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Top 10 TV Dance Moments

March 31, 2008

Bravo’s highly anticipated new competition reality series Step It Up and Dance premiers Thursday, April 3 at 11PM. To pump you up for the high kicks and back flips in store, here’s a look at the ten greatest dance moments in television history.

10. Elvis performs on The Ed Sullivan Show

Let’s begin the countdown with the undisputed King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Presley’s hip-swinging, leg kicking dance moves to his version of Little Richard’s ‘Ready Teddy’ was too hot for TV -- the cameras only shot him from the waist up. Elvis, you hound dog!

9. Carlton Banks dances to Tom Jones, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

It is a little bit unusual, Tom. Carlton was American’s favorite nerd of the early 90’s. The simplistic arm swinging with an elated smile on his face, it’s a surprise this dance craze didn’t proceed the Macarena.

8. Spartan Cheerleaders, Saturday Night Live

Arianna and Craig took their cheering dance moves to a new level. Always in search of ‘the perfect cheer’, the squad rejects would instead use their skills resulting in embarrassment from fellow classmates. Will Ferrell’s awkward movements combined with Cheri Oteri’s quick wit provided for some of the greatest uncomfortable dance moments on television -- so check them out!

7. The Ellen Degeneres Show

Do the Ellen, Do the Ellen! Who says you can’t just dance for fun? This fan-favorite talk show ends every monologue with a dance through the audience to pep them up for the rest of the show. You know your heads bobbing when you’re watching from home.

6. Janet Jackson's Wardrobe Malfunction at Superbowl 38

"Gonna have you naked by the end of this song". Let’s not take these lyrics literally, Justin. The infamous Janet Jackson wardrobe malfunction during the Superbowl was the climax of a sexually induced halftime show featuring performers including Diddy, Nelly and Kid Rock.

5. So You Think You Can Dance, Emmy Award Winning Mia Michaels Routine

Mia Michaels is a world-renown choreographer working with the likes of Madonna and Prince. Oh, and that little Celine Dion show in Vegas? Yeah, she choreographed that too. Her talent shines on the hit dance show So You Think You Can Dance and the grace and elegance found in her contemporary routines is a gift to the American public. She was nominated for an Emmy in 2006 for Best Choreography on television for her routine "Calling You".

4. Elaine Benes, "The Little Kicks" on Seinfeld

So You Think You Dance, Elaine? Her moves aren’t as sexual as Elvis’ or emotionally charged as Mia Michael’s, but you can’t get mad at her for lack of effort. In the infamous "Little Kicks Episode", George described her dancing as a “full bodied dry heave set to music”. Ouch.

3. MTV Video Music Awards Performances Madonna Like A Virgin/Britney Spears' Oops!...I Did It Again

These two pop superstars exude sexuality in everything they do. Give them a stage to dance on and millions of viewers and you have a tie for the third most memorable dance moment. Get past Madonna rolling around on the stage, and Britney stripping to the cover of Satisfaction and one thing is clear -- these ladies can dance. The style, power and intricacy of their moves make each Video Music Award performance one for the history books.

2. Gap Dance-Themed Ads

Whoever created the campaign for the dance-themed ads is a genius. Using Broadway, Swing, and Holiday themes and throw a Audrey Hepburn cameo you can’t help but tap your toes for each 30 second ad. Showcasing the clothes through dance provided some of the greatest 30 seconds of advertising ever broadcasted.

1. Michael Jackson's Thriller

One word: Thriller. Need I say more? Michael Jackson’s music video revolutionized the way the industry look, thought, and cared about music videos. The distinctive and unique choreography featured throughout the video introduced a new style dance to the popular culture...and made young teen girls afraid to go out during a full moon.

The list is filled with classic moments, shocking reveals and intense creativity. I know you’re about to head to YouTube to check out these and other memorable dance moments. After you’ve gotten your fill, head over to BravoTv.com and check out the cast and preview for Step It Up and Dance!