Dancing With the Stars is back in the headlines with a flurry of exciting updates as the beloved ballroom competition gears up for its milestone 34th season. The latest real-time news confirms a wave of fresh faces joining the cast, major announcements from the production team, and a highly anticipated September premiere that has fans buzzing across social media.
Dancing With the Stars Season 34: The Latest Cast Announcements
The biggest headline today is the official reveal of two new celebrity contestants: Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt, both stars of the hit reality series Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. The announcement came during the show’s reunion special, hosted by Nick Viall, where the news was met with visible excitement. Jen, who is currently expecting her third child, and Whitney both expressed their enthusiasm about relocating to Los Angeles to compete for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Their participation marks a significant crossover between two popular reality franchises and is expected to bring fresh energy and a new fanbase to the ballroom.
This casting news follows the earlier confirmations of Robert Irwin, wildlife conservationist and television personality, and Alix Earle, a social media influencer and model. Robert Irwin, whose sister Bindi Irwin won the competition in 2015, is embracing the family tradition and has shared his excitement about learning from his sister’s experience. Alix Earle, meanwhile, has spoken publicly about her lifelong love of dance and her eagerness to take on the challenge, fulfilling a dream she’s held since childhood.
Key Points Summary
- Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt from Secret Lives of Mormon Wives join Season 34.
- Robert Irwin and Alix Earle were previously announced as contestants.
- Season 34 will premiere on ABC and Disney+ in Fall 2025, celebrating the show’s 20th anniversary.
- Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough return as hosts; Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli are expected back as judges.
A Season of Surprises: Dancing With the Stars Major Announcements
Anticipation for Dancing With the Stars Season 34 reached new heights after co-hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough teased a “major announcement” on social media. This led to widespread speculation among fans, with guesses ranging from new celebrity contestants to the possible return of fan-favorite professional dancers or even changes to the judging panel.
The official word is that Season 34 will premiere on Tuesday nights in September 2025, airing live on both ABC and Disney+ to mark the show’s 20th anniversary. The simultaneous broadcast continues the trend set in recent seasons, making the competition more accessible than ever. While the exact premiere date is yet to be confirmed, mid-September is widely expected, with possible dates including September 16 or 23.
What’s New for Dancing With the Stars Season 34?
This season promises not only a star-studded cast but also the return of the show’s signature glamour and high-stakes competition. Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough will reprise their roles as hosts, bringing a blend of charisma and dance expertise to the stage. The judging panel remains strong, with Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli set to provide their trademark critiques and encouragement.
For the contestants, the stakes are higher than ever. Last season, the show set new records for audience engagement, drawing over 32 million votes for the finale and achieving the highest ratings among adults aged 18-24 in four years. The momentum is expected to carry into Season 34, with producers aiming to top last year’s impressive numbers.
Confirmed Contestants So Far
| Celebrity | Notability | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Jen Affleck | Reality TV star, Secret Lives of Mormon Wives | Confirmed |
| Whitney Leavitt | Reality TV star, Secret Lives of Mormon Wives | Confirmed |
| Robert Irwin | Wildlife conservationist, TV personality | Confirmed |
| Alix Earle | Social media influencer, model | Confirmed |
The professional dance partners for these celebrities will be announced closer to the premiere, keeping fans guessing and fueling speculation online.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The announcement of Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt joining the cast has sparked a wave of excitement on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, with fans of both Dancing With the Stars and Secret Lives of Mormon Wives expressing their support. Robert Irwin’s participation is also generating buzz, especially among viewers who fondly remember his sister’s championship run.
Producers are leveraging this social media momentum, teasing further surprises and encouraging fans to share their predictions for the remaining cast slots. The show’s official accounts have been flooded with comments, theories, and calls for the return of favorite professional dancers and judges.
What to Expect This Season
As Dancing With the Stars prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, viewers can expect a season packed with nostalgia, fierce competition, and unforgettable performances. The blend of reality TV personalities, social media stars, and legacy contestants ensures a dynamic mix of dance styles and personalities. With the show’s proven track record of breaking voting records and drawing massive audiences, Season 34 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about yet.
Don’t miss your chance to catch all the action when Dancing With the Stars returns this September. Follow the show’s official channels for the latest updates, cast reveals, and behind-the-scenes content. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this season promises to deliver the drama, excitement, and show-stopping routines that have made Dancing With the Stars a television phenomenon for two decades.
Get ready to vote for your favorites, join the conversation online, and experience the magic of the ballroom all over again. Who will take home the Mirrorball Trophy in this landmark season? Tune in this fall to find out!