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Reality TV Interview

Adechike Torbert ('So You Think You Can Dance')

Adechike Torbert from SYTYCD S7

© Fox / Mathieu Young

Often the recipient of harsh criticism from the judges, Adechike Torbert held a special place in the hearts of viewers on So You Think You Can Dance. Unfortunately, that popularity was not enough to carry him into next week's finale, and the 23-year-old contemporary dancer left last night after receiving the lowest percentage of the public's votes. We caught up with Adechike to talk about his time on the show and where he'll go from here.

The judges were often rather hard on your performances. What did you make of their criticism?
"It was hard. It's hard to stand up there and take the negative criticism but it only made me stronger. For them to say those things to me only made me want to fight more. I'm really thankful that I had such a strong support system from the fans. I really owe it to them."

On a positive note, they did also say that you came into your own and loosened up. What changed for you?
"I stopped dancing for the judges and started dancing for myself. I wasn't looking for their approval anymore and I didn't need them to determine my success on the show."

What was the best advice you received on the show?
"To have fun! But it's hard to have fun because you work so hard and then you get up there and they tell you that you've done terrible. It's a hard moment to enjoy."

You've mentioned how difficult it was for you as a male dancer growing up in Brooklyn. Do you think you've helped others who are in a similar situation?
"I would hope so! I hope that I can be an inspiration because I really didn't have that growing up. I hope dancing is now cool and that guys see that. I hope that I can be a role model."

What advice would you give young dancers who are trying to make it?
"Just to stay focused and if you love something, just stick with it no matter what anyone says. Follow your heart and follow your dreams. You have to be the master of your destiny, so just create it!"

Everyone in the Top 11 has said that you all became great friends. Was there anyone you were particularly close with?
"Definitely Jose! Me and Jose were really cool from Vegas, we kinda just clicked automatically. I think we just have similar personalities and he's just a genuine guy and by the end of the show we became like brothers. He's a lifelong friend. I really cherish our friendship."

What was the hardest part of the experience for you?
"The hardest thing was just dealing with the negative criticism. You work really hard and you want to do well. Sometimes you feel like you've done great and you get up there to the panel and they tell you that you haven't. So just digesting the information that they give you [is tough]."

What are your plans for after the upcoming tour?
"Well, I'd like to do a lot of things. I'm in the process of getting an agent and I really want to do some stuff on Broadway. I'm thinking of moving out to LA 'cause I'd like to get into TV and movies."

Is there anyone in particular that you'd like to see win the competition?
"No, I mean, I love all three of them. I think they're all equally deserving of being America's Favorite Dancer so I just hope that they enjoy this last opportunity to showcase themselves and just live in this moment."

So You Think You Can Dance continues this Wednesday on Fox

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