates in holding my head high, having earned my liberal arts degree in theater from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga! Go Chattanooga! And Go Mocs!”

The achievement came during another notable year for Haskins. He had reportedly lost 70 pounds in 2015.

His Public Life Slowly Went Quiet

The change became increasingly noticeable in Haskins’ final years. According to a 2026 retrospective on the “Saved by the Bell” cast, Haskins was absent from the 2020 Peacock reboot of the franchise and never publicly explained why.

He had also stopped posting on social media several years earlier. Back in January 2020, Chattanooga broadcaster David Carroll had one of his final conversations with Haskins.

Carroll later recalled in a September 28 tribute that he had passed along a request for an interview, only for Haskins to firmly decline. “That’s not gonna happen.”

When Carroll expressed surprise, Haskins reportedly made clear that he did not want to discuss it. After that, Carroll said Haskins stopped responding to calls and texts from his Chattanooga friends for years.

The change was especially striking because Haskins had once been a familiar presence in his hometown. Carroll remembered him as someone who would return during the holidays, visit old friends and make time for local events.

The Health Battle He Chose Not to Discuss

Now, the reason for some of that distance has become clearer. Snow revealed after his death that Haskins had been privately battling Parkinson’s disease for approximately eight years, along with other health concerns.

She explained that he had deliberately chosen not to make the illness public because he did not want the attention that would come with having to explain his condition.

“About eight years ago, he became ill. He had been silent about his fight with Parkinson’s, among other health concerns, because he did not want the attention. He did not want to have to tell people.”

Snow said Haskins would wonder what he was supposed to tell people about what he was going through. “What do I even say?” Rather than speak publicly about his illness, Haskins entrusted Snow with helping him through what she described as “the next chapter of his life.”

“So I respected his wishes and stayed quiet, and I helped him through his journey into the next chapter of his life.”

His Final Hours Held an Unexpected Connection to an Old Friend

Haskins died at approximately 11 p.m. Sunday at the Burbank assisted living facility, according to Snow. She was there for his final goodbye. And after leaving his room, she encountered a detail that made the moment even more poignant.

Snow wrote that she had gone across the hall to sign paperwork after saying her final goodbyes. When she looked up, she realized the room where Haskins had spent his final moments had been provided as a gift from the Mario Lopez Golf Classic — a charity event connected to his former “Saved by the Bell” co-star.

“After I said my final goodbyes to him last night, I was across the hall signing some paperwork. I looked up and saw that the room he had been in was a gift from the Mario Lopez Golf Classic, and somehow, that made me feel a little better.”

It was an unexpected final link to the show that had defined so much of Haskins’ life. The actor had spent years playing Principal Belding alongside Lopez’s Zack Morris, the student who routinely tested his patience. In the end, a charitable event associated with Lopez had helped provide the very room where Haskins spent his final chapter.

The Place Where Fans Knew Him Best

Away from Hollywood, Haskins became closely associated with Dimples Karaoke in Burbank. The karaoke establishment eventually closed, but its connection to Haskins remained strong enough that many patrons mistakenly believed he actually owned the place.

Snow explained in an Instagram tribute that Haskins was simply a regular who loved the venue and the people there. “Dennis was a staple at Dimples. A lot of people thought he owned it, but he didn’t. He just loved the place and its people. He enjoyed singing for people, meeting them, and taking selfies with his fans.”

“Dimples closed down about 11 years ago, and people still associate him with his beloved ‘second home.’ He was known to most as Mr. Belding from ‘Saved by the Bell,’ but to us, he was much more than that.”

A Life His Friends Say Was Much Bigger Than One Role

Although Haskins will forever be remembered as Mr. Belding, his career stretched far beyond Bayside High. He appeared in The Twilight Zone, Magnum, P.I., It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Mad Men, How I Met Your Mother, New Girl, and A Million Ways to Die in the West, among numerous other productions.

He also released a karaoke album in 2009 titled Karaoke With Your Favorite Principal Dennis, featuring songs including “Piano Man” and a version of “Mustang Sally” performed with Brooke Hogan.

His Chattanooga connections remained particularly important to him. Carroll recalled that Haskins regularly visited his hometown and even made trips to Children’s Hospital, where he would pose for photographs and sign autographs for children.

In a 2014 account, Carroll wrote that Haskins was “always approachable” and genuinely grateful for the fame and friendships his career had brought him. That affection appears to have been mutual.

The Friends Who Knew Him Beyond Mr. Belding

Following Haskins’ death, tributes began appearing from friends who knew him away from the television set. One friend, Jake Infusino, remembered in an Instagram tribute reposted on Dimples Karaoke’s Instagram Story that he and Haskins had once met for dinner every month to discuss life and the entertainment industry.

“Dennis and I would meet up for dinner once a month to talk about life, the industry, and everything in between. He was an enigmatic figure, entertainer, and someone I grew up watching before school.”

Infusino added, “I hadn’t seen him at all since COVID, and to hear that he was privately battling is so sad. @kimberlylasnow is a saint! Hard to believe so many @dimpleskaraoke legends are no longer with us. Life is short, and we’re not guaranteed another season.” He ended his tribute simply, “Rest in peace, Dennis.”

Another friend, Eric Cacioppo, who worked at Dimples, remembered Haskins as someone who would come in nightly to sing. In a tribute shared on Instagram, Cacioppo recalled their friendship, their conversations about professional wrestling and the headshots Haskins allowed him to take.

“I just found out my friend Dennis Haskins (bka Mr. Belding) passed away today at age 75. He had been privately sick for many years. I was lucky enough to call Dennis [a] friend. I worked at Dimples Karaoke in Burbank ca [sic] for a few years, and he came in nightly to sing. Over the years, we grew close.”

“We talked pro wrestling. He let me take his headshots over the years. The man even came to my wedding. I have missed my friend for years now, but it still hits hard that he is gone. I’m sure I will share more stories of him soon, but for now, this is how I will always remember him. Singing on the Dimples stage, entertaining the people. I love you, Dennis. Rest easy.”

Another Instagram Story shared by the Dimples Karaoke account featured the simple message, “Rest easy, my friend. 🕊️” Another tribute recalled the regular dinners, conversations, and memories shared with Haskins over the years. For those who knew him at Dimples, the memories were often less about Hollywood and more about a man standing on a karaoke stage, singing for the people around him.

Snow ended her tribute by reflecting on the life Haskins had lived and the privacy he had fought to maintain until the end. “Late last night, that journey ended for him. He is now at peace and is probably entertaining the people in the sky. Just know that if you tried to reach out to him in the last few years, I did read your messages to him, and you were heard.”

Then came a final sentiment that perhaps best captures how his friends remember him, “What a cool and amazing life he had. Rest in peace, Dennis. You were very much loved and will never be forgotten.”

Before he became McSteamy, Eric Dane was just a kid from San Francisco chasing a dream, unaware of the highs, heartbreaks, and final chapter that would redefine how the world saw him. Scroll through 30+ photos as we revisit the moments that shaped the man behind the legend.

San Francisco Beginnings

Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane’s life was marked by early tragedy, a loss that would quietly shape how he loved, worked, and later fought for his own family. His father died from a gunshot wound when he was seven years old, according to reports from People.

The outlet also reported that during an interview with another publication in 2014, Dane talked about his father, saying, “He was a Navy man and ended up becoming an architect and interior designer. He was a troubled soul.” That loss, he later admitted, felt even more “devastating” once he became a father himself.

The Accidental Actor and A Dream

Dane didn’t plan to act. He was a high school water polo player who auditioned for “All My Sons” on a whim. “I was a water polo player in high school and my season was short, and I ended up getting roped into playing Joe Keller in All My Sons. Dead serious. And I fell in love with it. I was, like, this is the greatest feeling ever!”

And just like that, a career was born, one that would skyrocket faster than he ever imagined, and test him in ways no script could prepare him for. After graduation, Dane moved to Los Angeles with “40 bucks in my pocket,” he told People.

“I ended up partying for the next eight years. I got into a lot of trouble.” Still, he hustled, landing guest roles on shows like “Saved by the Bell,” “The Wonder Years,” “Roseanne,” and “Married… with Children.” He later landed a recurring role on “Gideon’s Crossing” before appearing in two seasons of “Charmed.” His feature film debut came with 2000’s “The Basket.”

The Break That Changed Everything

When Dane joined “Grey’s Anatomy” in 2006 as Dr. Mark Sloan, aka McSteamy, fans lost their minds, and overnight, Dane wasn’t just an actor anymore. He was an image, a fantasy, a headline.

The role was initially small, but the fan reaction was explosive. His character’s sensual storylines and undeniable charisma turned Dane into an overnight sex symbol.

In an interview reported by People, the actor said, “It just kind of made sense,” about embracing that image. “I felt like I had an artistic obligation to not shy away from that part of the character.” But he also admitted, “I love that character; I just didn’t want to play that guy for the rest of my life.” In 2012, Mark Sloan was killed off.

A Sudden Exit

In an episode of Dax Shepard’s podcast, “Armchair Expert,” reported by People, Dane clarified, “I didn’t leave so much as I think I was let go.” He explained he had become “very expensive” for the network, and he was also “struggling” with addiction at the time.

“I wasn’t the same guy they had hired, so I had understood when I was let go, and [show creator] Shonda [Rhimes] was really great,” he said.

Marriage and Fatherhood

Dane married actress Rebecca Gayheart in 2004. They welcomed daughters Billie Dane in 2010 and Georgia Dane in 2011. “I never had a family, and now I do,” Dane told People. “I know I’m a very lucky guy.”

However, Gayheart filed for divorce in 2018. “After 14 years together, we have decided that ending our marriage is the best decision for our family,” Dane said in a statement to People.

“We will continue our friendship and work as a team to co-parent our two beautiful girls as they are the most important thing in the world to us. We kindly ask that you respect our privacy during this time as we navigate the next phase of our lives.”

Even after their divorce, both remained committed co-parents. “We are best of friends. We are really close. We are great coparents,” Gayheart told E! News. “We really figured out the formula to staying a family and I think our kids are benefiting greatly from it and we are as well.”

She added, “I think it’s important to not look at a relationship that ends as a failure. It’s just a season. It wasn’t a failure. It was a huge success. We were married for, I mean, we are still married, but together for 15 years and we had two beautiful kids so I think that’s a successful relationship, and that’s how we look at it [sic].”

Scandal, Survival, and Reinventing Himself

In 2009, an intimate video of Dane, Gayheart, and another woman was leaked without their knowledge. In 2014, Dane reflected, “We’ve all made mistakes. My one regret is that I got the person I love most wrapped up in all that: Rebecca.”

From starring in “The Last Ship” to playing the deeply complex Cal Jacobs on “Euphoria,” the actor proved he was more than McSteamy. He wanted darker roles, complicated men, stories that stretched him. And fans followed.

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Just when it seemed he had found a new creative rhythm, life delivered a blow no one saw coming. In 2025, Dane revealed to People that he had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). “I have been diagnosed with ALS,” he shared. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter.”

“I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week,” he added. Behind the scenes, the reality was devastating. Gayheart later wrote in The Cut, “I was in my closet the day I heard those three letters: ALS […] When he told me that day, he just started weeping, as did I.”

Love in His Final Chapter

After Dane went public with his diagnosis, the actor was back in the headlines for another reason: his relationship status, after he was spotted on a date with filmmaker and photographer Janell Shirtcliff at the Chateau Marmont on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Shirtcliff also owns a ranch.

Dane was in an on-and-off relationship with Shirtcliff for more than three years. A source told Entertainment Now, “The two have been in an on-and-off relationship for over three years and care deeply for each other. Eric asked Janell to be there for him during this time, and she wanted to show up for him.”

His Final Months

In her essay in The Cut, Gayheart also described their final year together with heartbreaking honesty. “We wanna take advantage of the time that he has right now,” she wrote. “He made it very clear that he wants to spend time with his family as much as possible, and I am committed to facilitating that.”

McSteamy had 24/7 nurses. Insurance battles. Friends stepping in to help.

“So I had to call on two of Eric’s friends, one of them who had never really taken care of him in that way. I thought, I can’t believe I had to ask someone to do this. And of course when I asked for help, they said, ‘Yeah, anything, what do you need? What’s going on?’ And they both showed up and did a wonderful job,” Gayheart wrote.

His Passing at 53

On February 19, 2026, Dane died at 53, People confirmed. “With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” his family said. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world.”

“Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.”

The Internet Reacts

After Page Six shared photos of his final public appearance, before his death, at LAX, speculation quickly surfaced online. One commenter wrote, “he didn’t look that advanced.. i wonder if something else happened.”

Another added, “Damn. A shadow of his former physical self. RIP.” A third said, “He just doesn’t look that bad. I’m wondering if it was assisted. If he choose his own time kudos to him. He has always been a strong beautiful man. Going downhill so badly would destroy him I think. Bless him.. [sic].”

“I was thinking the same thing…I wondered if he opted for the end of life option..I know some States have legalized it..,” a final comment read. However, his family confirmed he passed “following a courageous battle with ALS.”

Beyond the speculation and headlines, those closest to him were focused on something far more personal. Above all else, Dane was a father. In his final months, it wasn’t red carpets or ratings that mattered. It was his daughters.

For the actor, who once said, “I never had a family, and now I do,” that may be the most powerful image of all. And as you scroll back through these photos, the fame, the mistakes, the reinventions, that truth lingers louder than anything else.

Val Chmerkovskiy was benched from “Dancing with the Stars” on Saturday, October 17, 2026, leaving celebrity partner Jenna Dewan facing an unexpected switch before Tuesday’s Dedication Night.

His trouble began after judge Carrie Ann Inaba criticized his wife, fellow pro Jenna Johnson, but the words he chose afterward seemed to reference a violent viral moment at the Oscars! And now, he has finally addressed them.

The Ballroom Has Never Benched a Pro Like This

Five weeks into season 35, Val and his dancing partner had just collected nines across the board on Super Bowl Night. That is the kind of progress a “DWTS” partnership wants heading into an emotional tribute week. Instead, Jenna is preparing to perform without him.

According to ABC News, BBC Studios, which produces the competition, announced his removal from the next episode in unmistakably firm terms.

“The well-being of everyone who works on Dancing with the Stars is non-negotiable,” the company said. “Val’s social media post was inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show. As a result, he will not participate in next week’s show.”

It is the first suspension of a professional dancer in the show’s history. For a competition where judges and dancers regularly disagree over scores, that is quite an escalation.

The argument had already spread well beyond the judges’ desk. On Reddit, one commenter wanted a stronger consequence and was already considering who should take over his partnership.

“I think it’s completely unacceptable to threaten a colleague with violence for providing feedback and *doing their job*, even if you didn’t like or agree with said feedback. Not to mention, it was feedback that wasn’t even given to him. Personally, I think he should be removed from the rest of the competition as a consequence. I know it takes time to build trust with a partner but I think Alan or Brandon should step in for Val. Jenna is a professional and I have no doubt she’d be able to adapt quickly.”

Others sounded more bewildered than interested in debating the punishment.

“I tried to rationalize in my mind anything else that this could mean but I can’t come up with anything….this is so inappropriate and disappointing🫠 [sic],” another commenter wrote. “He’s so weird now [sic],” someone else added, while another delivered a blunt verdict: “Incredibly inappropriate statement.”

Still, Val had defenders who thought the response had gone much too far. Under an Instagram post, one fan was considerably more upset about losing him from Tuesday’s broadcast. “I literally don’t want to watch if you aren’t on my screen Tuesday, the way no one can take a joke 😭 its going to ruin dwts [sic],” the fan wrote.

Another commenter drew a much firmer boundary: “CA might have been wrong in her criticism but promoting violence against women is unforgivable.”

But to understand how the conversation got there, you have to go back to the critique that angered Val.

Carrie Ann’s Lift Critique Became a Much Bigger Fight

During the Tuesday, October 13 episode, the couples performed to music by previous Super Bowl halftime entertainers, including Bad Bunny, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga. Jenna Johnson and her celebrity partner, Harry Shum Jr., danced a samba.

Carrie Ann, 58, took issue with a lift in their routine. Her critique included reading the definition of a lift, making her objection to the choreography quite explicit.

For anyone invested in a favorite couple’s scores, a technical deduction can be maddening. For Jenna’s husband, the exchange prompted a response that would cost him his own appearance the following week.

And according to Us Weekly, Jenna, a 32-year-old two-time Mirrorball champion, and Carrie Ann later cleared the air. Val’s TikTok message, however, gave the disagreement a much more troubling association.

Although he deleted it, a preserved image shows a circular photograph of him taking a mirror selfie under a text bubble that read:

“You almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom last night.”

The reference appeared to invoke Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards. Attached to a dispute involving criticism of his wife, it was easy to see why viewers connected the message to that confrontation.

Val would later say that he had not intended the implication people took from it. But his reference had already turned a scoring complaint into a question about how he was speaking about Carrie Ann.

One person responding on X was appalled by the possible professional fallout.

“This is not only scary and unacceptable, it’s EMBARRASSING for him! Think about how many people have worked on dwts and would call ‘Val’ their friend or former colleague, that now they won’t want to be associated with him because this is insane [sic],” the commenter wrote.

No matter his original intent, Val’s post had acquired a life of its own, with consequences reaching directly into his dancing partner’s preparations. And by Saturday, he had something considerably more serious to explain than why he disagreed with a judge.

Val Explains the Reference That Cost Him His Place

Val addressed his suspension on Instagram, beginning with a straightforward acknowledgment of his absence. “Hi everyone. As you may have seen in the news, I won’t be in the ballroom this week.”

He then explained how an impulse to defend his wife had led him to use the reference.

“In a moment where my instinct was to defend my wife, I made a poor decision to reference a meme to ‘keep my wife’s name’ out of the conversation, without stopping to think through what else that reference could imply, which was genuinely never my intention.”

He also addressed Carrie Ann directly within the statement. “Carrie Ann certainly didn’t deserve to get caught in the middle of my bad judgment, and I hate that she was,” he continued. His attention then shifted to the celebrity whose competition schedule had been disrupted.

“The last thing I want is to become a distraction from an important week or from the incredible work my dance partner Jenna Dewan is putting in. Please send Carrie Ann, Jenna, and the whole DWTS family lots of love during Dedication Night. I’ll be watching and cheering everyone on!!”

As of the update, Carrie Ann, his wife, and his dancing partner had not further addressed his one-week suspension. Their attention remained on the upcoming routines.

Harry, meanwhile, had already offered a gentler reminder about the atmosphere around the competition. In an Instagram message on Friday, October 16, the 44-year-old actor encouraged more kindness while celebrating his fellow contestants.

“Reminder that this is a dance show. It is supposed to be joyous. People are suffering in the world already, so let’s celebrate each other with more love,” he wrote.

Among those he praised was the “Step Up” dancer, whom he had known long before this season brought them into the same competition.

“I’ve admired you ever since I met you several decades ago,” Harry wrote. “You are a powerhouse of a performer, but the thing I remember most is how nice and gracious you were to me when I was a young creative trying to figure this industry out.”

He also celebrated the way she was handling the demands of the show. “Watching you take criticism with grace and just laying it all out on the dance floor each week, I go: ‘That’s the Jenna I know and love.’”

That affection makes her next performance particularly easy to root for. She has a deeply personal dedication to deliver, and a new professional partner helping her get there.

Jenna Dewan’s Tribute to Her Mom Will Go Ahead

Alan Bersten is stepping in as Val’s replacement for the October 20 live show. The 32-year-old pro had previously left the competition in Week 3 with celebrity partner Giada De Laurentiis.

Now he will return alongside Jenna, 45, for her Dedication Night routine. BBC Studios said she knew about the change and had continued to approach the process professionally and respectfully.

Her performance will be a Viennese waltz to “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers, dedicated to her mother, Nancy. The song and dedication were announced before the suspension, when she was still expected to perform with Val.

According to People, the ten remaining couples will each perform for someone special, with family and friends joining the stars on the dance floor as they did last year. The episode airs Tuesday, October 20, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Julia Stiles will honor her late “10 Things I Hate About You” costar Heath Ledger with a contemporary routine alongside Ezra Sosa. Their music is Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” giving that familiar song an emotional purpose for fans of the film.

Heath died on January 22, 2008, at 28, from an accidental prescription drug overdose.

Harry and Val’s wife will perform a foxtrot to John Mayer’s “Stop This Train,” dedicated to Harry’s wife, Shelby. After a week dominated by an argument over their previous routine, their next dance will center on someone he loves.

Several other contestants are honoring parents. Savannah Bananas baseball player Jackson Olson and Emma Slater will quickstep to Nat King Cole’s “L-O-V-E” for his mother, Laura.

Tyler Cameron and Sharna Burgess have a contemporary routine to Ed Sheeran’s “Supermarket Flowers,” dedicated to mothers everywhere. Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold will perform a Viennese waltz to Billy Joel’s “Piano Man” for the podcaster’s father, Pete.

Two-time Paralympic gold medalist Ezra Frech will honor his mother, Bahar, through a contemporary dance with Daniella Karagach to Mon Rovia’s “Bloodline.” Olympian Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov will also perform contemporary, using Sia’s “Breathe Me” for a dedication to Amber’s sister, Brooke.

Maura Higgins is taking a different route, dedicating her paso doble with Mark Ballas to Ireland. Their music, “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by Dropkick Murphys, promises a rather different energy from the evening’s waltzes.

Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik are preparing a Viennese waltz to Nancy Wilson’s “(You Don’t Know) How Glad I Am.” When the lineup was published on October 14, her dedication was being held for an October 15 reveal on “The Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast,” hosted by Andy Richter.

There is still plenty of competition ahead for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Season 35 has already visited “Mariah Carey Night,” “Yacht Rock Night,” and “Viral Hits Night,” with “Horror Movie Night,” “Disney Night,” and “Grammy Night” still to come.

The semifinals are scheduled for Week 10, ahead of the November 24 finale. For now, though, the immediate challenge belongs to the dancers preparing to make Tuesday’s tributes count.

Jenna Dewan will enter that ballroom with Alan beside her and her mother at the heart of her performance. Val, whose deleted message pulled attention away from the dancing, will be watching from outside it.

A change at the White House has sparked conversations both inside and outside the briefing room. But just as attention turned to the new face behind the podium, a seemingly simple question prompted an unexpectedly sharp response from her predecessor.

The timing was particularly striking, coming just hours after Katie Zacharia’s closely watched debut as the new White House press secretary.

President Donald Trump announced his choice of a new White House press secretary on October 9, 2026, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty over who would fill the position.

Karoline Leavitt’s exit left the position vacant for more than six weeks, while the administration continued to navigate political disputes, questions from reporters, and preparations for the November midterm elections.

Trump revealed his decision in a statement on Truth Social, praising his selection for her loyalty, communications experience, and support for his political movement. He also highlighted her previous work for his media company, her experience at the Department of Homeland Security, and her involvement in his political campaigns.

The president wrote that she had assisted his campaigns in key swing states, claiming that the team had won all seven states where she helped. He also expressed confidence that she would work well with the media, the American public, and his administration.

Katie Zacharia’s First White House Briefing Draws Attention

On October 13, 2026, Zacharia stepped behind the podium in the White House briefing room in Washington, D.C., making her first appearance as the administration’s new press secretary. According to the official footage shared by the White House, Zacharia began by expressing how honored she felt to take on the position and serve President Trump and the American people.

She also offered praise for the president and his endeavors before moving on to other matters involving the administration. Among the subjects addressed was Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. ambassador to Greece, whom the White House had asked to resign.

Although her debut had generated considerable anticipation, the briefing itself was notably short. In Reuters’ coverage of the appearance, Reporter Jacob Bogage, who was seated in the front row, highlighted just how quickly the event concluded.

According to Bogage, Zacharia took only three questions during a briefing that lasted less than 15 minutes. He also observed that she did not provide many direct answers to the questions posed. The reporter discussed the anticipation surrounding Zacharia’s debut and drew comparisons with her predecessor, Leavitt, whose performance in the role he regarded favorably.

However, the number of questions was not the only aspect of the briefing that attracted attention. As the footage circulated, viewers began focusing on Zacharia’s delivery — and particularly on what happened between her remarks.

Throughout the briefing, Zacharia could be seen frequently lowering her gaze toward the papers positioned in front of her. At several points, she would pause, consult her notes, and then look back up toward the assembled reporters, sometimes smiling before continuing. While referring to prepared remarks is a familiar part of official press briefings, the repeated pauses became a subject of discussion among those watching her debut.

For some viewers, the behavior suggested understandable nerves associated with starting a demanding new position. However, others were less convinced by her delivery, particularly given the expectations surrounding her predecessor. But as online discussions developed, the focus soon expanded beyond what Zacharia said and how she said it.

Her overall appearance began generating a separate conversation, with social media users commenting on everything from her facial expressions to her choice of clothing.

Online Reactions Range from Support to Questions About Her Nerves

Following the briefing, viewers shared their impressions in the comments under a Fox News post on X. Some were sympathetic to the new press secretary, suggesting that her first appearance in such a prominent setting may have been overwhelming. One person opined, “She’s nervous. She’ll be fine.”

On the other hand, another commenter questioned, “Why is she so nervous?” Meanwhile, a fellow netizen focused on Zacharia’s repeated glances toward her prepared remarks: “She kept looking at her script 🤦🏻‍♂️ Succeeding Leavitt is not going to be easy.”

The remark highlighted another recurring theme in the discussion: comparisons between Zacharia and Leavitt. Although viewers differed in their assessments of the briefing, the conversation did not remain limited to Zacharia’s speaking style. One particularly noticeable detail of her appearance began attracting comments of its own.

Her Smile Became an Unexpected Talking Point

As viewers examined the footage and photographs, some turned their attention to Zacharia’s bright, prominent smile, which appeared repeatedly throughout the briefing. One netizen offered a particularly direct assessment in a post about the new press secretary, penning, “Trump new press secretary Katie Zacharia has nice very [sic] nice teeth. That is it!”

The focus on Zacharia’s smile also appeared in a Reddit discussion, where some commenters combined observations about her appearance with criticism of her delivery. One person remarked, “ok, she can barely read, but, on the other hand, her teeth are very white.”

Still, her smile was not the only visual detail prompting comparisons. Another element of her appearance inspired a rather unexpected question.

Zacharia’s Outfit Sparks Flight Attendant Comparisons

For her first appearance behind the White House podium, Zacharia chose a polished, formal ensemble that featured a dark, double-breasted blazer with gold buttons and a white blouse with a distinctive neckline. Her long blonde hair fell loosely over her shoulders, completing the look as she addressed reporters.

While the outfit was appropriate for a professional setting, some social media users found themselves comparing its styling to something entirely different. In the Reddit discussion, an observer asked, “And why was she dressed like a flight attendant?”

The same comparison surfaced on Facebook, where a commenter responded to a Reel featuring Zacharia by questioning, “Is she a flight attendant?”

The remarks added another dimension to the online conversation, which had already shifted between her briefing performance, her expressions, and her appearance. What began as a closely watched political debut had become an online discussion about nearly every detail captured by the cameras.

As reported by The Sun on October 15, 2026, Zacharia officially joined the White House on Monday, October 12, following Leavitt’s departure in August. The appointment reportedly caught some administration officials off guard, particularly with the November midterm elections approaching and Republicans fighting to maintain control of Congress.

However, Zacharia’s first appearance behind the briefing-room podium did little to quiet the attention surrounding the transition. During her debut on Tuesday, October 13, the new press secretary fielded questions from just three reporters before ending the session in under 15 minutes.

The relatively short briefing drew criticism from some political analysts and media commentators, who questioned her performance in the high-profile role.

Trump, however, offered a different assessment when asked about his new spokesperson. “I thought she was very good,” he told reporters. Yet the discussion surrounding Zacharia soon extended beyond her first briefing, as questions emerged about another aspect of her professional background.

Questions Emerge About Zacharia’s Legal Career

According to an October 15 report by Reuters, Zacharia’s previous claims about practicing law have attracted scrutiny. The news agency reported that it could not locate records showing she had been registered as an attorney or admitted to a bar in any U.S. state or Washington, D.C.

Zacharia has described herself as having practiced law before entering politics, while Trump has also referred to her as an attorney. According to Pepperdine University, she graduated with a law degree in 2011. However, earning a law degree and being licensed to practice law are not the same thing in the United States, where admission to a state bar is also required.

Her LinkedIn profile reportedly listed a position as an associate at Zhong Lun Law Firm in Beijing between 2011 and 2013. She also listed a role as general counsel at Fix California, an advocacy organization founded by Trump ally Ric Grenell, between 2024 and 2025.

Grenell offered Reuters additional context about her responsibilities at the organization, describing Zacharia as “a senior adviser, who did a lot of different roles,” including “leading the outside counsel, who were our lawyers.”

The questions about her credentials also surfaced during her first White House briefing. When a reporter asked where she had passed the bar examination, Zacharia responded, “when I moved to China.”

However, Chinese law requires licensed practicing lawyers to be Chinese nationals. Foreign nationals may provide legal advice and consulting services but cannot practice as licensed Chinese lawyers.

Zacharia pushed back against the questions surrounding her qualifications, telling Reuters in an emailed statement on Wednesday: “I practiced international transaction law, with all the appropriate credentials.”

The controversy added another layer to the attention surrounding her arrival at the White House, with her professional background now joining her briefing performance as a subject of public discussion.

But while Zacharia’s first days in the role were being examined, the woman she replaced was facing a very different question of her own. And this time, the exchange unfolded not in the White House briefing room but on social media.

Karoline Leavitt Faces a Pointed Question About Her Departure

Just hours after Zacharia’s first briefing, Leavitt took to Instagram to interact with her followers. The former White House press secretary had stepped away from the demanding position in August, but her decision was evidently still generating curiosity.

Her departure had marked a significant change in her professional life, particularly after spending much of her time navigating the pressures of one of Washington’s most visible jobs.

Although Leavitt is no longer serving as Trump’s press secretary, she has not disappeared from public life or abandoned professional commitments altogether. That distinction apparently prompted one follower to question why she had left such a prominent position if she still intended to work.

During an Instagram Q&A shared on her account, the follower asked:

“If you are going to be working, why did you leave the press sec position?”

Rather than sidestepping the question, Leavitt offered a direct explanation that highlighted just how different her life had become since leaving the White House. Her answer also made it clear that she saw a substantial difference between continuing to work and maintaining the relentless schedule of her former position.

Leavitt Delivers a Blunt Response

Leavitt began her response with an eye-rolling emoji before spelling out the demands of her former job and contrasting them with her current routine, answering:

“As Press Sec, I was working in the office 60+ hours a week, traveling the world, and always on call 24/7. Now, I am home with my kids every day and doing some TV hits. These things are not the same, ma’am.”

The final sentence gave her explanation a particularly pointed edge, making it clear that she did not consider her current professional activities comparable to the responsibilities she previously carried. Her response also offered a glimpse into the practical realities of her former position.

The exchange came at a noteworthy moment, with Zacharia’s first briefing having taken place only hours earlier. While her successor is adjusting to the scrutiny that accompanies the White House podium, Leavitt was explaining why her own life looked considerably different without it.

For Karoline Leavitt, the distinction is not simply between working and not working; it is between the all-consuming demands of her former position and a schedule that now allows her to be home with her children. And judging by the unmistakably firm tone of her final words, she wants that difference to be understood.

Weeks later, that small piece of her online life became something very different. But before returning to what Fiona actually shared, the people who knew her outside social media had already left a much fuller picture of her final year.

Her Life Was Bigger Than a Famous Last Name

At school, Fiona had her own circle. She was remembered as “a very well-liked student” who had “a lot of friends”.

People in the community also described her as “sweet, quiet and kind” with “a very artistic soul”. After her death, many of her friends stayed home from school as classmates struggled with the loss.

Those memories showed a side of Fiona that rarely appeared in public photographs. And another part of her life would soon become especially important when people looked back at the final months she left behind.

One passion came up especially often when people spoke about Fiona: dance. It was not something newly attached to her memory after her death; it had already occupied a large part of her young life.

Her teacher, Kendra Andrews, had known that side of Fiona well. And earlier in 2026, she saw the teenager return to the studio after the Lowe family had already endured a major loss.

The Family Had Already Lost Something Huge

The Lowe family’s Pacific Palisades home was destroyed in the Los Angeles fires. Chad later shared photographs of his daughters returning to the property and looking through what remained.

He called their resilience “nothing short of remarkable”. He also wrote that helping his daughters through that period had become his “sole purpose.”

Around 1 month later, Andrews saw Fiona back at dance. She remembered the teenager walking into the studio “excited with a beaming bright smile and a big, warm hug”.

Fiona began rehearsing again. When she returned for another session a few weeks later, Andrews could see how much work she had done on the choreography between lessons.

Fiona eventually performed the routine onstage. Andrews later remembered her student’s “passion and determination”and said she watched the performance with pride.

That was one piece of Fiona’s year. School continued, family life continued, and summer arrived — bringing with it one post that would only stand out much later.

August Left Behind Something Nobody Expected to Revisit

By August, Fiona’s Instagram still looked like the account of a teenager sharing pieces of her life. One new Reel joined the page without a farewell message or any announcement attached to it.

At the time, the upload had no reason to feel final. It was simply the newest thing Fiona had chosen to post.

The weeks that followed changed the way people would later return to that Reel. What had once occupied an ordinary place on her page became one of the final public records of Fiona’s life.

And when the clip is finally opened, its subject connects directly to something her teacher had already been talking about.

Then You Press Play

Fiona’s August Reel shows her dancing. There is no goodbye attached to the clip. The final post on Fiona’s Instagram page captured the activity that had already taken her through rehearsals, practice sessions, and performances.

Only weeks separated that upload from Fiona’s death. The girl Andrews had recently watched working through choreography had left behind one more piece of that passion on her own page.

But the Reel was not the only deeply personal material to emerge afterward. Four days after Fiona’s death, her older sister Mabel reached much further back than August.

Mabel Opened a Different Album

On October 3, 17-year-old Mabel shared childhood photographs and videos of Fiona. Instead of focusing only on the final weeks, the tribute moved through years the sisters had spent growing up together.

Some of the material included moments connected to dance. Then Mabel added a line that brought a very different tone to the collection.

“I wish your short time here was easier, and I hope your mind is at ease now,” Mabel wrote.

She later added another promise to her younger sister: “I will honor you forever and keep your memory alive. I love you, I hope you knew just how much.”

Mabel’s photographs showed the Fiona she had known long before headlines entered the family’s life. There were younger faces, sister moments, and pieces of childhood that had never belonged to a public story.

The tribute also showed how much history existed before the final summer. Fiona’s life had included years of family milestones, school friendships, lessons, performances, and ordinary days with her sisters.

Chad Had Spoken About His Daughters Years Earlier

Fiona’s father had also talked publicly about what raising 3 daughters meant to him. During a conversation about fatherhood, Chad called being a “girl dad” an incredible privilege.

He said Mabel, Fiona, and Nixie had pushed him to look at the world from their perspectives. Those comments came before the family had any reason to imagine one of the girls would be gone at 13.

After Fiona died, Chad and Kim described their daughter as smart, creative, loving, and passionate about dance. They called her “the light of our lives.”

Those words sat beside memories from entirely different parts of Fiona’s world: classmates had spoken about her kindness, while Andrews had remembered the student who kept working until her routine was ready for the stage.

Then the Official Answer Came

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed that Fiona died by suicide.

The confirmation came as people around the family were still sharing memories of who Fiona had been in their own lives. School friends, relatives, and her dance teacher were each remembering a different part of the same girl.

Andrews returned to one of those memories in her tribute. She recalled watching Fiona perform with her “heart swelling with pride” and tears of joy in her eyes.

For the teacher, that memory belonged to the work Fiona had put into learning the routine. She had practiced it, improved it, and finally taken it onto a stage.

What Remained After the Headlines

By then, several very different records of Fiona’s life had surfaced. Mabel had shared years of sisterhood, Chad’s earlier words showed how central his daughters were to him, and Fiona’s school community remembered a quiet, artistic girl with friends around her.

Her Instagram left something smaller. One short August Reel captured Fiona inside the passion people closest to her had already been describing.

There was no final speech in that clip and no carefully written closing message. Fiona had simply posted a moment from her life, without knowing how people would one day return to it.

What came afterward filled in pieces the Reel never could. Her teacher remembered the hours she spent practicing, her school community remembered a “sweet, quiet and kind” girl, and Mabel went back through years of childhood photos and videos to remember the sister she had grown up beside.

Those memories stretch far beyond one August post. There were dance rehearsals, performances, family outings, school days, 2 sisters growing up alongside her, and people who knew Fiona long before strangers knew her name from a headline.