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Maura Higgins made a powerful debut on “Dancing with the Stars,” rising to the top of the leaderboard after an energetic foxtrot with professional partner Mark Ballas. The performance earned the pair 21 out of 30 points and secured Higgins’ place in the second week of the competition.
The reality television star, known for “The Traitors” and “Love Island UK,” performed to “Black Velvet” during Wednesday night’s ballroom episode. Higgins and Ballas received enthusiastic feedback from the judging panel, while their connection from “The Traitors” added a dramatic layer to the routine.
Maura Higgins Delivers a Stunning DWTS Debut
Although Higgins said she had never danced before joining the show, she appeared confident once the music began. Her foxtrot combined classic ballroom movement with visual references to her reality television past, creating one of the evening’s most memorable performances.
“I’m so honored to be a part of it and to start the show at the top of the leaderboard is pretty crazy,” Higgins told ABC News after the performance. She also admitted that she was nervous before stepping onto the dance floor.
For Higgins, appearing on “Dancing with the Stars” fulfilled a goal she said she had previously manifested. Her strong first score places her among the contestants to watch as the competition moves forward.
The Emotional Story Behind the Hermès Birkin
While the dance captured attention, viewers were also focused on a burgundy Hermès Birkin bag in the audience. Rob Rausch, Higgins’ former “The Traitors” co-star, held the luxury handbag while displaying Higgins’ text-to-vote information.
The bag has a personal history connected to the reality competition. Higgins finished second behind Rausch during “The Traitors” season four. Throughout the show, Rausch convinced Higgins that he was one of the Faithful contestants, only for her to discover that he had been secretly working as a Traitor.
Rausch later gave Higgins the Birkin as an apology for betraying her during the game. The gift became a popular talking point after the season ended, and its appearance at the ballroom added another memorable moment to Higgins’ television comeback.
Mark Ballas and Higgins Bring “The Traitors” to the Ballroom
The performance included several references to the pair’s shared reality television history. Ballas’ routine began with him emerging from a coffin, a callback to his elimination from “The Traitors.” On that show, Ballas was banished from the competition in a coffin, making the ballroom opening a dramatic full-circle moment.
The routine also featured music from Ballas’ wife, BC Jean, who sang “Black Velvet” with the band. The combination of theatrical staging, familiar faces and a strong dance score helped the performance stand out during the season 35 premiere week.
Higgins and Ballas were both Faithfuls during their time in “The Traitors,” working with other contestants to identify the hidden Traitors. Although neither won the castle competition, their partnership has now become one of the most closely watched pairings on the ballroom floor.
Familiar Faces Cheer Maura Higgins From the Audience
Higgins did not face her first “Dancing with the Stars” performance alone. Rausch and Lisa Rinna were in the audience to support her, giving viewers another connection between the ballroom series and the popular reality competition.
The reaction from fans was especially strong because of the history between Higgins and Rausch. The Birkin bag served as both a visible voting message and a reminder of the betrayal that shaped their time on “The Traitors.”
Higgins and Ballas were not the only newcomers to advance. “Summer House” star Ciara Miller also moved forward after performing a foxtrot with professional dancer Brandon Armstrong.
When to Watch Maura Higgins on DWTS
“Dancing with the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+. New episodes stream the following day on Hulu. Higgins’ 21-point debut gives her an early advantage, but the competition is expected to become more demanding as the remaining celebrities take on new dances.
For now, Maura Higgins has made a memorable first impression. Her combination of reality television history, emotional storytelling and ballroom potential could make her one of the season’s breakout contestants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points did Maura Higgins receive on DWTS?
Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas earned 21 out of 30 points for their foxtrot to “Black Velvet.”
Who is Maura Higgins’ professional dance partner?
Maura Higgins is partnered with Mark Ballas, who also appeared with her on “The Traitors.”
Why was Rob Rausch holding a Birkin bag?
Rob Rausch held a burgundy Hermès Birkin that he gave Higgins after betraying her during “The Traitors.” The bag displayed her text-to-vote information.
What song did Maura Higgins dance to?
Higgins and Ballas performed a foxtrot to “Black Velvet,” with BC Jean singing the song with the band.
When does Dancing with the Stars air?
“Dancing with the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available to stream the next day on Hulu.
