Image Source: Entertainment Weekly
Guillermo Rodriguez DWTS elimination marked the end of the Jimmy Kimmel Live! star’s ballroom journey, but it also highlighted friendships that may last well beyond the competition. Rodriguez and professional dancer Witney Carson were sent home during the Oct. 13 episode of Dancing With the Stars season 35.
The pair competed in a Super Bowl-themed episode, performing a salsa to Bad Bunny’s “Tití Me Preguntó.” Their routine earned a score of 22, the lowest total of the week. Although their run ended after five weeks, Rodriguez said his time on the show gave him memories, new challenges and meaningful connections with fellow contestants.
Guillermo Rodriguez DWTS Elimination Leads to Lasting Friendships
Speaking with E! News after the elimination, Rodriguez explained that the cast members developed a genuine bond despite competing for the Mirrorball Trophy. He specifically named Ezra Frech and Connor Wood as two contestants with whom he expects to remain close.
“It’s a competition, but they’re good people,” Rodriguez said. He added that he and the contestants had exchanged phone numbers and planned to spend time together outside the ballroom.
Rodriguez said he was looking forward to having lunch with Frech and Wood. He also mentioned the possibility of attending a Kings game with them on Saturday. The plans offered a lighthearted moment after an emotional elimination and showed how quickly the season’s cast had formed friendships.
- Rodriguez exchanged contact information with Ezra Frech and Connor Wood.
- He hopes to meet the pair for lunch after leaving the show.
- The group may attend a Kings game together.
- Rodriguez described his ballroom experience as amazing and challenging.
A Difficult but Rewarding Ballroom Journey
At 55, Rodriguez entered the competition without a professional dance background. He acknowledged that the experience was far more demanding than he initially expected, but he continued to approach each rehearsal and performance with enthusiasm.
“I thought it was gonna be hard, but it was too hard,” he told E! News. “It was very hard, but you know what? I was having fun every day that I go and dance every Tuesday.”
Although he will not continue competing for the season 35 title, Rodriguez said he had no regrets about accepting the challenge. He emphasized that he gave his best effort and appreciated the opportunity to learn new routines alongside Carson.
The late-night television personality also praised his professional partner, calling Carson “the best.” He added that women can accomplish anything they set their minds to, a comment that reflected his admiration for Carson’s perseverance throughout the season.
Witney Carson Reflects on Competing While Pregnant
Carson’s participation brought an additional layer of significance to the partnership. The professional dancer is expecting her third child with husband Carson McAllister and competed while 20 weeks pregnant.
Carson admitted that she never expected to compete on Dancing With the Stars during pregnancy. However, she said Rodriguez helped make the experience possible and allowed her to discover what her body could do each week.
“It was empowering to see what my body could do each week,” Carson said. Her comments captured the physical and emotional demands of the season, particularly as the routines became more difficult and the competition grew more intense.
By the end of the fifth week, both performers were feeling the strain. Carson said they were “breaking down a little bit,” but she also described their progress as a testament to women’s strength and capability.
Who Is Still Competing for the Mirrorball Trophy?
With Rodriguez and Carson eliminated, the remaining celebrities continue their pursuit of the season 35 championship. The cast includes actors, athletes, musicians, television personalities and social media stars, creating a diverse and unpredictable field.
Among the contestants still competing are Julia Stiles, Giada De Laurentiis, Harry Shum Jr., Taylor Hanson, Tatyana Ali, Jenna Dewan, Amber Glenn, Ezra Frech, Sarah Jane Nader, Connor Wood, Conner Leavitt, Tyler Cameron, Jackson Olson, Ciara Miller and Maura Higgins.
Frech’s continued presence may make the competition especially personal for Rodriguez, who now plans to spend time with the Paralympic track and field athlete away from the show. Wood, known online as Fibula, is also among the contestants hoping to impress viewers and judges in upcoming performances.
The Guillermo Rodriguez DWTS elimination changes the season’s lineup, but it does not erase the impact of his run. His partnership with Carson produced an uplifting story about taking on a difficult challenge, while his friendships with fellow contestants proved that reality competition can create connections beyond the stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Guillermo Rodriguez eliminated from Dancing With the Stars?
Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson were eliminated during the Oct. 13, 2026, episode of season 35.
What score did Guillermo Rodriguez receive?
Rodriguez and Carson earned 22 points for their salsa routine to Bad Bunny’s “Tití Me Preguntó.” It was the lowest score of the week.
Which contestants did Rodriguez become friends with?
Rodriguez said he formed lasting friendships with Ezra Frech and Connor Wood. He also said they exchanged numbers and planned to meet for lunch.
Was Witney Carson pregnant during the competition?
Yes. Carson competed while 20 weeks pregnant with her third baby, which she described as an empowering experience.
