StarDance XIV Opens Season as Hosts Eben and Kostkova Begin Run
The fourteenth season of the Czech television dance competition StarDance opened its first competitive evening with ten celebrity and professional pairs taking to the floor, even as structural changes loom for the popular format. Marek Eben and Tereza Kostkova are fronting the program, but then we can look forward to new faces. While the season’s opening night traditionally features no elimination by the judges or public vote, an early departure struck the lineup immediately due to a severe injury.
The unexpected medical exit leaves nine couples remaining on paper for the second week of competition, though further health complications threaten to shrink the roster even further.
Jandová and Prágr Face Health Uncertainty Ahead of Week Two
Marta Jandová and professional partner Martin Prágr opened the premiere evening with a cha-cha, earning a combined score of 18 points from the judging panel. The pair received marks of 5 from Richard Genzer, 4 from Tatiana Drexler, 5 from Jana Burkiewiczová, and 4 from returning judge Zdeněk Chlopčík. However, their participation in the upcoming Saturday broadcast remains in serious doubt after Jandová developed a high fever and Prágr also encountered health difficulties.
The situation leaves the show’s producers facing a potential withdrawal before the first competitive elimination takes place. While other pairs managed to complete their routines safely, the double medical threat places the immediate schedule under intense scrutiny.
Judges Score Matonoha, Tomášová, and Dyk in Opening Performances
Actor Tomáš Matonoha and partner Lenka Nora Návorková surprised the judges during their waltz with precise footwork and knee action, earning a total of 23 points, with scores of 7 from Genzer, 6 from Drexler, 6 from Burkiewiczová, and 4 from Chlopčík. Judges noted that while his upper frame looked somewhat stiff, his technical execution exceeded expectations for a debut.
Luciana Tomášová and Robin Ondráček delivered a samba that earned 27 points, receiving 7s from Genzer, Burkiewiczová, and Chlopčík, alongside a 6 from Drexler. Reviewers highlighted Tomášová’s musicality and natural hip movement during the demanding Latin routine.
Musician Vojtěch Dyk and partner Catharina Málek closed out notable performances with a samba that showcased strong rhythm and body control despite Dyk’s height presenting a traditional challenge for standard and Latin choreography. The judges rewarded the pair with 30 points, consisting of 8s from Genzer and Burkiewiczová, and 7s from Drexler and Chlopčík.
Frequently Asked Questions About StarDance XIV
Who is judging the fourteenth season of StarDance?
The panel features returning judges Zdeněk Chlopčík and Tatiana Drexler, comedian Richard Genzer, and new addition Jana Burkiewiczová, a choreographer who evaluates dances as complete theatrical performances.
How did Marta Jandová and Martin Prágr perform on opening night?
The pair opened the evening with a cha-cha that earned 18 points from the judges, but their continued participation in the second week is currently threatened by sudden illness.
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