Maura Higgins was spotted fueling up with a banana while heading to rehearsals for ‘Dancing With The Stars’ in Los Angeles on Wednesday. The reality television personality, known for her appearance on ‘Love Island,’ is reportedly facing accusations of a ‘fix’ from unimpressed co-stars following her pairing with professional dancer Mark Ballas.
‘Fix’ Claims Emerge Over Maura Higgins’ Partnering
The 35-year-old Irish star has been paired with Mark Ballas, the son of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ judge Shirley Ballas. This partnership has allegedly caused friction among other contestants, who reportedly feel that Higgins is receiving preferential treatment. Sources suggest that Higgins was keen to be partnered with the popular Ballas and was reportedly against being paired with another professional, Gleb Savchenko, who is no longer with the show.
Further fueling the controversy, Higgins was seen socializing with judge Bruno Tonioli, posing arm-in-arm with him after a night out. This has led to speculation among cast members that Higgins is being ‘favored’ and potentially being set up for a win. One insider commented, “Maura’s been rubbing everyone up the wrong way, even before their first spray tans have dried. She was desperate to be partnered with Mark, who’s hugely popular.” Another source added, “It’s not gone unnoticed within the cast that she’s being favoured. It’s as if she’s being set up to win.”
Higgins’ Rehearsal Attire and Demeanor
Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, Higgins appeared to be in good spirits as she prepared for her training session. She was seen wearing a pair of black hotpants, a white zip-up sports jacket, black leg warmers, and grey sliders. She carried a large black tote bag and was observed checking her phone and using a vape while waiting to enter the rehearsal space. Higgins opted for a make-up-free look, with her dark hair pulled back into a bun.
Financial Incentives for Contestants
Beyond the competitive aspect, Higgins is reportedly set to earn a substantial sum from her participation in the show. Reports indicate a six-figure payday, with a base of £93,000 even if eliminated within the first two weeks. The earnings increase incrementally for each subsequent week she remains in the competition, with additional bonuses for reaching later stages of the season.
Broader Casting Controversies
The ‘fix’ allegations surrounding Maura Higgins are not the only casting controversy to surface for the 35th season of ‘Dancing With The Stars.’ Actress Jenna Dewan, known for her role in ‘Step Up,’ has also faced criticism and accusations of having an unfair advantage due to her professional dance background. Dewan began her career as a backup dancer for prominent artists like Janet Jackson and Christina Aguilera before starring in ‘Step Up’ alongside her then-husband Channing Tatum.
Addressing the backlash, Dewan stated, “I do not know how to ballroom dance. Let’s be clear. It’s two different languages. There’s parts of my dance training that’s helpful, obviously. I’ve learned choreography, I can perform, but there is a certain sense of unlearning for me.”
Other casting choices have also reportedly raised eyebrows. Tatyana Ali’s inclusion has been noted due to her close relationship with co-host Alfonso Ribeiro, with whom she starred as siblings in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.’ Whispers also circulate about contestants perceived as potential ‘fan favorites,’ such as Ciara Miller and Maura Higgins, whose previous reality TV experiences might give them an edge or generate public sympathy.
Conclusion
As ‘Dancing With The Stars’ gears up for its new season, the show is already generating significant buzz, not just for its performances but also for the alleged behind-the-scenes drama and casting controversies. Maura Higgins’ presence, coupled with the ‘fix’ claims and other contestants’ perceived advantages, sets the stage for a potentially eventful and talked-about season.
