Emma Slater Refuses to Dwell on 'Stingy' DWTS Judges' Scores

Emma Slater isn't letting a tough night in the ballroom crush her spirit. The veteran *Dancing With the Stars* professional dancer is speaking out after facing surprisingly harsh feedback from the judges' table, insisting that she refuses to get dragged down by tough scoring. Competing this season alongside her partner Jackson Olson, Slater had high hopes for their recent routine. The duo stepped onto the ballroom floor aiming to stand out from the rest of the cast. However, when the judges held up their paddles, the scores were noticeably lower than what the pair had worked so hard to earn.

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Addressing the critical marks, Slater candidly shared that she is working hard not to obsess over the low points. According to reports, the pro dancer specifically reflected on the strict feedback dished out by longtime judge Carrie Ann Inaba, acknowledging that while stingy scores can feel like a total buzzkill, dwelling on negative numbers won't help her team grow. Instead of sulking over the tough room, Slater is turning the judges' harsh critique into motivation. She noted that her primary focus remains on keeping Olson confident, energized, and ready to tackle the next style of dance. For Slater, protecting her celebrity partner's enthusiasm and drive is far more important than spiraling over a single night's disappointment.

BUZZBEAT

The journey on *Dancing With the Stars* is notoriously unpredictable, where one underwhelming score can easily spark a massive comeback story. Slater and Olson are already back in the studio, putting in long hours of practice to polish up their technique, footwork, and performance flair. With the competition heating up each week, winning over tough judges like Inaba will be crucial for the pair's survival in the ballroom. Whether the judging panel decides to loosen up their scorecards for the next routine remains to be seen, but Slater is determined to prove that she and Olson belong at the top of the leaderboard.