Dancing with the Stars Honors Michael Jackson, Boots Natalie Coughlin

According to La Toya Jackson on last night's Dancing with the Stars results show, her late brother was a fan of the ABC competition.

The series returned the favor this week with a routine in Michael Jackson's honor, as the show's professionals spoke glowingly of the departed icon and then performed a version of his iconic "Thriller" dance.

Was this a true tribute to the singer? Or a ratings ploy? Call us cynical for even suggesting the latter, but it made more sense when DWTS honored Patrick Swayze in late September. At least he had actually taken part on the show.

Watch the video below and let us know your reaction to it:

Meanwhile, Michael Irvin must have incriminating evidence on all of America. What else explains how this poor dancer is still around?!? He didn't even find himself in the bottom two last night!

Natalie Coughlin got the axe instead, and seemed apologetic afterward. She said:

"I loved this so much. I guess I didn't show it, how much I loved it, but I really did. I'm sorry."

No apologies necessary, Nat. The country should be telling you how sorry it is for continuing to support Irvin, a former football star that is clearly giving less effort on the dance floor than any other contestant.