Ballando con le stelle sparks controversy over judge's critique

The premiere of the 2026 season of 'Ballando con le stelle' has sparked significant controversy following comments made by judge Barbara d'Urso. During a tango performance by contestants Ornella Muti and Pasquale La Rocca, d'Urso criticized the act for a perceived lack of passion, stating, “I don't know what I should be jealous of,” in response to suggestions that her critique stemmed from her previous dancing partnership with La Rocca.

Pasquale La Rocca expressed disappointment, calling the critique “not very objective” and suggesting it felt premeditated. Ornella Muti responded by noting that one cannot please everyone and has since engaged with social media users who criticized d'Urso, further fueling speculation of tension between the judge and the contestants.

Other figures have weighed in on the dispute. Milly Carlucci commented on the potential for a “triangle” of tension, while Guillermo Mariotto criticized d'Urso for making comparisons between her own past performances and the current contestants. Additionally, Raimondo Todaro criticized La Rocca for not addressing his grievances directly to the jury during the live broadcast.