Hoying says he’s “gagged” after Jauregui’s surprise TikTok Night exit, praising her honesty, empathy and star quality.
Scott Hoying reacted with disbelief and admiration after Dancing with the Stars delivered one of season 34’s most surprising eliminations on Tuesday, Sept. 30.
Singer and former Fifth Harmony member Lauren Jauregui — partnered with Brandon Armstrong — was sent home following the show’s TikTok Night, leaving castmates and judges visibly stunned.
Jauregui, who told co-host Julianne Hough she was feeling simply “pissed” when her name was announced, bowed out after a cha-cha to Fifth Harmony’s “Work From Home.” The routine earned an 18/30 from the judges, and despite praise for her movement and presence, critiques focused on a need for sharper accents and more aggressive energy in Latin dances.
“I am obsessed with her one-word response,” Hoying told PEOPLE after the episode. “She is so honest, she’s so true to herself. She is confident, she’ll tell it like it is. But she is the first person in the room that will make sure everyone’s heard, everyone’s seen.
She’s an empath.” He called Jauregui “a perfect soul” and admitted he was “gagged” by the result, adding he believed she had a legitimate shot at the trophy.
Hoying’s partner, Rylee Arnold, echoed the sentiment, describing Jauregui as a “kind soul” and a supportive presence in rehearsals. “She’s been such a good friend to us at rehearsals and then somebody that you can just talk to and just be vulnerable with,” Arnold said, noting that the competition will miss both her talent and her warmth.
“When Lauren’s name was announced, my jaw genuinely was dropped for a long time. I couldn’t believe it.”
Judges offered a mix of praise and pointed notes during the critique. Derek Hough said he looks forward to Jauregui’s performances each week but urged more “fire” for Latin numbers. Bruno Tonioli complimented her lyrical quality while encouraging her to “show the beat through your body.”
Carrie Ann Inaba praised Jauregui’s movement but wanted “more pop in your step” and greater dynamic contrast — asking her not to be afraid to “hit it and quit it.”
The elimination marks an unexpected turn in a season that’s already delivered dramatic moments and tight competition.
Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and is simulcast on Disney+, with episodes available to stream the next day on Hulu.
