The sequins are stitched, the music is cued, and the ballroom is ready for Season 34 is a milestone season, as it marks the 20th anniversary, celebrated this fall. The show, which has continued to air on the ABC Network as well as streaming services including Disney+ and Hulu. Throughout this season, fans will get to see all the surprises and entertaining moments that the show has been known for since it first started.
This year’s cast has celebrities from a wide range of different backgrounds, all the way from Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles to TV personalities Elaine Hedrix from The Parent Trap, Danielle Fischell from Boy Meets World, and Corey Feldman with ‘80s Pedigree. Coming from the social media and influencer world, there is Alix Earle, best known for her high social media presence. Then, from the show “Secret Life Of Mormon Wives,” there are Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt. There is also Robert Irwin, whose sister Bindi Irwin was previously on the show, an NBA veteran, Baron Davis, and Lauren Jauregui singer who was previously in the band Fifth Harmony. There is also a member of Pentatonix, Scott Hoying, comedian Andy Richter, and Hilaria Baldwin, who is Alec Baldwin’s wife. This year also features a new pro who was previously a backup dancer for Taylor Swift on her The Eras Tour, Jan Ravnik.
The familiar faces of the judges are back, including Bruno Tonioli, Derek Hough, and Carrie Ann Inaba, who have long been considered the guardians of technique, narrative, and spectacle.
Season 34 is also significant behind the curtain. With 20 years of production, the showrunner and producers reflect on how the competitive celebrity landscape has evolved to —social media, streaming, speed of audience feedback—but insist the emotional heart of the show remains the same as always: vulnerability, transformation, and connecting with viewers.
Viewers can continue to expect the unexpected: new pairings, unconventional song choices, extra twists to keep both contestants and fans guessing. In what promises to be one of the more emotionally intense seasons, several celebrities have spoken about the intense strain already—both physical and mental, as they tackle new and challenging routines under pressure. Injuries and challenges are especially meaningful this year. For instance, Boy Meets World actress Danielle Fishel revealed she had a hamstring tear yet remains committed to performing.
producers and cast members both have acknowledged that Season 34 is more than just another campaign for the Mirrorball trophy—it is also a moment to reflect and evolve. From its humble beginnings before it gained widespread social media fame to now, engaging with fans online constantly, the show has changed its skin but not its heart. Judges note that talent, storytelling, and individuality still resonate strongly with viewers today.
Along with the glittering solos and sophisticated waltzes, viewers should expect intense competition. With athletes like Jordan Chiles among the celebrities, there is rising anticipation about who might push the technical envelope to the next level. And with social media stars also in the mix, moments off the dance floor—rehearsals, behind-the-scenes, fan interactions—will carry as much weight in the overall season buzz as the dances themselves.
As Season 34 begins, Dancing With the Stars continues to demonstrate the intense power that has kept it on air for two decades. With a cast that spans from athletes, actors, musicians, comedians, and social media personalities, the series offers viewers both variety and unpredictability. While production has evolved with new platforms and faster fan engagement, its core remains still unchanged: the competition, the performances, and the journey toward the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.
