AceShowbiz - The recent Dancing with the Stars holiday special, a festive blend of live original choreography and cherished past performances, subtly underscored a glaring truth for veteran pro Emma Slater. While the event allowed fans to glimpse familiar faces like Elaine Hendrix and Whitney Leavitt in the audience, it was the heartwarming reunion of Emma Slater with her two most recent partners, Andy Richter and Reginald VelJohnson, that truly brought the issue to light. Watching the beloved duo earnestly shuffle amidst agile background dancers vividly highlighted just how long it’s been since Emma Slater was paired with a true contender, signaling that Dancing with the Stars Season 35 is overdue to provide her with a ringer.

The sight of Andy Richter and Reginald VelJohnson lovingly, albeit somewhat stiffly, performing to “All I Want for Christmas (Is My Two Front Teeth)” was undeniably sweet. However, it also served as a stark reminder that Emma Slater has not been given a truly competitive partner in years. Reggie, the oldest contestant of his season, garnered universal affection but struggled significantly with movement. Andy, on the other hand, embodied the spirit of the show—starting from scratch, embracing the challenge, and radiating gratitude. While their appearances were endearing, they also showcased the immense effort Emma Slater consistently expends just to make her partners appear presentable, let alone competitive.

This hasn't always been the trajectory for Emma Slater. Her talent for transforming raw potential into Mirror Ball contenders was undeniable in earlier seasons. She famously secured the coveted trophy in 2017 with NFL running back Rashad Jennings during Season 24. She then immediately followed up that success by reaching the finale in Season 25 with Property Brother Drew Scott. These back-to-back achievements clearly demonstrated her exceptional ability to coach and choreograph for a wide range of skill levels, proving her capability to guide strong partners deep into the competition.

However, since her triumphant run in Season 25, despite her consistent presence as a professional dancer, Emma Slater has not returned to the finale. The issue isn't a lack of talent on her part; rather, it points to a pattern in casting decisions. Her average partner age hovers around 50, including stars like John Schneider and Charles Oakley. While Donny Osmond holds the record as the oldest Mirror Ball winner at 52, such victories for older contestants remain exceedingly rare. This trend suggests that Dancing with the Stars has not been setting Emma Slater up for success, making a competitive pairing in an upcoming season long overdue.

Considering Emma Slater’s sustained popularity on social media and her respected standing among fellow pros and the cast, her deserving a ringer partner is clear. While the precise formula for a Mirror Ball champion remains elusive, some stars arrive with an obvious advantage, much like DWTS Season 34 champion Robert Irwin. It's time for Dancing with the Stars to acknowledge Emma Slater's enduring talent and dedication by providing her with a partner who can truly match her competitive spirit and help her vie for the Mirror Ball once more.