Jojo Siwa Makes History on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 30 Premiere
ABC Reading Time: 2 minutes
Jojo Siwa made history on the season 30 premiere of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with professional dancer Jenna Johnson, this duo makes the very first same-sex coupling in the show’s run. With the recent controversy surrounding the child star’s sexuality, her feature on the show is a groundbreaking inspiration to those who look up to her.
The singer, dancer, and internet sensation first appeared on the series, Dance Moms. Since then, she has become a viral phenomenon, embarked on concert tours, starred in a number of projects, and is admired by children across the country. Jojo Siwa came out in early 2021 and has used her platform to make kids feel included in society.
“I want to make truly being who you are, normal for kids,” she said during rehearsals. “We’re gonna be inspiring for people who come after us.”
The visible excitement between the women radiated through their rehearsal footage.
Jojo Siwa and Jenna Johnson Dance the Quickstep
Upon taking to the ballroom stage, the dynamic duo danced a quickstep routine to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl.” A very on-the-nose and fitting song choice given the historic moment.
Both Siwa and Jenna sported a pair of flowy trousers and crop tops instead of the traditional ballroom dresses. This kept the routine gender neutral and also prevented one partner from leading the other. In fact, it was almost as if the two were mirroring each other at times. The audience erupted in applause at the end of their fantastic technical and energetic performance. Bruno Tonioli was especially proud at the same-sex duo.
“Finally the groundbreaking moment we’ve all been waiting for,” he said.
On the panel, it was even pointed out that Siwa lifted up Johnson as she slightly slipped on-stage. It seems their support for one another turned quite literal on stage tonight. Derek Hough concluded the comments by saying Siwa was “born for Dancing with the Stars.”
In the end to a magical night, Siwa and Johnson received the highest scores of the evening at 29.
