Anna Delvey, the infamous subject of Netflix’s Inventing Anna, is making her mark on the dance floor, despite being under house arrest. During her debut on Dancing with the Stars, the 33-year-old spoke with PEOPLE about how she is embracing her circumstances with style.
“I’ve been relieved it’s over,” Delvey remarked after her performance alongside partner Ezra Sosa. “I was a bit nervous and feel I could have done better, but it was a great experience to perform live for the first time.”
Sosa, making his debut as an official pro dancer, aimed to highlight Delvey’s ankle monitor in their routine. “Let’s be real here. It’s the real star of the show,” he stated, emphasizing its presence during their performance.
Delvey, whose legal name is Anna Sorokin, gained notoriety for scamming wealthy socialites while posing as a German heiress in New York City before her arrest in October 2017. Now, she views her ankle monitor as part of her costume. “It’s part of the costume,” she explained, noting that the monitor was decorated specifically for her appearance.
“The costume department created a detachable sleeve for the monitor,” Delvey shared, explaining that it was secured with double-sided tape and removed immediately after the performance. While ankle monitors can’t be tampered with, Delvey has previously customized hers, stating, “There are no explicit or written rules for decorating it, as long as it’s not getting damaged.”
For her dance debut, Delvey dazzled in a vibrant two-piece skirt set, complete with a long-sleeved crop top adorned with tassels. Her miniskirt and heels added to her striking appearance.
Sosa expressed enthusiasm about Delvey’s journey on the show. Following support from judge Carrie Ann Inaba, who urged viewers not to judge Delvey harshly, Delvey remarked, “People should give me a second chance. I served my time and paid my restitution.”
Sosa concurred, highlighting the essence of Dancing with the Stars: “It’s just about the dance, and no matter where you come from, you go out on the floor, you dance, and you get your score.”