Julia Stiles and her “Dancing With the Stars” partner Ezra Sosa became emotional in interviews after their elimination during Monday’s Disney Night. The pair finished in eighth place in Season 35 of the ABC competition.
Speaking to ABC’s “On the Red Carpet,” Stiles described her time on the show as an incredible experience and said she was glad they ended with a strong performance: a paso doble to “Satisfied” from “Hamilton.” She added that she would miss seeing Sosa every day.
Sosa said Stiles had made him a better person, teacher and choreographer. He also praised her openness and honesty, saying he felt fortunate to have partnered with her.
In an interview with “Entertainment Tonight,” Stiles said the show had given her confidence and strength. She also reflected that she had found abilities in herself she had not known were there, and called it an honor to have danced with Sosa throughout the season.
Stiles competed despite a recurring rib injury and cried from pain during rehearsals for Monday’s show. The week before the elimination, she and Sosa had spoken publicly about tensions during practice. Stiles joked that he was being a “cranky bitch,” while Sosa acknowledged he had pushed her too far and said he knew what she could achieve.
Sources: Page Six.