What a wonderful season 3 was dancing with Monique. It was great to have a Disney star as my partner. She was so humble and kind. Even though Monique was in her early 20ies, she was so mature, way beyond her years. I remember very well that we had many deep and heartfelt life conversations outside the 3rd Street dance studio off-camera.
A huge treat during the first weeks of rehearsals was our trip to London, England. We were the first couple ever in season 3 to travel outside the country. It was amazing to accompany Monique to the World Premiere of High School Musical in Europe. Rehearsing at the famous Pineapple Studios in downtown London was an experience of a lifetime.
I realized early on that Monique could move very well, which was such a pleasure as I could push her to the next level. After week 1 it became clear how in control of her emotions Monique was. However, during rehearsals in week 3, Monique struggled with her emotions. After a long walk off-camera, it became clear that there were trust issues triggered by her past. To help her I suggested a huge challenge and Monique, the trooper that she was, accepted the challenge. In the beginning of our ‘The Heat is On’ Jive opening I made her runoff the top podium, skip all the steps, jump forward, and turn her back to me mid-air landing in my arms. I was so proud of Monique for giving in to such crazy scary action. Because of it, we became closer…
The rest of the season was such an amazing experience. Monique was the last female celebrity standing making it to the top 4 with Mario Lopez, Joey Lawrence, and Emmett Smith in the top 3. Emmett won the season!