The voting public on RTÉ One’s Dancing With the Stars are facing criticism for propelling The Traitors Ireland star Paudie Moloney to the final, despite concerns about his dancing ability. Columnist Pat Stacey has voiced strong opinions, suggesting that a victory for Moloney would undermine the integrity of the competition and the efforts of more skilled contestants. The debate highlights a recurring tension between popularity and technical proficiency in reality television competitions.
Stacey’s argument centers on the idea that viewers aren’t prioritizing dance skill when casting their votes. He likened the situation to a quote from the HBO series Succession, stating the voters “are not serious people.” This sentiment reflects a frustration that the show’s outcome may be determined by factors other than demonstrable talent, potentially diminishing the value of the hard perform put in by all participants.
Paudie Moloney’s Journey to the Final
Paudie Moloney, partnered with professional dancer Laura Nolan, has consistently progressed through the weeks of Dancing With the Stars. According to the Limerick Leader, he earned a place in the final with what was described as the series’ best score. This advancement has sparked debate, with some questioning how he has remained in the competition over contestants perceived to be stronger dancers.
Moloney’s popularity likely stems from his appearance on The Traitors Ireland, a reality show that garnered significant attention. His presence on Dancing With the Stars has also been noted by his family, with RTÉ reporting that his grandkids are “very invested” in his performance. This family support likely translates to votes.
Recent Performances and Public Reaction
Moloney and Nolan have performed a variety of dances throughout the season, including a Tango, an American Smooth, and a Samba. A recent performance of the American Smooth has garnered 7 views on YouTube as of March 12, 2026, according to a YouTube video. Their Tango, uploaded on February 15, 2026, has 1,000 views as of today, as shown in this YouTube video. A Samba performance featuring Robert Rowinski alongside Moloney and Nolan has 5 views as of March 12, 2026, as seen in this YouTube video.
The contrast between Moloney’s progression and the elimination of other contestants has fueled the controversy. Critics argue that the voting patterns prioritize entertainment value and personality over technical skill, potentially devaluing the dedication of the professional dancers and those contestants who have invested significant time and effort into honing their craft.
The Broader Implications for Reality TV Competitions
This situation raises broader questions about the nature of reality television competitions. Are these shows primarily about showcasing talent, or are they designed to generate drama and engage viewers through personality-driven narratives? The success of contestants like Paudie Moloney suggests that the latter may be increasingly true, potentially shifting the focus away from the core skill set the competition is ostensibly designed to celebrate.
The final episode of Dancing With the Stars 2025 will undoubtedly be closely watched, not only to notice who wins but also to observe whether the voting public continues to prioritize entertainment over technical expertise. The outcome will likely spark further discussion about the evolving dynamics of reality television and the values it promotes.
As the competition concludes, viewers will be left to consider the balance between popularity, personality, and genuine dancing ability. The results will offer a glimpse into the priorities of the audience and the future direction of the show. Share your thoughts on the season and the final results in the comments below.
