Joe Amabile reflects on his near-miss Tango Mishap on Dancing with the Stars

Joe Amabile, affectionately known as “Grocery Store Joe,” may have impressed fans during his run on Dancing with the Stars Season 27, but it’s not his semifinals finish that sticks out most in his memory. During the December 17 episode of the Bachelor Happy Hour podcast, Amabile, 38, revisited a particularly terrifying—and unforgettable—moment with his former dance partner, Jenna Johnson.


Amabile and his wife, Serena Pitt, were joined by reigning DWTS champions Jenna Johnson and Joey Graziadei for the episode. While discussing Johnson’s recent win, Amabile couldn’t help but bring up a life-threatening mishap they shared during their season. “Jenna, remember when I almost snapped your neck?” Amabile asked, referring to a botched move during the Halloween episode.


Johnson vividly recalled the incident, labeling it a moment she’d “never forget.” The pair were performing a tango when the routine’s dramatic conclusion didn’t go as planned. “I swear on my life, she almost died,” Amabile admitted. “It was insane.” The move, which involved Amabile catching Johnson in a dip, went awry when he lost his grip, nearly causing a serious injury.


Despite the scare, Johnson, a seasoned professional dancer, took the incident in stride. Known for her poise and ability to adapt under pressure, she managed to avoid serious harm and finish the performance. “It was one of those moments that reminds you how much trust you have to have in your partner,” Johnson shared during the podcast.



Amabile, who entered the competition with no formal dance training, expressed his gratitude for Johnson’s patience throughout the season. “She’s an incredible teacher and partner,” he said. “I didn’t know what I was doing half the time, and she still made me look good—except for almost killing her.”


The incident, though nerve-wracking at the time, has become a humorous anecdote for both Amabile and Johnson. Their bond as dance partners remains strong, with Johnson praising Amabile’s growth and dedication during their season. “I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything,” Amabile said. “Even if it means I almost gave Jenna a Halloween scare she’ll never forget.”


Amabile’s journey on Dancing with the Stars may not have ended with a trophy, but it left him with unforgettable memories, a stronger appreciation for dance, and a lasting friendship with Johnson. For fans, the story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and often heart-pounding nature of live television, where even a misstep can turn into a cherished—and humorous—memory.