Giada De Laurentiis Dances, Jade's TikTok Tribute Breaks the Internet

Giada De Laurentiis, 56, stepped onto the *Dancing With the Stars* stage for Season 35 on Wednesday, September 16. The Italian‑American chef danced with partner Alan Bersten to “Venus” by Shocking Blue, and her performance aired during the network’s premiere episode.

A short clip of the dance was later shared by De Laurentiis on TikTok, where her 18‑year‑old daughter Jade reacted with unbridled enthusiasm.

In a TikTok video posted Thursday, September 17, Jade and a friend watched the live episode together. “She’s got it,” Jade said as she watched De Laurentiis and Bersten move to the music.

“Oh my God, she’s doing it!” The clip shows Jade cheering throughout the performance, even breaking into tears at one point when she repeated, “Oh my God, I’m so proud of her.”

Jade continued to gush after the judges’ critique, adding that “She kicked the tango’s butt.” She also noted that De Laurentiis had not expected herself to succeed so well. “Guys, she did not think she could do that,” Jade told the camera.

“I really hope that everyone sees how hard she worked.” The daughter’s heartfelt commentary captured the excitement of a mother‑daughter duo celebrating a new chapter in both of their lives.

## Background & Context

De Laurentiis’ debut came two days after her 20th‑year tenure as a parent, and she had previously shared that she would be “now an empty nester.” In an exclusive interview with *Us*, the chef explained that her daughter Jade was starting college at New York University, which meant the mother could not attend the live taping.

“I figured my daughter is going on this new adventure, so I’m going on a new adventure with Alan,” De Laurentiis told the magazine.

Following her dance, De Laurentiis spoke to *Us* about the emotions that surfaced during her post‑performance interview with judge Julianne Hough.

She said, “I think it’s the scores, but I think it’s also just, like, all the anxiety and the self‑doubt and all that stuff that kind of comes up, you know.” The chef compared her feelings to a volcano that “overtook me,” adding that she was trying desperately to hold it in.

She also revealed that her daughter had sent encouraging text messages before the performance: “You got this,” in all caps, and something she could not read fully.

## What People Are Saying

Jade’s reaction video not only displayed pride but also highlighted the supportive dynamic between mother and daughter. The TikTok clip became a viral moment, showing a teen cheering for a seasoned chef stepping out of her comfort zone.

De Laurentiis acknowledged the message, noting she had not spoken to Jade after the taping “yet,” but that her daughter’s text had already lifted her spirits.

During a conversation with *Us* two months prior to the premiere, De Laurentiis reflected on the mixed emotions of watching Jade transition into adulthood. “To be honest, I have really sad days, and then I have really happy days,” she said.

“I’ve spent most of my summer hanging out with her because I’m trying to hold on.” The chef framed this period as both a “sad” ending to twenty years of motherhood and an exciting new chapter for both her and Jade.

The public’s response has been largely supportive, with many viewers praising De Laurentiis for embracing a new challenge at 56. Fans of the *Dancing With the Stars* franchise have also celebrated Jade’s spirited support, recognizing the generational bond on display.

## What Happens Next

Season 35 of *Dancing With the Stars* continues to air Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and is available for streaming on Disney+. De Laurentiis remains a competitor through the season, dancing alongside Alan Bersten and being evaluated by the panel of judges each week.

While no official announcement has been made about her future in the show, she has expressed enthusiasm about learning new dance styles and competing for the trophy.

Jade’s upcoming college year at New York University will coincide with her mother’s ongoing journey on the dance floor. Fans can anticipate further updates as De Laurentiis progresses through the competition and as Jade adapts to student life.

The dynamic between the two continues to capture attention, symbolizing both a personal milestone for De Laurentiis and a new chapter for Jade.

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