The second season of “Mira quién baila” began on September 14, broadcast live from the Marco Picado studio by Teletica. The show opened with all the celebrity contestants and their dance partners performing an energetic group number.
Spanish judge Toni Costa, now also serving as floor manager, addressed the participants before going live, asking them for more energy to ensure they stood out for the audience. Michael Rubí was heard expressing his nerves just before the broadcast started.
Miss Costa Rica Ivonne Cerdas was the first to perform, dancing to “Dear Future Husband.” She participated despite a recent ankle injury and received feedback from judges about her timidity but was praised for her charisma. Judge Isaac Rovira commented: “Por fin veo a una Miss que no parece una muñeca de porcelana.”
Neto Rangel performed bachata and was complimented on his fluidity, though Costa noted issues with his footwork. Katherine Campbell, sister of footballer Joel Campbell, danced foxtrot and impressed the judges. Salvadoran judge Isabel Guzmán said she had elegance and potential to stand out this season.
Presenter Thais Alfaro danced to “Vivir mi vida” by Marc Anthony. Judges encouraged her to improve her footwork but highlighted her positive attitude as a strength.
Ericka Morera, supported in the audience by her daughter Zoé, performed a bolero criollo that earned strong praise from both judges and audience members. Mauricio Astorga remarked that her performance was of a “nivel superior.” Toni Costa stood up during his comments and stated that Morera’s dance captured an emotional Costa Rican essence.
Singer Jeff On also impressed with his routine. Mauricio Astorga told him: “Sos un showman,” while other judges predicted he would do well in the competition.
Comedian Daniel Montoya followed with a swing criollo performance that focused more on entertainment than technical skill due to his knee injury. Despite criticism from Toni Costa—“Te equivocaste muchísimo”—Montoya’s humor made him popular with both judges and viewers.
Mariana Uriarte gave a fast-paced performance that drew praise for its energy but led Costa to criticize her partner Michael Rubí for trying to fit too many steps into one segment.
One of the most emotional moments came when Ítalo Marenco debuted with a tango performance. Judge Mauricio Astorga’s remarks brought Marenco to tears as he recalled Marenco’s parents and their shared history in theater. Marenco thanked everyone for the opportunity and encouraged openness to change before lightening the mood by lifting presenter Édgar Silva on stage, prompting laughter from those present.
Randall “Chiqui” Brenes closed out the night with a routine that defied expectations based on previous footballers’ performances in dance competitions. Judge Isaac Rovira described him as possibly “el futbolista que mejor baila” he has seen.
Although there were no nominations during this first gala—the process will begin in future episodes—a $1,000 prize for best couple went unexpectedly to singer Jeff On and his partner, marking him as an early standout in this new season.
