“DWS” season six casts 12 celebrities and athletes known to be, er, highly competitive

By Stacey Silberman

HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today) 2/18/08 – The newest contestants to brave “The Dancing With the Stars” judges were announced Monday night following the finale of “Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann,” after the judges themselves were judged by audience voting, as to which one led the better team of singers and dancers.

The women’s cast is set to include: Most notable is Elvis’ ex Priscilla Presley, deaf “L Word” actress Marlee Matlin, famed Olympic Ice Champion Kristi Yamaguchi, Tony Winning “Hairspray” actress Marissa Jaret Winokur, tennis ace Monica Seles and actress Shannon Elizabeth (“American Pie”).

This should prove to be a very competitive group of female dancers with Yamaguchi having a slight edge due to her past training on the ice. Despite Matlin’s natural disadvantage as a non- hearing person, she is likely to surprise viewers as she steps up, and moves to the music as though she’s heard every note.

On the usually winning men’s side they have: Miami Dolphin football player Jason Taylor, R&B singer Mario, Televnovela super star Christian de la Fuente, comic and magician Penn Jillette, Los Angeles shock jock Adam Carolla and actor Steve Guttenberg (“Three Men and a Baby”).

The men’s side is certainly an interesting set of characters for the show, but in line with its typical demographic make-up across the board.

On that note be forewarned, that dancer extraordinaire Maxsim Chmerkofsky has bowed out this season, but may someday return to claim victory for one of his famed celeb dancers. He came in second with both Laila Ali and Mel B.

It was like the “Dancing” alumni show last night on “Bruno vs. Carrie Ann,” with Drew Lachey hosting and the return of “Dance Center,” which was made popular by season two dancer Kenny Mayne, who made an appearance alongside popular contestants Lisa Rinna and Jerry Rice, who made the actual cast announcements.

ABC’s “DWS” season six premiere will be telecast live on March 17 with a special two-hour episode from 8 to 10 p.m. ET, which should entice the show’s loyal “Dancing” fans.