In the face of growing criticism – Dr. Keith Ablow says parents should keep their kids away from Dancing with the Stars , while OneMillionMoms dot com says “Christians should not watch” – Chaz Bono is not phased. Instead, the controversial cast member sounds inspired. The backlash has “made me realize I’m really glad I’m doing this, because America really needs to see this,” Bono told ABC News. “It just kind of shows why for me it’s important to be on the show because so little still is known about what it means to be transgender. And there’s so many just completely inaccurate stereotypes and thoughts that people have.” Howard Bragman has been advising Bono and told Good Morning America : “Watching Chaz Bono dance is not going to make your kid transgender. But what it can do is possibly save your kids life because young transgender kids, kids with gender identity issues, have a huge suicide rate and if they see one positive influence, one positive role model, this can save lives and that’s why Chaz is here.” Fellow Dancing with the Stars contestants have also spoken out in support of Bono . THG readers? They are also on his side. Vote in our poll NOW !
It’s that time of the year. Dancing with the Stars has begun rehearsals with their new cast of dancers. We caught up to some of them outside of the studio.
“lovelies! Chaz is Being Viciously Attacked on Blogs & Message boards about being on DWTS ! This is Still America right ? It took guts 2 do it. Can u guys check out sites & give him your support? BTW …Mothers don’t stop Getting angry with stupid bigots who fk with their children!” Now you know. [ @cher via WSJ , AP ]
Chaz Bono’s joining the Dancing With the Stars cast gave the show major publicity, but it wasn’t just done as a stunt or a favor to the LGBT community. Based on what we know of past seasons and those who have made long runs on the show, Chaz – if he can dance at all – could be among the favorites. Below, THG breaks down the prospects for the man formerly known as Chastity Bono (with girlfriend Jennifer Ella, below) and the rest of the dancers … Favorites: David Arquette, Chaz Bono, Ron Artest, Hope Solo, Ricki Lake If anyone has the notoriety that they can utilize to gain interest and build fan support, it’s Bono, who will be paired with a female professional dancer. David Arquette is probably the show’s second biggest “get,” especially after his separation from wife Courteney Cox and subsequent bizarre behavior. We don’t know if either one can dance, admittedly. But assuming there’s any kind of rhythm there, each could go on fairly sustained runs this fall. As for Ron Artest (the player soon to be known as Metta World Peace), pro athletes tend to do well, and Ron is very likable beneath the crazy exterior. Ditto for U.S. World Cup soccer goalie Solo. Ricki Lake, meanwhile, fits the Jennifer Grey mold, having starred in a dance-themed cult classic film. Underdogs: Nancy Grace, Rob Kardashian We could well be proven wrong here, but these would be our picks to go home first. Nancy Grace is a polarizing figure and likely won’t change that. As for Kardashian, DWTS is not necessarily kind to reality stars. The fan base is a little different, so he’s likely coming in as one of the lesser-knowns. Plus, even those that love the Kardashians kind of hate the Kardashians. Dark Horses: Chynna Phillips, Kristin Cavallari, Elisabetta Canalis Phillips has a fan base from her music and acting, even if each is a bit dated. Canalis is George Clooney’s ex . That’ll have people curious for sure. Cavallari could be a bust or the real deal. Remember Audrina Patridge? She finished fifth her season and was totally robbed from advancing further. Kristin’s pretty, sassy and could build some strong support. Maybe. Wild Cards: J.R. Martinez, Carson Kressley Martinez, the actor and Iraq War veteran whose body was 40 percent burned after a landmine explosion, will touch more hearts every week he lasts. The question is whether he can do well enough to get through the first few weeks where he may be the cast’s least-known member. Total wild card. Finally, Carson Kressley of Queer Eye For the Straight Guy . He’s fallen off the radar a bit in recent years, but still has a loyal following. How loyal? Stay tuned. This is just THG’s take. Now tell us yours: Who do you think will win DWTS Season 13? Vote!
Dancing with the Stars has got Chaz Bono, babe. The child of Cher and Sonny Bono, Chaz will become the first transgender contestant in the history of the ABC competition. For those wondering, sources confirm this woman-turned-man will be partnered with a female when the season premieres on September 19.
The ratings for this season should be through the roof behind this one. According to TMZ Reports : TMZ has learned … Chaz Bono will be hitting the hardwood on the new season of “Dancing with the Stars.” Multiple sources connected with the show tell us … Chaz has signed on and will be partnered with a female professional. Makes sense, because Chaz is legally a man … baby. LOL @ “…because Chaz is legally a man…baby” Will you be watching?
Filed under: Chaz Bono , Johnny Weir Cher’s son Chaz Bono and Olympian Johnny Weir bonded at the GLAAD awards in L.A. the other day. Question is … Read more
Filed under: TV , Charlie Sheen , Exclusives , Brooke Mueller Charlie Sheen got a standing ovation from the audience before and after taping last Friday during filming of “Two and a Half Men,” TMZ has learned.Our spies say when Charlie walked out on the stage the audience rose to its collective feet and went … Permalink
