Get ready dance fans, because the Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) premiere for Season 34 is here—just in time to celebrate the show’s 20th anniversary! Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the ballroom, this season promises fresh talent, classic glitz, and potentially some exciting surprises. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect from the latest DWTS premiere and why everyone’s buzzing about it right now.
The DWTS premiere of Season 34 is set to air on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 8 PM Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+. Fans can also stream it live on Disney+ and catch next-day episodes on Hulu, making it super accessible whether you prefer traditional TV or streaming platforms. This season marks a huge milestone—20 years of dazzling dance-offs, fierce competition, and unforgettable TV moments.
Voting will be live during the premiere for viewers in Eastern and Central time zones, with options to vote online or via text, helping decide which couples stay or go right from the start. The premiere episode will be a full two-hour event packed with performances from 14 celebrities paired with pro dancers. It’s the perfect kickoff to what promises to be a high-energy season.
Dancing with the Stars Premiere: Who’s Dancing Their Way Into Our Hearts?
Season 34 comes stacked with an eclectic cast, ranging from Olympic athletes to social media stars and reality TV personalities. Some names generating chatter include:
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Robert Irwin, wildlife conservationist and brother of Bindi Irwin
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Alix Earle, social media influencer and model
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Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
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Olympic silver medalist Jordan Chiles
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Actor Corey Feldman and comedian Andy Richter
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Hilaria Baldwin, wife of Alec Baldwin
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On the professional dance front, fans will spot returning pros like Jenna Johnson (last season’s Mirrorball champ) and Mark Ballas, who is coming out of retirement. Plus, Jan Ravnik is making his pro debut after dancing backup for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour—expect some slick moves.
Returning to host this milestone season are Alfonso Ribeiro (remember his iconic Carlton dance?) and former pro turned co-host Julianne Hough. The judging panel will be familiar as well, with Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough providing their expert feedback. This mix of experience and fresh faces aims to balance tradition with excitement.
What’s New and What to Watch For at the DWTS Premiere?
To mark 20 years, DWTS has teased some surprises, though specific new rules or formats remain under wraps. Hosts Alfonso and Julianne have hinted at elements the show has “never done before,” leading fans to speculate about possible new dance styles like hip-hop joining the mix.
As always, the premiere will feature a mix of classic ballroom and Latin dances—think Salsa, Tango, and Waltz—with each celebrity aiming to impress both the judges and the audience. Week 1 sets the tone for the season, and knowing the pro partners, the competition is already heating up.
Whether you’re tuning in for the star-studded cast, the dazzling dance routines, or the drama that’ll inevitably unfold, the Dancing with the Stars premiere for Season 34 is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event. So mark your calendars for September 16 at 8 PM ET and get ready to cheer on your favorites as they chase the coveted Mirrorball Trophy!
Will you be watching the DWTS premiere? Which couple are you rooting for? Let us know!
