The departure of Hanson and Stewart on September 29 after a modest 18-point foxtrot performance served as a breaking point for many longtime fans. Social media platforms erupted with critiques, as viewers pointed out that Stewart has been knocked out by the fourth week in four consecutive seasons. While Stewart previously proved her competitive mettle by reaching the semifinals with Johnny Weir in 2020 and Daniel Durant in 2022, recent assignments have left her sidelined early, fueling speculation that she may not return for future seasons.
Beyond the scores, the discourse has shifted toward the show’s handling of Black female professionals. Critics compared Stewart’s recent trajectory to her earlier successes, arguing that the casting process fails to provide her with partners capable of deep runs. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba joined the chorus of support, publicly lamenting the exit and acknowledging Stewart’s high level of talent. With Stewart now facing a string of early departures—including exits with Adrian Peterson, Eric Roberts, and Baron Davis—the audience’s patience appears to have reached its limit, turning a routine elimination into a referendum on the show's integrity.




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