Maura Higgins Navigates 'Shock and Disbelief' After Top Debut on Dancing With The Stars

Maura Higgins arrived at rehearsals in Los Angeles expressing "shock and disbelief" following her successful debut on "Dancing With The Stars." The "Love Island" personality secured the top spot on the leaderboard with her partner Mark Ballas after performing a Foxtrot themed around "The Traitors." Higgins, who was a runner-up on the US version of "The Traitors" last year, shared her gratitude on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and her partner for his guidance.

Her "Traitors" co-stars Rob Rausch and Lisa Rinna were present to support her performance. Rausch, who famously betrayed Higgins in the finale of "The Traitors," was seen holding a Birkin handbag, which he had previously vowed to purchase for her, along with a note encouraging votes. Rinna praised Higgins' performance, calling her "fabulous" and expressing pride.

Higgins admitted to being surprised by her success, noting that she had never danced before and had never taken a dance lesson. She credited her partner Mark Ballas for his patience and teaching skills.

Despite the on-screen drama and past betrayals, Higgins expressed a desire to deliver a strong performance on "Dancing With The Stars." She acknowledged the pressure but committed to giving her all. Prior to the show's premiere, she described the experience as a "serious battering" for her body, noting the challenges and blisters, but also stated she was "loving it."

Reports had surfaced suggesting Higgins's pairing with Ballas, the son of judge Shirley Ballas, had caused a "fix row" among other contestants. Some cast members allegedly felt Higgins was being favored, citing her closeness to judge Bruno Tonioli and her reported desire to be partnered with Ballas. Higgins has largely dismissed this speculation, focusing on her performances.