The worst season of Dancing with the Stars is down to five contestants.

Finally, following weeks of poor performances, Michael Irvin and Mark Dacascos were given the boot last night. The former was gracious upon learning of his fate, saying:

"Thank you. Last night was a great night, and to see the audience here standing up as a way of saying they appreciate the hard work, it means a great deal to a lot of people right now, with the economy going the way it has."

We're not sure how that plays a role, but have a safe trip home, Michael!

Dacascos chimed in with appreciation for professional dancers:

"[This is] certainly much harder than it looks on television. It's a lot easier to watch it than do it."

As this season drags to a conclusion, Kelly, Donny, Aaron, Mya and Joanna will each perform a pair of routines next week.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.