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Perry Cha-Chas to Low Score

Former Texas governor makes underwhelming debut on 'Dancing with the Stars'

By Alex Gangitano
Posted September 13, 2016 at 10:15am

Rick Perry didn’t have an “oops” moment — it was more like… “Meh.”

Perry’s cha-cha with partner Emma Slater on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” Season 23 premiere received an underwhelming four fives, one of the lowest scores of the night.

The western theme was complete with a projected Texas flag with stars and stripes inside of it on the ground and Perry had on a black jacket with white embroidery on the panels.

The judges called his performance pedestrian, and not very subtle.

They encouraged him to work on his timing, but were also very complimentary of the former governor for being on the show in the first place.

But, he was all smiles as he received his score and walked up to thank judge Julianne Hough on his way off the stage.

But, Perry found it a little easier than a presidential debate.

“Everybody knows I’m really passionate about our vets and that’s why I’m here,” the former Texas Governor said in an interview on the show before his turn on the floor.

Perry and Slater are calling themselves “Team Dance for Vets.”

“My daughter gets married the 15th of October and…this is really moving me along in an expeditious way,” he said, adding that he was going to ask ABC if he could wear the jacket he performed in at the wedding.

According to Slater, the two have been having a “riot” practicing.  

“I feel like Rick and I have known each other for years,” she said.

Despite his low score, he got endorsements from a couple of his opponents during the Republican primary.

During his interview, one of Fiorina’s tweets appeared and Perry responded by blowing a kiss and saying, “I love you Carly, you’re the best.” 

More love for Perry:

And not so much:

Later on the show, two protesters caused some drama when they ran on to the floor after Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte’s dance.

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