The passing of the King of Pop is the only entertainment headline that matters right now, but the So You Think You Can Dance show went on, just the same, and here are tonight's highlights:
Uno, Dos, Tres, Cuatro: Kudos to season two's Dmitry Chaplin and the ever-awesome Tabitha and Napoleon for choreographing one of the best group dances in years. The show-opening "Calle Ocho" performance was marvelous use of the Top 16's hip-hop and ballroom strengths. Rich with nods to Broadway and film (Singin' in the Rain's club scene, maybe Cabaret and, of course, Flashdance's strip sequence), the number showed off how unusually talented these dancers are, something you can't always see clearly when they are forced to learn quickstep or krump overnight.
Mama Cat: According to E.W.'s Must List issue, Cat Deeley is styling herself this season, and she appears to be doing a wonderful job. Her looks this summer have been consistently sexy and refined, without the "I'm a TV Hostess" rhinestoney ostentation of seasons past.
What else happened tonight on So You Think You Can Dance? Oh yes, the judges eliminated two more dancers. Read on to find out who went home...
We said farewell to Asuka Kondoh and Jonathan Platero. Jonathan's departure in particular seemed to break the hearts of the young women in the audience. Why did they go and not one of their fellow bottom-sixers Caitlin, Jason, Vitolio or Karla? Judge Nigel Lythgoe told Asuka, "We feel as though you are not growing with the competition," and he said to Jonathan, "I don't believe you've brought the dancing that is required to be America's best dancer."
And speaking of farewells, if you're interested in a reminder of the huge influence Michael Jackson had on American dance, check out this tribute clip from SYTYCD choreographer Wade Robson's old show.
Did you think the elimination was fair? Do you think Karla and Vitolio will be a good pairing when they work together for the first time next week? Share your thoughts in the comments!