The highly anticipated Dancing With the Stars is making a grand comeback for its 35th season promising a dazzling display of talent and entertainment. Following the immense success of Season 34 which saw record-breaking ratings and a triumphant victory by Robert Irwin the show is gearing up to deliver another unforgettable season.
The excitement began on September 2 when the celebrity and pro partners were unveiled on Good Morning America. This season features a mix of reality stars, athletes, and actors, including Jenna Dewan and Harry Shum Jr. both of whom bring extensive dance backgrounds to the competition. Dewan, known for her work as a backup dancer for Janet Jackson and as a judge on Come Dance with Me will be paired with Val Chmerkovskiy. Shum Jr., who has performed with BeyoncéAlicia Keys and other music icons, will dance with Jenna Johnson.
The Return of Beloved Pros and New Faces
The professional dancers are just as exciting as the celebrity contestants. Witney Carson the winner of Season 34 will make a special return, dancing while pregnant with her third child. She will be partnered with Guillermo Rodriguez. Another notable return is Sharna Burgess who will join the cast for the first time since 2011. Burgess, a 14-season veteran, will dance with Tyler Cameron.
New to the pros this year is Adele Zaikman the winner of DWTS: The Next Pro who will dance with Conner Leavitt. Additionally, Hailey Bills a troupe member from last year, will make her debut as a pro dancer, forming the second-ever same-sex partnership with Sarah Jane Nader.
Premiere Details and Hosts
Mark your calendars for the two-night premiere on Tuesday, September 15 and Wednesday, September 16 airing live on ABC and Disney+. The show will resume its regular schedule, airing on Tuesdays only, starting from Week 2.
The familiar faces of Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough will return as hosts, bringing their charisma and energy to the ballroom. The judging panel remains unchanged, with Derek HoughBruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba returning to critique the performances. The show has also invited celebrity guests to sit at the judges’ table, adding an extra layer of excitement.
A Bigger and Better Season Ahead
Executive producer Conrad Green has teased that this season will feature a bigger cast than last season with 14 contestants already confirmed. The full cast reveal took place on Good Morning America on September 2 building anticipation for the upcoming season.
With a mix of returning favorites and fresh faces, Dancing With the Stars Season 35 is set to be a spectacular showcase of talent, drama, and unforgettable performances. As executive producer Deena Katz noted, the pressure is on, but the excitement is even greater. Fans can look forward to a season filled with cha-cha chaos, tango twists, and plenty of emotional moments.
