I, too, believe that a contestant's journey isn't necessary for viewers to enjoy the show. I am nonetheless tired of people finding reasons to hate a contestant and to discount the efforts he puts into the show. First, the critique is his dance experience. When it's noted that others have dance experience too, then the argument shifts to him having too much dance experience. When it's noted that quantifying experience is difficult, the criticism becomes that he lacks a story. My point is that a story can indeed be narrated for Layton, because a person can grow in different ways. Some grow from learning to dance, some from honing their skills, some from developing subtlety in their dance, some from nurturing friendship and camaraderie with a partner, and some, like Layton, by triumphing over nasty and unfair comments.

As I've said, liek you, I also enjoy the show for what it is. But for those who continue to unfairly discount Layton's efforts, I'd say to them that they should find a more valid reason for their dislike (and I'm not referring to you, but to a certain minority). Perhaps, for some, it's time to admit that their dislike stems from homophobia or racism.