Ezra Sosa Takes Center Stage: Partnering with Charity Lawson on DWTS After Artem Chigvintsev’s COVID-19 Diagnosis

The glitzy ballroom of Dancing With the Stars is no stranger to unexpected twists, but few are as impactful as a last-minute partner change. During the highly anticipated October 3 episode, Latin Night brought an unforeseen challenge for Bachelorette star Charity Lawson. With professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev testing positive for COVID-19, the show called upon a familiar face from within the DWTS family: Ezra Sosa. This sudden change thrusts Sosa, a talented choreographer and former troupe member, into the spotlight, promising an intriguing dynamic as he steps in to perform a cha-cha with Lawson. This article delves into who Ezra Sosa is, his journey within the dance world, and the implications of this pivotal moment for both Charity Lawson and the competition.

• Ezra Sosa is stepping in as Charity Lawson’s dance partner.
• He is currently an associate choreographer for Dancing With the Stars season 32.
• Ezra has a close friendship with DWTS alum and pop sensation JoJo Siwa.
• This marks a significant moment for Ezra, transitioning from behind-the-scenes to a prominent role on the dance floor.

The announcement came just hours before the live broadcast, sending ripples of anticipation and concern through the Dancing With the Stars community. Charity Lawson, known for her grace and determination, faced the daunting task of adapting to a new partner on one of the most demanding nights of the competition – Latin Night. Fortunately, Ezra Sosa, a familiar and highly respected talent within the DWTS fold, was ready to rise to the occasion. The 22-year-old dancer, already deeply integrated into the show’s production, quickly embraced the challenge, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to the series.

So, who is Ezra Sosa, the dynamic dancer making headlines? Born and raised in Utah, Ezra has an impressive background that showcases his passion and prowess for dance. His journey from a competitive dancer to a integral part of the Dancing With the Stars creative team is a testament to his hard work and talent. Let’s delve deeper into Ezra’s life, his career trajectory, and the reasons why he is the perfect individual to step into this critical role alongside Charity Lawson this week.

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Ezra Sosa Steps In for Artem Chigvintsev Amid COVID-19 Battle

The primary reason for Ezra Sosa’s sudden appearance on the dance floor is the unfortunate news that veteran professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev, 41, tested positive for COVID-19. Artem, who was partnered with Charity Lawson for Season 32, announced his absence from the October 3 episode via an emotional Instagram video. In his post, Artem expressed his deep regret and frustration, writing, “So sad to announce but here it comes I will not be performing with @charitylawson tonight on @dancingwiththestars due to Covid (Covid sucks).”

Despite his personal disappointment, Artem showed immense support for his partner and her temporary replacement. He continued, “But on a good news @charitylawson is still dancing tonight with amazing @ezra.sosa they had a tough week Ezra stepped in like a champ and they have been working really hard this last couple of days so please give them all the love and support you can…” This heartfelt message underscored the immense pressure and rapid adaptation required from both Charity and Ezra, who had only a minimal amount of time to rehearse their Latin Night cha-cha.

Ezra Sosa quickly responded to Artem’s post, demonstrating his respect and determination. “Gonna do my best to make you proud Artem!” he commented, highlighting his commitment to honor Artem’s hard work and dedication. On his Instagram Story, Ezra further elaborated on the unexpected opportunity and his solidarity with Charity: “As exciting as I am for this opportunity I know the situation is a tough one for my partner, gonna be there with you every step of the way Charity, and gonna do my best to make Artem proud!!! LETS GO!” His words reflect a mature understanding of the circumstances and a genuine desire to support Charity through this unforeseen challenge, ensuring she can still shine on the dance floor.

Ezra’s Crucial Role Behind the Scenes on DWTS Season 32

Ezra Sosa is far from a newcomer to the Dancing With the Stars universe. His journey with the show began in season 30 as a vibrant member of the professional troupe, where he showcased his versatility and stage presence in various group numbers and specialty performances. However, for season 32, Ezra has taken on a different, yet equally vital, role: he is working diligently behind the camera as an associate choreographer. This transition allowed him to gain valuable experience in the creative and technical aspects of staging spectacular dance routines, further deepening his understanding of the show’s intricate demands.

As an associate choreographer for the season 32 opening number, Ezra played a crucial role in bringing the show’s grand spectacle to life. This position involves assisting the lead choreographers, refining movements, teaching steps to the dancers, and ensuring every detail of the performance is executed flawlessly. It’s a role that demands not only exceptional dance skills but also strong leadership, creativity, and adaptability – qualities that are now serving him well as he steps into a performing capacity. Ezra himself reflected on this backstage experience, sharing on Instagram, “Even though my journey on the show has taken me behind the cameras this season, I love this family more than anything and I’m so excited to get to learn grow and watch all the incredible pros and stars this season!” His deep connection to the DWTS family and his multifaceted experience make him an invaluable asset to the production, and now, a truly exciting temporary pro partner.

Ezra Sosa’s Competitive Background on So You Think You Can Dance

Long before his contributions to Dancing With the Stars, Ezra Sosa made a significant impact on another major dance competition series: So You Think You Can Dance. In season 16 of the acclaimed show, Ezra was a prominent contestant, showcasing his remarkable talent, versatility, and captivating stage presence. He navigated through rigorous auditions and challenging themed weeks, ultimately securing a spot in the highly competitive Top 6. This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering he was just 18 years old at the time, demonstrating a maturity and skill level far beyond his years.

His journey on So You Think You Can Dance was also a family affair, as he competed alongside his sister, Stephanie Sosa. Their shared passion for dance and mutual support added an extra layer of depth to their performances, captivating audiences and judges alike. The experience on SYTYCD not only honed Ezra’s technical abilities across various dance styles but also taught him invaluable lessons about performing under pressure, collaborating with different partners, and rapidly learning complex choreography – all skills that are now directly applicable to his role on Dancing With the Stars.

A Notable Friendship: Ezra Sosa and JoJo Siwa

Ezra Sosa’s connections within the dance and entertainment industry extend beyond the DWTS ballroom. He shares a close friendship with fellow dancer and pop culture icon, JoJo Siwa, who herself was a memorable contestant on Dancing With the Stars. Their bond highlights Ezra’s social integration within the vibrant community of young, talented performers. In 2022, Ezra joined JoJo on her highly successful D.R.E.A.M. The Tour, a testament to his professional caliber and their personal camaraderie. Touring with a major artist like JoJo Siwa provided Ezra with extensive experience performing for large audiences and maintaining high energy levels across multiple shows.

Their friendship is well-documented on social media, with Ezra frequently posting numerous photos and videos of himself and JoJo, 20, on his Instagram page. These glimpses into their shared moments, both on and off stage, reveal a genuine connection and mutual respect. This friendship with a DWTS alum further solidifies Ezra’s position within the show’s extended family and demonstrates his ability to connect with diverse personalities, a crucial skill for any professional dancer on such a high-profile show. It also speaks volumes about his character and how well-regarded he is by his peers in the competitive dance world.

Ezra Sosa’s Inspiring Roots: From Utah to the National Stage

Ezra Sosa’s personal story is as compelling as his dance career, rooted deeply in his family’s immigrant journey and the vibrant community of Provo, Utah, where he was raised. His family background offers a powerful narrative of resilience, determination, and the unifying power of dance. His father, Enrique, immigrated to the United States from Argentina, bringing with him a strong work ethic and a passion for sports, serving as a soccer coach for Brigham Young University. His mother, Lucrecia, journeyed to the United States from Mexico, contributing her own cultural heritage and strength to the family’s foundation.

Ezra has openly spoken about the profound impact of his heritage on his life and career. In a 2019 interview with The Salt Lake Tribune, he shared, “Yes, I came from two immigrant parents. But we just really want America to see the blessing that dance was for us. And a lot of the time, all we had was dance and each other. Dance is what kept my family going.” This powerful statement encapsulates the essence of his upbringing – a life where dance wasn’t just a hobby but a lifeline, a source of joy, and a unifying force that strengthened family bonds and provided a path for expression and opportunity. His parents’ sacrifices and their unwavering support instilled in Ezra a deep appreciation for hard work and the belief that anything is possible with dedication.

This rich cultural background undoubtedly fuels Ezra’s artistry, infusing his performances with passion, storytelling, and an emotional depth that resonates with audiences. His ability to connect with his roots while embracing diverse dance forms makes him a truly unique and inspiring figure in the dance community. As he steps onto the Dancing With the Stars stage with Charity Lawson, he carries not just his individual talent but also the powerful narrative of his family, showcasing how determination and a love for dance can overcome any challenge.

The Impact on Charity Lawson and the DWTS Competition

A last-minute partner change is one of the most stressful scenarios a celebrity contestant can face on Dancing With the Stars. For Charity Lawson, who has already demonstrated remarkable potential this season, this situation presents a significant hurdle. She must quickly establish chemistry, learn new phrasing, and adapt to Ezra’s distinct dance style, all while maintaining the high standards expected by the judges on a crucial Latin Night. The cha-cha, in particular, requires sharp movements, precise timing, and an undeniable flair, making the rapid adaptation even more challenging.

However, Charity’s resilience, honed through her journey as The Bachelorette, along with Ezra’s extensive experience and adaptability, offers a promising outlook. Ezra’s familiarity with the show’s format, his skills as a choreographer, and his ability to quickly connect with partners will be invaluable in guiding Charity through this unexpected turn. This partnership, albeit temporary, could also highlight Charity’s versatility and mental fortitude, earning her admiration from both the judges and the audience. It’s a true test of a celebrity’s ability to thrive under pressure, and with Ezra’s supportive and professional guidance, they have every chance to turn this challenge into a triumph.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Ezra’s Future on DWTS

Ezra Sosa’s unexpected return to the Dancing With the Stars main stage is more than just a temporary fill-in; it’s a significant moment that could shape his future with the franchise. Stepping in for a beloved pro like Artem Chigvintsev and performing with a high-profile celebrity like Charity Lawson offers Ezra an unprecedented opportunity to showcase his talent, professionalism, and readiness for a permanent professional role. If he and Charity deliver a memorable performance, it could firmly establish him as a fan favorite and a strong contender for a regular professional spot in future seasons.

The DWTS production team consistently seeks fresh talent that can connect with audiences and elevate the show. Ezra’s journey from troupe member to associate choreographer, and now to temporary pro, demonstrates a natural progression within the show’s ranks. This Latin Night performance provides a unique audition, proving his capability not just as a dancer but as a leader and a supportive partner. Regardless of the outcome of this specific dance, Ezra Sosa has undeniably seized a moment that could significantly propel his career and solidify his position as one of the most exciting young talents in professional ballroom dance.