Comprehensive Deep-Dive: Julia Stiles Delivers Nostalgic Save the Last Dance Tribute on Dancing with the Stars Season 35
The ballroom of Dancing with the Stars Season 35 brought a heavy dose of early-2000s nostalgia during “Super Bowl Night,” highlighted by a standout performance from actress Julia Stiles.

1. The Save the Last Dance Homage
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Jazz Routine to J-Lo: Dancing alongside partner Ezra Sosa, Julia performed an energetic jazz routine set to Jennifer Lopez’s “Jenny from the Block,” echoing J.Lo’s iconic 2020 Super Bowl halftime performance.
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Nod to the Classic Film: Midway through the routine, Julia incorporated choreography reminiscent of her memorable chair-dancing sequences from the 2001 cultural touchstone Save the Last Dance, thrilling millennial fans and judges alike.
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Surprise Guest Appearance: Adding to the emotional resonance of the night, her original Save the Last Dance co-star Sean Patrick Thomas made a surprise appearance in the ballroom audience, cheering her on and giving his signature nod of approval from the sidelines.

2. Judge Reaction and Scores
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Strong Score: The nostalgic tribute resonated well with the judges and guest commentator Joe Buck, earning the pair an impressive 33 out of 40.
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Overwhelming Fan Response: Viewers flooded social media with appreciation for the nostalgic nods and Sean Patrick Thomas’s supportive cameo, celebrating 25 years since the beloved dance film’s debut.
Let me know if you would like more recaps or updates on the rest of the Dancing with the Stars contestants and performances!