Lindsay Arnold Reflects on Controversial DWTS Season with Sean Spicer and Her Enduring Professional Journey
During a high-profile launch event for her elegant new line of L.A.C. barrettes at the chic Bomane Salon in Beverly Hills, professional dancer Lindsay Arnold sat down for an exclusive interview with HollywoodLife. The conversation naturally turned to her memorable and often debated partnership with former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer on the 28th season of Dancing With The Stars. Their pairing instantly became one of the most talked-about storylines of the season, igniting discussions not just about dance, but also about politics, public perception, and the unique dynamics of reality television.
Lindsay, a veteran pro known for her graceful routines and ability to guide her celebrity partners to success, found herself in an unprecedented spotlight when she was paired with Sean Spicer. His casting alone sparked considerable debate among viewers, given his polarizing public persona. Yet, through it all, Arnold maintained her professional composure, focusing on the core mission of the show: teaching dance and fostering a transformative experience for her partner. Her insights from that season provide a compelling look into the world of reality television, the power of public opinion, and her unwavering dedication to her craft.
The Unexpected Partnership: Sean Spicer on DWTS
The announcement of Dancing With The Stars Season 28 cast was met with the usual buzz and excitement, but one name, in particular, sent shockwaves through the entertainment and political spheres: Sean Spicer. As the former White House Press Secretary under President Donald Trump, Spicer’s inclusion in a lighthearted dance competition show was an unconventional choice, immediately drawing both fervent interest and sharp criticism. Lindsay Arnold, a fan-favorite pro dancer, was tasked with guiding him through the intricate routines.
From the moment the pairings were revealed, the duo of Lindsay Arnold and Sean Spicer became a focal point. Media outlets dissected the decision, and social media platforms buzzed with opinions. Many questioned the appropriateness of a political figure, especially one who had been at the center of such intense public scrutiny, participating in a show traditionally known for its escapist entertainment. Yet, this very controversy inadvertently set the stage for one of DWTS’s most compelling and watched seasons, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected pairings generate the most compelling television.
President Trump’s Viral Support: A Game-Changer
The conversation with HollywoodLife quickly moved to a truly astonishing aspect of their season: the direct involvement of the President of the United States. “He did , which is insane, I mean, the President of the United States is tweeting about Dancing With The Stars and asking people to vote for my partner,” Lindsay shared, still conveying a sense of disbelief regarding the unprecedented event. This wasn’t merely a casual mention; President Trump actively encouraged his millions of followers on Twitter to vote for Sean Spicer, a move that undoubtedly had a significant impact on the show’s voting landscape.
Lindsay acknowledged the profound effect of such high-profile endorsement. “Obviously I’m sure that helped,” she stated, recognizing the unique advantage their partnership gained. This intervention blurred the lines between politics and entertainment in a way rarely seen before, drawing immense attention to the show and Sean’s journey. The President’s tweets transformed DWTS into a topic of national conversation beyond its usual viewership, injecting an unpredictable element into the competition that transcended typical fan engagement. It highlighted the immense power of social media and political endorsements in shaping public opinion and, ultimately, reality television outcomes.
The dynamic was intriguing: judges consistently placed Sean at the bottom of the scoreboard each week due to his technical dance abilities, yet he continued to survive elimination, week after week. This phenomenon underscored the immense influence of viewer votes, particularly when galvanized by a figure as prominent as a sitting president. It became a powerful demonstration of how audience appeal, combined with a unique narrative, can often outweigh strict technical proficiency in a popularity-driven competition.
Beyond the Scores: Sean’s Unexpected Appeal to Viewers
Despite being at the bottom of the judges’ scoreboard almost every week, Sean Spicer defied expectations, managing to hang on until the semi-finals. This remarkable longevity was largely attributed to the overwhelming support from viewer votes. While President Trump’s massive Twitter following surely contributed to this surge in votes, Lindsay Arnold also credited Sean’s own demeanor and a particular, memorable costume choice for his extended run on the show.
“I think a lot of people enjoyed watching him go for it,” Lindsay explained. Her insight points to a common thread in reality television: audiences often connect more with authenticity, effort, and a good attitude than with flawless performance. Sean, a complete novice to dance, never pretended to be a professional. Instead, he embraced the challenge with a noticeable enthusiasm and a willingness to put himself out there, week after week, despite the often harsh critiques from the judges.
The Iconic Green Ruffle: A Symbol of Dedication
One particular moment that seemed to encapsulate Sean’s journey and endear him to the audience was his first dance in a vibrant, almost neon, green ruffled shirt. It was a costume that, by Lindsay’s admission, Sean was initially hesitant about. “I think the green ruffle he wore also helped,” Lindsay mused. “He was a little hesitant on that, but then he was on board after it.” This small detail became a significant symbol. It represented Sean’s willingness to step completely out of his comfort zone, to shed his serious political persona, and fully immerse himself in the theatricality and fun of Dancing With The Stars.
Viewers appreciated this vulnerability and self-awareness. Lindsay observed, “I think people like to see other people not taking themselves too seriously and I think that’s what really got people to enjoy watching him all season.” In a world often characterized by rigid public images, Sean’s ability to laugh at himself, accept criticism with a smile, and fully commit to the outlandish costumes and routines resonated deeply. The green ruffle, in essence, became an emblem of his journey – a testament to his courage to be authentic and embrace the sheer entertainment value of the show, proving that sometimes, the most memorable moments are born from unexpected choices.
Lindsay’s Professionalism Amidst the Backlash
The decision to cast Sean Spicer on season 28 of DWTS certainly drew strong opposition, with many viewers expressing their discomfort with his presence on the show. However, Lindsay Arnold, ever the consummate professional, refused to let the political backlash deter her from her core responsibilities as a dance instructor and partner. Her approach was grounded in a philosophy of seeing the individual beyond their public persona.
“My personality is I just like to see people as people and I like to get my own opinion of people and what I feel about them,” Lindsay shared. This mindset allowed her to approach the partnership with an open mind, focusing solely on the task at hand: teaching Sean Spicer how to dance. She understood the external noise but chose to create an environment where her partner could learn and grow, irrespective of his past or public perception. This unwavering professionalism is a hallmark of Lindsay’s career, enabling her to forge strong bonds with diverse partners over the years.
The Joy of Progression: From Novice to Semi-Finalist
Lindsay was clear-eyed about the challenge ahead, knowing Sean’s lack of dance experience was no secret. “That wasn’t a secret. It wasn’t like, Oh, maybe he’ll be okay. I knew it was going to be rough,” she admitted. From day one, both she and Sean joked about the long road ahead, acknowledging the steep learning curve. Yet, this is precisely what Lindsay cherishes most about Dancing With The Stars: its power to transform individuals who have never danced before.
“What I love about it most is that you truly can take somebody who has never had dance experience and teach them to dance,” she explained. “It may not be the best dance that anybody’s ever seen, but they’ll be able to do it.” Lindsay finds immense satisfaction in witnessing the progression of her partners, and with Sean, this journey was particularly rewarding. Despite the initial skepticism and low scores, his dedication and her expert guidance led to significant improvements.
Their journey to the semi-finals was a testament to this progression, surprising many who never expected them to make it that far. “I don’t think people expected to see us making it that far and I don’t think people expected him to even be able to do half of the things that he did. That was really cool,” Lindsay reflected. This unforeseen success underscored the magic of DWTS – its ability to inspire, entertain, and showcase the personal growth of its participants, proving that with effort and the right guidance, anyone can learn to dance, defying all expectations.
The Enduring Appeal of Dancing With The Stars
The season featuring Lindsay Arnold and Sean Spicer serves as a perfect illustration of why Dancing With The Stars has remained a beloved fixture on television for so long. It’s more than just a dance competition; it’s a spectacle of personal transformation, unexpected pairings, and the triumph of the human spirit. The show masterfully combines the glitter and glamour of ballroom dance with compelling personal narratives, allowing audiences to witness celebrities step far outside their comfort zones and embark on a journey of growth.
The power of audience voting is a crucial element that distinguishes DWTS. While judges provide technical critiques, the ultimate fate of the contestants often rests in the hands of the viewers. This dynamic creates an emotional connection between the celebrities and the public, fostering an environment where an underdog with heart and determination can often outlast more technically skilled dancers. The Sean Spicer season highlighted this phenomenon brilliantly, demonstrating how a compelling personality and genuine effort can resonate more deeply with viewers than mere perfection.
Furthermore, DWTS has a unique ability to bring together individuals from vastly different backgrounds, forcing them into a collaborative and often vulnerable creative process. These unlikely partnerships frequently spark engaging discussions and, as seen with Lindsay and Sean, can even transcend the typical boundaries of entertainment, touching upon broader cultural and political conversations. The show’s enduring appeal lies in its capacity to entertain, inspire, and occasionally, provoke thought, making each season a memorable journey for both participants and viewers alike.
Lindsay Arnold’s Continued Legacy and Current Ventures
Reflecting on her experience with Sean Spicer, Lindsay Arnold consistently highlights the positive aspects – the progression, the effort, and the unique challenges that ultimately made her a better dancer and teacher. Her ability to navigate a politically charged partnership with grace and professionalism speaks volumes about her character and dedication to her art. It’s a testament to her philosophy of focusing on the individual and the transformative power of dance.
Today, Lindsay continues to inspire both on and off the dance floor. Her launch of the L.A.C. line of barrettes signifies another exciting chapter in her entrepreneurial journey, showcasing her creativity and business acumen beyond her celebrated dance career. Just as she guides her partners through complex routines, she now guides her own brand, infusing it with the same passion and dedication that have defined her professional life. The lessons learned from a season as dynamic as her partnership with Sean Spicer undoubtedly contributed to her resilience and versatile spirit, proving that for Lindsay Arnold, every challenge is an opportunity for growth and success.