Former ‘Dancing’ Runner-Up Mel B Shares Her Thoughts On Bolton-gate & Former Partner Maksim

Mel B, star of the new reality show, “Mel B: It’s a Scary World” on Style Network, stopped by Access Hollywood Live on Wednesday to dish about everything “Dancing” – including the recent controversy surrounding Michael Bolton’s harsh Monday night critique from judge Bruno Tonioli (and Michael’s subsequent departure).

“That show can be really stressful,” the “Dancing with the Stars” Season 5 runner-up told Access Hollywood Live’s Billy Bush and Kit Hoover on Wednesday, when asked if Michael Bolton deserved to be sent home. “You’re rehearsing every single day, and then you get like, scores that low — I can understand his feelings were hurt.”

“And then to be booted off? Not cool,” she laughed.

Though the “Dance Your A** Off” host sympathizes with the soft rock singer’s plight, she defended Bruno’s blunt tirade, in which he called Michael’s Monday night performance “the worst jive in 11 seasons.”

“Bruno’s Bruno. Come on,” Mel told Billy and Kit. “You’ve got to love him. At least he just says it how it is.”

When asked to reveal something about her former “Dancing” partner, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Mel shared that the hard-bodied pro is secretly a “sweetheart.”

“Max is a big, soft, cuddly teddy bear. He just gives that Russian front,” she said. “He’s really adorable. He gets really frustrated.”

“Don’t forget, these are professional dancers trying to teach non-professional dancers, so it can be really frustrating for the pro,” Mel added.

The sexy Spice Girl also has an idea for who should join the next round of “DWTS”: Access’ own Billy Bush.

“I think you should do it!” she told Billy.

“I’m the least limber guy in the world,” Billy laughed, before adding, “Although, I do have a couple of moves.”

“I’ve seen you throw down some moves – you’d be good,” Mel smiled.

As for who will take home “Dancing’s” coveted mirror ball trophy, Mel remained loyal to her former partner.

“That’s horrible and hard,” she exclaimed, when pushed to predict a Season 11 winner.

“Obviously I’m going to say Maks and Brandy!”

Copyright © 2024 by NBC Universal, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

This material may not be republished, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Read More

‘90 Day Fiancé: Love In Paradise’ Returning With Dramatic & Wild New Season