Dancing with the Stars remains one of television’s most recognizable celebrity dance competitions. The show brings together famous actors, musicians, athletes, television personalities, and professional ballroom dancers to compete for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Each week, celebrity contestants learn new dance routines, perform in front of a live audience, and receive scores from a panel of expert judges.
In 2026, Dancing with the Stars returned for its 35th season with an exciting celebrity lineup, familiar hosts, experienced judges, and fresh professional dancer pairings. The new season premiered with a special two-night event on September 15 and 16. Since then, viewers have watched celebrities develop their dancing skills, perform different styles, and compete for a place in the finale.
The Dancing with the Stars 2026 season features a diverse group of personalities, including Jenna Dewan, Julia Stiles, Harry Shum Jr., Tatyana Ali, Giada De Laurentiis, and Olympic champion Amber Glenn. Their performances combine entertainment, choreography, music, and competition.
Whether you want to know about the Dancing with the Stars cast, professional dancers, judges, voting process, weekly eliminations, or latest results, this guide covers the important details about the show.
What Is Dancing with the Stars?
Dancing with the Stars is an American television dance competition in which celebrities are paired with professional ballroom dancers. Each couple performs choreographed routines based on different dance styles. A panel of judges evaluates their performances, while viewers support their favorite contestants through voting.
The competition combines professional dancing with celebrity entertainment. Some contestants have previous performance experience, while others enter the ballroom with little or no formal dance training. This creates an opportunity for viewers to watch celebrities learn new techniques, overcome challenges, and improve throughout the season.
The ultimate goal is to win the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Couples must consistently deliver strong performances and receive enough audience support to remain in the competition.
The show’s format also includes themed episodes, special musical performances, creative choreography, and unexpected eliminations. These elements help make every episode different.
Dancing with the Stars 2026: Season 35 Overview
Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars started with a special two-night premiere in September 2026. The opening event introduced 16 celebrities and their professional dance partners.
The new season continued the show’s familiar format while introducing new personalities and returning professional dancers. Contestants performed different ballroom and Latin dance styles as the competition progressed.
Here are the important details about the 2026 season:
| Category | Details |
| Show name | Dancing with the Stars |
| Season | Season 35 |
| Premiere date | September 15, 2026 |
| Second premiere night | September 16, 2026 |
| Hosts | Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough |
| Judges | Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli |
| Celebrity contestants | 16 |
| Main prize | Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy |
| Original network | ABC |
| Streaming platforms | Disney+ and Hulu |
| Regular schedule | Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET |
The season’s opening episodes introduced the male and female celebrity contestants on separate nights. Each group performed its first routine before the elimination process began.
For the latest episode information, viewers can visit the official ABC Dancing with the Stars page.
Dancing with the Stars 2026 Cast and Professional Partners
One of the biggest attractions of every season is the celebrity cast. Fans enjoy seeing familiar personalities take on an unfamiliar challenge and work with experienced professional dancers.
The Dancing with the Stars 2026 cast includes celebrities from television, entertainment, sports, music, reality shows, and social media.
Here is the complete celebrity lineup and its announced professional pairings.
| Celebrity contestant | Professional dance partner |
| Tatyana Ali | Jan Ravnik |
| Tyler Cameron | Sharna Burgess |
| Giada De Laurentiis | Alan Bersten |
| Jenna Dewan | Val Chmerkovskiy |
| Ezra Frech | Daniella Karagach |
| Amber Glenn | Pasha Pashkov |
| Taylor Hanson | Britt Stewart |
| Maura Higgins | Mark Ballas |
| Conner Leavitt | Adele Zaikman |
| Ciara Miller | Brandon Armstrong |
| Sarah Jane Nader | Hailey Bills |
| Jackson Olson | Emma Slater |
| Guillermo Rodriguez | Witney Carson |
| Harry Shum Jr. | Jenna Johnson |
| Julia Stiles | Ezra Sosa |
| Connor Wood | Rylee Arnold |
The lineup offers a mixture of experienced entertainers and celebrities who are relatively new to competitive ballroom dancing.
Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik
Tatyana Ali is known for her acting career, particularly her role in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. She joined the competition with professional dancer Jan Ravnik.
Their partnership brings television nostalgia and ballroom choreography together. Viewers can follow how Ali develops her technique and confidence as the season progresses.
Tyler Cameron and Sharna Burgess
Tyler Cameron entered the ballroom with professional dancer Sharna Burgess. Cameron is known for his television appearances and entertainment career.
Burgess brings considerable ballroom experience to the partnership. Her role is to help Cameron improve his timing, posture, coordination, and performance skills.
Giada De Laurentiis and Alan Bersten
Celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis joined the competition with Alan Bersten. Although audiences primarily recognize her from the culinary world, the show gives her an opportunity to explore a completely different type of performance.
Her progress depends on learning choreography, developing rhythm, and becoming comfortable with ballroom techniques.
Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy
Jenna Dewan brings a background in dance and acting to Season 35. She is paired with professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy.
Their partnership has attracted attention because Dewan already has experience with movement and performance. However, competitive ballroom dancing requires specific techniques, musical interpretation, and precision.
Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach
Paralympic gold medalist Ezra Frech joined the show with professional dancer Daniella Karagach.
His participation adds an important athletic perspective to the competition. His journey demonstrates how determination, preparation, and creative choreography can contribute to a memorable performance.
Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov
Olympic figure-skating champion Amber Glenn is paired with Pasha Pashkov.
Figure skating and ballroom dancing share certain elements, including balance, musical timing, coordination, and body control. However, each discipline has its own technical requirements.
Glenn’s athletic background gives her an interesting starting point as she learns new dance styles.
Other Celebrity Contestants
The remaining contestants also bring different backgrounds and personalities to the ballroom.
Taylor Hanson represents the music industry, while Maura Higgins and Ciara Miller bring reality television experience. Harry Shum Jr. is known for his acting and performance background. Julia Stiles adds film and television experience to the cast.
The lineup also includes comedian Connor Wood, Savannah Bananas personality Jackson Olson, television personality Guillermo Rodriguez, and Sarah Jane Nader.
Each contestant has a different learning curve, making the season’s performances interesting to follow.
Who Are the Dancing with the Stars Judges in 2026?
The judges play an important role in determining how contestants perform throughout the competition. They evaluate technical skills, choreography, musical timing, creativity, and overall presentation.
Season 35 features three familiar judges.
Carrie Ann Inaba
Carrie Ann Inaba is one of the show’s longest-serving judges. She has been part of Dancing with the Stars since its first season.
Her background in dance and choreography helps her evaluate the technical and artistic elements of each routine. She often considers how well contestants perform their assigned dance styles and connect with the music.
Derek Hough
Derek Hough joined the judging panel after previously competing as a professional dancer. His experience in the ballroom gives him a detailed understanding of choreography, technique, and performance quality.
He can recognize the challenges contestants face when learning unfamiliar routines. His comments often focus on improvement, musicality, movement, and technical execution.
Bruno Tonioli
Bruno Tonioli is another original member of the judging panel. He is known for his energetic personality and detailed feedback.
His judging approach considers entertainment value, performance quality, and how effectively each couple presents its routine.
Together, the three judges provide different perspectives on the performances. Their scores contribute to the competition’s weekly results.
Who Hosts Dancing with the Stars 2026?
Best Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough return as co-hosts for Season 35.
Alfonso Ribeiro
Alfonso Ribeiro is widely recognized for his acting career and his previous success on Dancing with the Stars. He won Season 19 with professional dancer Witney Carson before returning to the show as a host in Season 31.
His experience as both a former contestant and presenter helps him connect with celebrities and audiences.
Julianne Hough
Julianne Hough is a former professional dancer and two-time Mirrorball Trophy winner. She has also worked as an actress, singer, and television personality.
Her professional dance background gives her a unique connection to the contestants. She understands the pressure of performing live and learning complicated routines within a limited period.
Together, Ribeiro and Hough guide viewers through performances, interviews, announcements, and elimination results.
Dancing with the Stars Schedule: When Does It Air?
Dancing with the Stars Season 35 premiered on September 15, 2026, with a second premiere episode on September 16.
Following the opening event, the regular schedule moved to Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+.
Episodes are also available on Hulu the following day.
The show features different themes throughout the season. These themed episodes give contestants opportunities to perform routines inspired by particular musical genres, entertainment franchises, and cultural moments.
Some of the Season 35 themes include:
- Viral Hits Night
- Yacht Rock Night
- Mariah Carey Night
- Super Bowl Night
- Dedication Night
- Horror Movie Night
- Disney Night
These special episodes encourage professional dancers and celebrities to develop creative routines that match the theme.
The schedule can occasionally change for special programming. Viewers should check the official ABC schedule for the latest broadcast information.
Dancing with the Stars Results and Eliminations 2026
Eliminations are among the most important parts of Dancing with the Stars. Each week, contestants perform their routines and receive scores from the judges. Viewer votes are combined with judges’ scores to help determine which couples remain in the competition.
Season 35 has already delivered several eliminations and memorable performances.
As of November 6, 2026, the following contestants have been eliminated:
| Competition stage | Eliminated celebrity | Professional partner |
| Premiere Night One | Conner Leavitt | Adele Zaikman |
| Premiere Night Two | Sarah Jane Nader | Hailey Bills |
| Horror Movie Night | Tyler Cameron | Sharna Burgess |
| Horror Movie Night | Jackson Olson | Emma Slater |
| Disney Night | Julia Stiles | Ezra Sosa |
No couple was eliminated during Dedication Night.
Who Is Still Competing?
Following the Disney Night elimination, seven couples remained in the competition:
- Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy
- Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik
- Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach
- Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov
- Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold
- Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson
- Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas
These couples continue competing for a place in the finale and the opportunity to win the Mirrorball Trophy.
The elimination list can change after every new episode, so viewers should check updated results rather than relying on older season information.
How Does Dancing with the Stars Voting Work?
Viewer participation is an important part of Dancing with the Stars. Judges evaluate the couples’ technical performances, but audience votes also influence the competition.
The voting system allows fans to support their favorite celebrities during eligible voting windows.
The main voting methods include:
Online voting: Eligible viewers can visit the official voting website during the announced voting period and select their favorite contestants.
Text voting: Viewers using participating U.S. wireless carriers may also be able to vote by text message, subject to the show’s rules.
Judges’ scores and audience votes are combined to determine the results. This means a contestant with a strong fan following may receive additional support even when their judges’ scores are not the highest.
Voting availability, limits, and eligibility requirements can vary. During the Season 35 premiere, ABC also provided separate voting windows for the two nights.
For the latest rules, visit the official DWTS voting website.
What Dance Styles Do Contestants Perform?
Dancing with the Stars introduces viewers to several ballroom and Latin dance styles. Each routine requires different movements, techniques, and musical interpretations.
Some dances focus on elegance and control, while others emphasize energy, rhythm, and expressive movement.
Common dance styles include:
Cha-Cha
The cha-cha is a lively Latin dance that features quick footwork and rhythmic hip movements. It requires coordination and accurate timing.
Salsa
Salsa combines energetic steps, turns, and expressive movements. It is often performed to upbeat music and requires strong rhythm.
Foxtrot
The foxtrot is a smooth ballroom dance characterized by flowing movements and controlled footwork. Couples must maintain posture and move naturally across the dance floor.
Tango
Tango focuses on sharp movements, dramatic expressions, and strong body control. Its distinctive style makes it one of the more visually recognizable ballroom dances.
Waltz
The waltz is known for graceful movements and a flowing rhythm. It requires balance, coordination, and a strong connection between partners.
Jive
Jive is an energetic dance that features fast footwork, kicks, and lively movements. It can be challenging for celebrities who are new to ballroom dancing.
Contestants may also perform styles such as contemporary, jazz, quickstep, paso doble, and samba as the season progresses.
Where Can You Watch Dancing with the Stars?
Viewers can watch Dancing with the Stars through its official broadcast and streaming platforms.
ABC: The network broadcasts the show according to its regular schedule.
Disney+: The series is available for streaming, including live episodes for eligible subscribers and supported locations.
Hulu: Episodes are generally available the day after their original broadcast.
Streaming availability may depend on the viewer’s country, subscription, and regional licensing arrangements.
For viewers outside the United States, including international audiences, the available streaming options may differ. Checking local streaming services and official platform listings is the best way to confirm availability.
Who Won Dancing with the Stars Season 34?
Robert Irwin and professional dancer Witney Carson won Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars in November 2025.
Their victory earned them the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy after competing against several other finalist couples.
The previous season also featured well-known personalities, including Alix Earle, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, and Elaine Hendrix.
Season 34’s result provides useful background for viewers following the 2026 competition. However, the Season 35 winner has not yet been determined as of November 6, 2026.
Why Is Dancing with the Stars So Popular?
Dancing with the Stars attracts viewers because it combines celebrity entertainment with a competitive performance format.
Several factors contribute to its popularity.
Celebrity participation: Fans enjoy watching familiar personalities try something new. The show introduces celebrities from different industries and backgrounds.
Professional choreography: Experienced dancers create routines that combine technical movements, music, and storytelling.
Personal improvement: Contestants often begin with different levels of dancing experience. Their progress gives viewers a reason to follow the season.
Audience voting: Fans can participate in the competition by supporting their favorite couples.
Themed episodes: Special nights create opportunities for new choreography, music, costumes, and creative performances.
Unexpected results: Strong judges’ scores do not always guarantee safety. Audience support can influence the final outcome.
These elements help the series appeal to both longtime ballroom dance fans and casual television viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dancing with the Stars
What season of Dancing with the Stars is airing in 2026?
Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars is airing in 2026. It premiered on September 15, with a second premiere episode on September 16.
Who are the Dancing with the Stars 2026 hosts?
Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough are the co-hosts of Season 35.
Who are the Dancing with the Stars judges in 2026?
The main judging panel includes Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli.
Who is in the Dancing with the Stars 2026 cast?
The celebrity lineup includes Jenna Dewan, Julia Stiles, Harry Shum Jr., Amber Glenn, Tatyana Ali, Giada De Laurentiis, Tyler Cameron, Maura Higgins, and other personalities.
Who was eliminated from Dancing with the Stars recently?
Julia Stiles and professional partner Ezra Sosa were eliminated following Disney Night on November 2, 2026.
Who is still competing on Dancing with the Stars?
As of November 6, seven couples remain: Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy, Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik, Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach, Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov, Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold, Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson, and Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas.
How can I vote for Dancing with the Stars?
Eligible viewers can vote through the official DWTS voting website during the designated voting window. Text voting may also be available through participating U.S. wireless carriers.
What does the winner of Dancing with the Stars receive?
The winning celebrity and professional dancer receive the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.
Where can I stream Dancing with the Stars?
The show is available through ABC and Disney+, with episodes generally streaming on Hulu the following day. Availability depends on location and subscription.
When does Dancing with the Stars air?
Season 35 follows a regular Tuesday schedule at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+, following its two-night premiere.
Final Thoughts
Dancing with the Stars continues to bring celebrity entertainment, professional choreography, and competitive ballroom dancing together. Season 35 has introduced an interesting cast, experienced judges, returning hosts, and several memorable themed performances.
From Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy to Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson, the remaining couples have different strengths and performance styles. Their progress, weekly scores, and audience support will play important roles in determining who reaches the finale.
I am William Harris, a passionate writer dedicated to creating informative, engaging, and valuable content for readers around the world. I enjoy researching different topics and sharing well-crafted articles that provide useful insights, practical tips, and meaningful information. I am committed to delivering high-quality content with accuracy, clarity, and a reader-focused approach. Through my writing, I aim to educate, inspire, and help people discover new ideas.
