Dancing With the Stars professional dancer Tristan MacManus defended the casting of Valerie Harper on the new season of the dancing competition after critics slammed her of competing on the show.

Harper, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer in March, will be partnered with MacManus on the upcoming 17th season of Dancing With the Stars. Soon after the announcement on Sept. 4, there was criticism on the Internet over the casting choice.

Responding to the criticism noted in one particular article, which accused DWTS of using Harper's cancer for ratings, MacManus gave a passionate response.

"You are dead right by the way, it is pathetic," MacManus said, sarcastically mocking the article to FOX411 in a Tuesday report. "I can't believe Valerie was asked to participate in this season of DWTS - there is no place for her. She should do what most other cancer victims do, just give up and go home."

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MacManus said he asked Harper why she finally decided to join DWTS as a contestant. Her response was that she had been asked before but declined for various reasons.

"She didn't even want to do the show at first but she was convinced by her husband, a great man, who reminded her that people need this - not so much to see someone ill on DWTS but someone who has the profile to be relevant and show that you don't go to the funeral until you're dead," MacManus explained.

MacManus also said that it doesn't matter if they are voted out first or they are the ultimate winner - it only matters that Harper's message about not giving up is clear.

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Harper will join 11 other celebrities who will be participating in season 17 of Dancing With the Stars. The season is scheduled to begin on Monday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. on ABC.

Tags: Dancing with the Stars Dancing With the Stars Season 17 valerie harper