Entertainment Newz Update: 4th place finish for DWTS fave Aly Raisman

4th place finish for DWTS fave Aly Raisman

Needham Olympic gymnastics champion Aly Raisman fell short of her goal of winning “Dancing With the Stars” last night, finishing fourth with pro partner Mark Ballas. Country music singer Kellie Pickler, along with partner Derek Hough, claimed the 16th season championship of the ABC talent competition. “This is amazing! Oh,  my God,” Kellie blurted  after host Tom Bergeron  announced her victory. Runner-up Zendaya led by one judges’ point through the final round, but viewer votes counted for half the final score. This win marks Hough’s fourth, a record for the franchise. In what truly was the “cruelest cut,” Aly was eliminated 20 minutes into the bloated two-hour finale and had to return after the commercial break to appear in a group number celebrating the female finalists. “I’m just sad it’s over,” Aly told the Herald after the show. “This has been the best experience ever. I’m going to miss everyone so much.” Conspiracy buffs have plenty to chew on. Bergeron announced  that due to a glitch that prevented East Coast viewers from voting Monday night on ABC.com, all votes on the web site would be discarded and only votes via text, phone or Facebook would be considered. Asked how that hiccup might have affected her standings, Aly said, “It is what it is. I’m so happy for Kellie and Derek. The most important thing for me is that I had fun. I got fourth, and that’s OK.” To get to the results, viewers had to sit through filler punctuated by musical performances from Wynonna Judd, Psy, Pitbull and Jessica Sanchez. The judges were in a generous mood, giving the three remaining finalists — including NFL Super Bowl champion Jacoby Jones, who finished third, perfect scores for their instant dances. As for what might be next for her in the entertainment world, Aly said, “I don’t know. I like to take things one day at a time.” Her growth as a performer was one of the most remarkable arcs of the season. She needn’t hang up her shoes because “Dancing” is over. Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance” could always  use a celebrity mentor for  its contestants.