In an emotional twist on Tuesday night’s episode, Andy Richter and his professional partner Emma Slater were eliminated from Dancing With the Stars Season 34. For those asking “who left Dancing With the Stars tonight,” the answer is clear — Andy and Emma were sent home following the Week 9 performances, which marked the show’s 20th-birthday celebration episode.
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On November 11, 2025, Dancing With the Stars celebrated two decades of dazzling performances with a spectacular 20th-birthday-themed show. The ballroom was filled with nostalgia, guest appearances from former contestants, and unforgettable dances.
Despite the festive mood, one pair had to say goodbye. Andy Richter and Emma Slater ended their journey after landing at the bottom of the combined judges’ and audience scores. Their elimination came as a surprise to some viewers, who praised the pair for showing consistent improvement over the weeks.
Andy, best known for his quick wit and comedic timing, shared heartfelt words after his elimination, thanking Emma for her patience, talent, and positivity. He said the experience pushed him outside his comfort zone and gave him newfound respect for professional dancers.
The 20th-Birthday Party Theme
Week 9’s episode of Dancing With the Stars was unlike any other. The ballroom was transformed into a grand birthday celebration for the long-running series, complete with balloons, confetti, and a look back at some of the show’s most iconic moments from its 20-year history.
The episode featured nostalgic tributes, clips of past winners, and several perfect scores from the remaining contestants. Judges praised the energy and emotion that filled the ballroom, calling it one of the most vibrant nights of the season.
However, even amid all the perfect tens and standing ovations, the competition remained fierce. With the semi-finals just around the corner, every point mattered — and unfortunately, Andy Richter and Emma Slater’s score wasn’t enough to keep them safe.
How the Elimination Happened
After all the couples performed their routines, the judges’ scores were combined with viewer votes to determine which team would go home. When host Alfonso Ribeiro announced the results, tension filled the ballroom.
Andy and Emma found themselves in the bottom two alongside another fan-favorite duo. The judges expressed admiration for Andy’s growth throughout the season but ultimately confirmed that his run had come to an end.
Emma Slater, a seasoned pro and former champion, praised Andy’s humor and dedication, saying he brought joy to every rehearsal and reminded everyone that dance is about fun as much as it is about competition.
Highlights from Week 9
The 20th-birthday episode was one of the season’s most eventful nights, filled with memorable performances and standout moments:
- Four couples received perfect scores, a rare achievement that set the bar high for the remaining contestants.
- A special relay dance round gave everyone a chance to earn extra points, intensifying the leaderboard competition.
- Returning alumni and guest dancers made appearances to celebrate the show’s two-decade legacy.
- Andy and Emma’s final performance, a playful and heartfelt dance, received praise for creativity and charm, even if the technical scores fell short.
By the end of the night, the leaderboard was tight, but Andy and Emma’s combined total placed them just below the cut-off for the next round.
Where the Competition Stands Now
With Week 9 behind them, only a handful of couples remain in the race for the Mirrorball Trophy. The competition will now move into the semi-final stage, where performances are expected to be more technically demanding and emotionally charged.
Fans are already predicting which duos will make it to the finale, and social media buzzed with mixed reactions to Andy’s exit. Many viewers expressed disappointment, saying his charisma and humor added warmth to the show, while others applauded the remaining contestants for their consistency and skill.
As the show nears its conclusion, each performance could be the difference between a spot in the finale or a farewell dance.
A Look Back at Andy and Emma’s Journey
Andy Richter joined Dancing With the Stars as one of Season 34’s most entertaining celebrity contestants. Known for his comedic background, he brought humor to every performance but also showed steady improvement with each passing week.
His partnership with Emma Slater, who has previously danced with stars like James Van Der Beek and Rashad Jennings, became one of the season’s most endearing pairings. Together, they balanced lighthearted fun with genuine effort, showcasing a bond that resonated with fans.
Their routines ranged from playful cha-chas to emotional contemporary numbers. Although they rarely topped the leaderboard, they consistently earned praise for their storytelling and chemistry.
Looking Ahead
Next week’s semi-finals promise high energy, new choreography, and tougher judging. With only the strongest contenders left, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Fans will be watching closely to see who continues to rise to the occasion — and who might be the next to fall short.
For now, though, the spotlight briefly turns to Andy and Emma, whose journey may have ended but whose joy and humor left a lasting mark on Season 34.
For everyone asking “who left Dancing With the Stars tonight,” it was Andy Richter and Emma Slater — but their laughter, determination, and charm will be remembered long after their final dance.