By Bret Federigan
MSN TV

Cloris Leachman's long, strange trip back toward cultural relevance finally ended last night on "Dancing With the Stars." After allowing the 82-year-old veteran actress to stage one of the most controversial stories of survival in the annals of reality television, viewers finally decided they had had enough of the comedian's antics both on and off the dance floor. To be sure, Battlestar Geriatrica demonstrated some derring-do in making it this far, overcoming the odds and a physically limited body to win over a silent majority of fans of the show. But, her routines lacked difficulty and substantive choreography. And when the charm and novelty wore off, there was no mistaking that the granny was in way over her head. So, folks, gird yourself for a far more serious competition from here on out. The class clown has finally been sent home. But for now, a rundown of the remaining contestants, in the order that they were announced last night:

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Lance Bass 

What a wild ride for the pop singer! An awkward fall on his tuchas, a poorly conceived routine by partner Lacey Schwimmer and the ensuing harsh scores from the judging panel put the Bassmaster in some jeopardy last week. Other contestants might have allowed themselves to become discouraged, but this competitor roared right back and turned in the top performance this week, even besting Brooke Burke. Lance's jive routine was vintage stuff, demonstrating happy feet, snazzy moves and playfulness around the dance floor. Let's hope he can build on the momentum he's gained from getting himself back among the leaders.

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Cody Linley 

Despite the curveball thrown his way by partner Julianne Hough's medical condition, expect this teenager to make a run to the finals. He's just way too talented and has got way too much charisma not to be a factor as this competition rolls along. While we'll (temporarily) miss the youthful exuberance that he and Hough brought to the dance floor, we're not complaining now that replacement partner Edyta Sliwinska is back in front of the camera. These two will make one smart-looking pair.

Warren Sapp

Each week there seems to be a groundswell of support for this lovable loudmouth. What's not to love, after all? The big guy just keeps on truckin', never failing to serve up routines that are chock full of big man charm. Oh, and it sure doesn't hurt that he's got some of the most surprisingly quick feet in the competition. You've got to believe he's a lock for the finals. Will he be the one to knock Brooke Burke off the catbird seat?

Brooke Burke

This celebrity mom sometimes appears too perfect for her own good. Looks? Drop dead gorgeous. Legs? Best in the competition. Dance ability? She's easily the most talented among this season's celebrity cast. Frankly, it's going to take a serious push from Warren, Cody and Lance to make sure that the model-turned-actress doesn't run away with the mirror ball trophy. But, you know what? There's plenty of season left, and just about anything can happen.

Maurice Greene 

The Olympic sprinter has received his fair share of criticism this season for lacking the refinement and polish of many of his fellow competitors. The double gold medalist has been charming, but has struggled with the more technical dance steps. Here's a hint for partner Cheryl Burke: stay away from slower-tempo dances like the plague! These more orthodox dance steps, such as the waltz, don't highlight what he does best, which is shake it like no other.

Susan Lucci 

The daytime diva has been a lot of sound and fury lately, signifying nothing. She's been talking a good game about stepping up her energy and showing a little more fire on the dance floor, but the results just haven't been very good. Her routines have been tepid at best, and she's inspired yawns more than applause. But trust me when I say that I'm rooting for the veteran actress to begin to get her act together. She's way too shapely and far too likable a TV personality to be struggling as she has. C'mon, Erica Kane!

The Scorecard

Who's next to go: Susan Lucci

Who should be worried: Maurice Greene 

Who will make the finals: Brooke Burke, Warren Sapp and Cody Linley

Who still must prove himself: Lance Bass

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