Kel Mitchell Encourages People to "Chose Love" In an Emotional 'DWTS' Dance Dedicated to Victims of Gun Violence

    Laura Hanrahan
    Photo credit: Eric McCandless

    From Woman's Day

    Kel Mitchell has had a truly impressive arc on Dancing With the Stars, earning a spot as one of the most improved dancers on the show. In Monday night's semi-finals, he brought down the house with an emotional contemporary routine dedicated to victims of gun violence. There wasn't a dry eye in the house, and the routine received a standing ovation from everyone in the room, including the three judges.

    During the pre-taped package that aired before the routine, Mitchell explained that he lost one of his good friends to gun violence as a child, so the cause is one that is close to his heart.

    The routine, which was set to Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You," was packed with gorgeous movements and difficult lifts, and the judges couldn't give it enough praise. Judge Bruno Tonioli told Mitchell that his "progression through this competition has been inspiration" and that no matter what happens, Mitchell is a winner in his eyes. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba, who was brought to tears by the dance, told Mitchel "You tell a story, you express your feelings. Thank you for that."


    When it came time for judge Len Goodman to give his critique, he simply stood up and joined in on a standing ovation that the crowd was giving to the dancing duo.

    Following the dance, Mitchell sent a heartfelt message to any young person watching the show: "To any kid dealing with something right now, do not choose the gun. So not take your life. Choose love."

    Even those watching at home were moved by the contemporary routine, which earned a perfect score.

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