Destined for the 'Dancing with the Stars' Finale
By Andrea Engstrom | Tuesday, September 30, 2008, 11:52 PM
Kim Kardashian and Mark Ballas
© ABC/Craig Sjodin
They may all be one big happy family backstage at "Dancing with the Stars," but tonight's elimination reminded everyone that the dancers are in a competition that's just going to get more cutthroat week after week.
Here's how I think the competition stacks up so far for Season 7 of "Dancing with the Stars":
DESTINED FOR THE FINALS
Brooke Burke: She's hot, talented, and likeable. The only thing that could prevent her from making it to the finals is if she doesn't grow from here. She's set the bar pretty high.
Warren Sapp: He's huge, surprisingly gifted, and also likeable. He would have to completely give up in order to not own a spot in the finale.
A SHOT AT MIRRORBALL GLORY
Misty May-Treanor: If she can relax and enjoy herself, Misty could definitely find herself in the finals. When she lets go, this athlete can actually move.
Lance Bass: He's got all the makings of a finalist, including a fantastic partner. But he will lose fans if he doesn't prove he can follow the rules and still rock it out.
Cody Linley: Cody is a serious threat on the dance floor. The one thing that could cause an early exit is if the older folks (you know, the people who watch this show) don't take him seriously.
Toni Braxton: When I'm not distracted by the look of terror constantly plastered on her face, I think Toni displays some real skill. She killed the Rumba -- in a good way.
NOT GONNA HAPPEN
Susan Lucci: She's got the fans, but she doesn't have the moves. She's way too careful, which reminds me a lot of Season 5's Jane Seymour (coincidentally, Jane was also partnered with Tony Dovolani).
Cloris Leachman: I love her just as much as you do, but the "What's She Going Do Next?" votes are going to eventually run dry. Plus, Marie Osmond was half Cloris' age when she fainted on live TV. I'm just saying.
Maurice Greene: He could surprise me, but I don't think he's going to generate an excited enough fan base to keep him around.
Rocco DiSpirito: That adorable smile will only keep this hot chef in the competition for one more round.
Talk About It: Who are your picks for the final four?