Mario is Dancing with the Stars

Last night kicked off the 2008 season for ABC's hit dance contest, "Dancing with the Stars". Amongst the celebrity entertainer/dancers are Penn Jillette of "Penn & Teller" fame, actress Shannon Elizabeth (American Pie), Adam Carolla (radio host & comedian), NFL player Jason Taylor and R&B singer Mario. Last night's show was all about the male celebs showing their dancing prowess. Football star Jason Taylor was given high marks after showing great poise and footwork. Both Penn and Adam Carolla were encouraged to work on their stuff just a bit more but Penn still received compliments for his showmanship. Carolla is paired with last year's female dancer, and two time Dancing with the Stars champion. It was R&B singer Mario who took the top score, and that's not a huge surprise. According to Dallas News: "R&B singer Mario left judge Carrie Ann Inaba gasping for air after his cha-cha and was awarded the top score of 24 out of 30 for his efforts." (SOURCE) The Detroit Free Press gives the following analysis of Mario: The 21-year-old R & B star walked away with the top score last night. He’s going to be a strong contender, plus, his professional partner, Karina Smirnoff, almost won a few seasons back with another sizzling Mario (Lopez). But will he connect with the older women who make up a big chunk of the “Dancing” audience, and who may prefer the more mature contestants? As youngster Sabrina Bryan proved last season, skill alone may not take a star to the finals. Source: Detroit Free Press Clearly being a soulful performer with hip hop videos and concert appearances gives the talented Mario an advantage. The season is still young just like its top male celebrity dance contestant. Females dance on tonight's episode of the show including Shannon Elizabeth, Priscilla Presley and Monica Seles. There will be no eliminations for the show this week. Every contestant will dance again next week before the eliminations start.