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DonSense: Many congratulations to Dad
By Don Osmond
deseretnews.com blogger
Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009
When "Dancing With The Stars" began more than two months ago, 16 couples jockeyed for a finalist spot. Now, after 10 weeks of rehearsals, performances and eliminations, this week's spotlight rested upon Mya, Kelly Osbourne and Donny Osmond.

Monday night's performances kept the heat on the dance floor as the competition came to a close. Looking at the finalist lineup, all three were deserving of the coveted mirror-ball trophy, but for different reasons.

Throughout this season, Mya displayed continually her dancing prowess with grace and elegance. Her unwavering ability to execute sophisticated routines week after week proved what an amazing dancer she is. And, how could we forget ... how did judge Len Goodman put it? Her "Tutti-frutti what a booty" moves. She definitely proved to be a veritable opponent for Kelly and Donny -- both of whom have stories so different that they're nearly opposites.



Kelly's inaugural performance on "Dancing With The Stars" captivated viewers from the get-go, endearing her to each. A true Cinderella story unfolded as we watched, with amazement, the young "wild child" (judge Bruno's term of endearment) blossomed into feminine elegance. However, leaving a visible portion of her disposition, a touch peppered with edginess, portrayed to each of us that she never compromised her real self in order to be a contender during this show.

(Note: Sitting next to Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne during nearly every performance, I could see her parents' excitement. Kelly told me later that she never imagined making it this far. She said, "There are far better dancers than me on this show.")

Donny's years of experience in the entertainment business gave him a competitive edge. He played to the audience, giving them the show they wanted. As an entertainment icon, with more years in the business than both Kelly and Mya combined, he rallied his fans to vote for him on week after week. This was especially true after a near disaster in the semi-finals. In the end, it was all worth it as Bruno commended the veteran performer for being "a credit to the profession."

This show demanded a lot from each celebrity; however, in the end there can be only one winner. And, that winner is Donny Osmond. By the way, did I mention that's my dad! This evening was a proud moment for my family and me as we rushed the dance floor at the end of the show to share in our father's excitement.

As a personal note: It was so much fun to watch my father every week. Although it was extremely demanding on both him and our family, we're all glad that he had the opportunity to participate in such an amazing show.

I, too, have enjoyed my time being in Los Angeles on the show's set, meandering around and making new friends:

Louie Vito -- We'll get you in a bobsled this season; just don't tell your coaches. They might get a little nervous if we do that before your snowboarding trials.

Mark Dacascos -- Please don't go to the producers of "Dancing With The Stars" with your idea. There's no way I could do as well as my father did this season.

Kelly Osbourne -- I'm thinking we'll have an Osbourne/Osmond Thanksgiving dinner. Thoughts?

If I keep going, my editor will kill me. Suffice it to say, I had a wonderful time this season, and will miss everyone I met on the "Dancing With The Stars" set. Keep in touch!



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