Xavier Prather has charmed America with his wit, intelligence and undeniable dancing prowess on season 32 of Dancing with the Stars. He currently sits amongst the strongest contenders for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy, making him a clear frontrunner fans are buzzing about…and some are bracing themselves against. For all his popularity and undeniable talent, Xavier isn’t enjoying unanimous applause; even prominent voices argue against his win. There appears to be a noticeable anti-frontrunner sentiment, but why is that the case?
The primary reason many find themselves rooting against Xavier isn’t based on a lack of skill or charm. His talent is readily apparent and infectious. Rather, it seems some viewers harbor an unexpected aversion to “favorites.” Predictability can breed dissatisfaction in reality-driven competitions like Dancing with the Stars, where viewers love seeing underdogs defy expectations and claim surprising victories. Watching Xavier secure the title feels somewhat preordained to some, robbing the competition of suspense and defying a core craving for unpredictability that drives reality TV narratives.
There’s also an intriguing social dimension at play. Recognizing themselves as outliers doesn’t negate many viewers’ appreciation of a charismatic person like Xavier but it could be leading to subtle resistance.
This phenomenon isn’t particularly new – it echoes the dynamics observed in popular music charts and even book sales, where underdog stories often gain significant traction over favored picks.
The human need to defy predictable outcomes and revel in unexpected triumphs seems powerfully embedded in our psyche. Could this “anti-favouriteness” sentiment be indicative of how audiences instinctively strive to ensure a level playing field in their vicarious explorations for success and failure? It certainly raises fascinating questions beyond the glitter of the dance floor. Xavier might charm viewers week after week, he might wow judges with perfectly executed routines, but there’s a potent undercurrent reminding viewers that sometimes we delight in rooting against favorites precisely to embrace uncertainty- and create a narrative surprise.