Kristin Cavallari was given the boot during a shock Dancing With The Stars elimination on Tuesday evening (4th October 2011). Although the show is often considered a popularity contest, rather than a dance competition, viewers reacted angrily to the decision given Cavallari's strong routines and excellent scores.
CBS News described the decision as "nonsensical, asinine, ludicrous, demented", highlighting the moment when Chaz Bono was "swiftly told he and partner Lacey Schwimmer would be wafting along to the next round", as particularly bizarre. Despite his charm, Bono is regarded as one of the weakest dancers in the competition. A calm looking Cavallari was pitted against soccer star Hope Solo in the final two, but "suddenly looked miserable" when told she would be leaving the competition. Head judge Len Goodman branded the decision "madness", while Cavallari looked shocked before announcing, "I'm a little surprised, to be honest". Attempting to defuse the tense situation, host Tom Bergeron said, "My guess is people said they're fine", suggesting viewers hadn't bothered to pick up their phones and vote. Speaking to Twitter followers after the show, Cavallari said, "I honestly love u guys. I've been reading ur tweets and it means the world to me. I'm so freakin sad! But I had the best experience".
'The Hills' star hit the headlines on Monday evening after ex-fiance Jay Cutler was spotted in the audience. The Chicago Bears quarterback was clapping enthusiastically after Kristin's routine and the couple were later photographed holding hands in Los Angeles.