ABC/KELSEY McNEALLife's a beach for Mario!
The Grammy-winning singer and Dancing with the Stars contestant found himself last week practicing in the sand—his partner, Karina Smirnoff, thought it would help him improve his fancy footwork. Well, they were doing something right. They scored a 26 out of 30 during last night's performance show.
I spoke to the R&B crooner earlier today, during a break from dress rehearsals for tonight's elimination round. This is the first of what I expect to be my many exclusive chats with the youngest celeb contestant—he's only 21—to ever go after the disco ball trophy. Read on to hear what he has to say about his sleeveless tux, backstage prayers and why Mario Lopez has nothing to worry about.
What did you think when Karina told you that you'd be practicing in the sand?
The reason she took me out there was if I can keep my balance in the sand then I definitely can do it out on the dance floor. I was like, "She's really pushing it." But then I said, "It's the beach, so maybe we can get a little splash in the water while we're out there." But it was 60 degrees, and the sun was going down!
Are you worried that Karina's boyfriend (Mario Lopez) may not be too thrilled with some of your hotter dance moves?
Um, hmmm...Not really. I mean, he seems like a really secure dude. He's cool.
Do you have any good-luck charms you carry during your performance or any backstage rituals?
I do have this good-luck charm, and it protects against evil. I prayed over it after I bought it. So instead of saying a really, really long prayer every time I go out there, now I just have to say a short prayer before I go out. But stretching and getting nervous is the real ritual.
Last night, you performed in a sleeveless tuxedo. Whose idea was it?
It was my idea! I thought it would be dope to do it without sleeves. When I told them, they looked at me sideways like, "Are you serious?" But I was willing to take the chance. I'm a young guy. I like to keep it young and fresh by trying something new.