Do YOU think Bruno went too far with his over-the-top criticism of Michael?
Chalk it up to all his years on the NBA basketball court, because Rick Fox has perfected the art of sportsman-like conduct. When it comes to taking sides in Brunogate — the case of Dancing with the Stars judge Bruno Tonioli versus recently booted contestant Michael Bolton — he’s like Switzerland…totally unbiased.
“It’s the harshest I’ve ever seen [the judges],” the 41-year-old former athlete said at the ARCADE Boutique event to benefit CII Sept. 29, referring to Bruno’s remark that Michael’s jive this week was the “worst [I’ve] ever seen.”
He quickly added, “So I don’t know what Bruno saw based on the judging, but he’s very passionate about critiques. He was just very clear and strong.”
Although Michael, 57, was deeply offended by Bruno’s critique and called it “inappropriate and disrespectful,” Rick hopes the two men reconcile.
“I hope there’s communication between the two of them because I know Michael had a wonderful time until that point,” he said. “But Bruno’s doing his job.”
Personally, Rick hopes his own rave reviews continue, and credits his success to good, old-fashioned hard work.
“[It takes] a lot of preparation and support at home and at the gym from my partner [Eliza Dushku],” he said, adding, “And gracious judging right now!”
Maryanne LaMonaca
Posted at 3:00 PM on September 30, 2010
The “stars” that agree to come onto the show are not looking for “dance contracts” as those on shows like “American Idol”. To be so rude and unnecessarily insulting was outlandist, and Bruno needs to be aware of this. It’s one thing to be critical, and another to be ignorant.
Apology is needed.