Dancing With the Stars is back and bigger than ever for its milestone 20th anniversary, and the buzz around Season 34 is already setting the internet ablaze. With a star-studded cast, rumored format shakeups, and behind-the-scenes drama, this season is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about in the show’s history.
A Star-Studded Cast With Viral Power
ABC officially confirmed that
Dancing With the Stars will return for Season 34, premiering
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. The network made the announcement during the inaugural “HULU’s Get Real” event, promising a season packed with surprises and high-profile contestants.
So far, the confirmed celebrity lineup is already turning heads:
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Robert Irwin, wildlife conservationist and brother of Season 21 winner Bindi Irwin, is stepping into the ballroom a decade after his sister’s victory.
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Alix Earle, TikTok sensation with millions of followers, is bringing her viral energy to the dance floor.
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Jen Affleck and
Whitney Leavitt, stars from
Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, are also set to compete, hinting at a possible reality TV rivalry.
Fans are eagerly awaiting more cast announcements, with speculation swirling about additional social media stars and athletes joining the competition.
Judges, Pros, and a Major Exit
The judging panel is expected to remain familiar, with
Carrie Ann Inaba,
Bruno Tonioli, and
Derek Hough likely returning. Derek Hough, a six-time Mirrorball champion turned judge, has become a fan favorite since joining the panel in Season 29.
However, not all the news is celebratory.
Gleb Savchenko, a longtime pro dancer and fan favorite, announced he will not return for Season 34. The decision comes amid public drama involving his ex-girlfriend Brooks Nader, who accused him of cheating in the trailer for her new reality show,
Love Thy Nader. Gleb addressed the rumors directly on TikTok, telling fans, “Afraid you won’t [see me this season]” and calling the circulating stories “
100% fake”. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the pro lineup and has sparked debate among fans.
Format Shakeups and a Mystery Twist
While the core format remains, producers are teasing a “never done before” surprise for the anniversary season. Hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough hinted at a major twist on Instagram, fueling speculation that
hip-hop could be introduced as a new dance style—a first for the series.
The show’s voting system, which allows fans to vote online and by text (up to 10 votes per couple per method), is expected to continue. The controversial “Judges’ Save,” where judges decide which couple goes home from the bottom two, also remains in place.
Why This Season Matters
With its 20th anniversary,
Dancing With the Stars is pulling out all the stops. The show’s enduring popularity—fueled by viral routines, celebrity drama, and a passionate fanbase—proves that ballroom dancing still has a place in the age of TikTok and streaming. The addition of social media stars like Alix Earle signals a savvy move to attract younger viewers, while the return of beloved judges and the promise of new dance styles keep longtime fans invested.
What to Watch For
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More cast reveals: Expect additional celebrities to be announced as the premiere approaches.
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A tribute to Len Goodman: The show is expected to honor the late head judge, a beloved figure in the DWTS community.
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Behind-the-scenes drama: With reality TV stars and viral personalities in the mix, off-camera fireworks are almost guaranteed.
Dancing With the Stars Season 34 is shaping up to be a must-watch event, blending nostalgia, innovation, and plenty of drama. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this season promises to deliver the unexpected.
Sources
1. Dancing with the Stars Season 34 (2025) - Parade
2. Pure Dancing with the Stars
3. DWTS Season 34 Premiere RECAP! Must-See Dances and an MIA ...
4. Is Gleb Savchenko on 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 34?
5. Dancing with the Stars - ABC
6. Meet the celebrity cast of 'Dancing with the Stars' season 33
