The battle for the disco ball is almost over. Kristi Yamaguchi, Jason Taylor and Cristian de la Fuente are competing for the twinkling trophy on ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars.” The finale, which concludes tonight, could be a close race because of Kristi’s perfection, Jason’s charisma and Cristian’s dramatic comeback from an arm injury.
But no matter who wins, 20 million viewers are likely to tune in. And why not? The “Dancing” season has provided an escape from gas prices, the slumping economy and presidential campaign squabbles.
Doesn’t everyone deserve a few hours of bare skin and sequins a week? The special guests for tonight include Grammy winner Usher and the nine previously eliminated contestants from this season.
Who’s going to become the disco king or queen? Here’s a look at their pros and cons.
Kristi Yamaguchi, a.k.a. the ice princess
Best dances: Her peppy jive; her romantic Viennese waltz with an umbrella prop.
Pros: The Olympic champion skater is as graceful off the ice as on.
Her precision made her the early favorite. But the judges have been tough on her recently.
Cons: If she wants to win, Kristi needs to thaw out and show more emotion.
Secret weapon: She can handle more complicated choreography than her rivals. Jason Taylor, a.k.a. the gridiron god
Best dances: His scores were better for the waltz and quickstep, but you gotta love his paso doble to the “Monday Night Football” theme.
Pros: The Miami Dolphins defensive end cuts a dashing figure with his majestic lines. If he wasn’t so busy with football, he could have a career in ballet. Plus, he’s so handsome.
Cons: Now that his poise is predictable, he needs to step up his game on his other moves.
Secret weapon: His height gives his performances extra oomph.
Cristian de la Fuente, a.k.a. the one-armed bandit
Best dances: Any of the numbers he’s done since rupturing a tendon in his left bicep.
Pros: The charismatic actor from Chile has become a fan favorite since being injured on the show. He’s done so well with a bum arm he could steal the top spot.
Cons: Can he keep finding ways to draw attention away from his limitations? Costumes: Thank goodness he’s still able to unbutton those brightly colored shirts that show off his abs.
Secret weapon: A very good sense of humor.
