The new lineup includes Olympic athletes, reality stars, and fan favorites, set to compete for the Mirrorball Trophy
Category: Arts & Culture
ABC has officially unveiled the full cast and pro dancer pairings for the upcoming season of "Dancing with the Stars," which kicks off with a two-night premiere on September 15 and 16, 2026. This season marks the 35th installment of the popular dance competition, featuring a star-studded lineup of contestants from various backgrounds, including Olympic athletes, actors, and reality TV personalities.
The highly anticipated cast reveal occurred during the September 2 episode of "Good Morning America," where hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough introduced the celebrities and their professional partners. Among the notable names are Olympic figure skater Amber Glenn, actress Jenna Dewan, and musician Taylor Hanson, all vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
Amber Glenn, 26, is one of the standout competitors this season. Fresh off her Olympic triumph as part of Team USA, where she secured a gold medal in the 2026 Winter Olympics team event, Glenn is partnered with pro dancer Pasha Pashkov. Known for her remarkable figure skating skills, Glenn expressed her excitement about joining the show, stating, "It’s been a dream of mine to do DWTS since I saw Meryl [Davis] do it in 2014."
Another notable contestant is Jenna Dewan, 45, who is partnered with Val Chmerkovskiy. Dewan is best known for her role in the film "Step Up" and has a rich background in dance, having started her career as a professional dancer. Her experience is expected to give her an edge in the competition.
Harry Shum Jr., 44, who gained fame from his roles in "Glee" and "Grey's Anatomy," is also part of the cast, paired with Jenna Johnson. Shum's extensive dance background, which includes performing as a backup dancer for major artists like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez, will be a key asset in the ballroom.
Musician Taylor Hanson, 43, from the iconic band Hanson, will compete alongside Britt Stewart. Known for their hit song "MMMBop," Hanson's participation adds a nostalgic element to the season.
Other contestants include:
This season also features a historic moment with the introduction of the second same-sex partnership in the show's history. Sarah Jane Nader, known for her role in "Love Thy Nader," is paired with Hailey Bills, marking a progressive step for the long-running series. This follows the success of previous same-sex pairings, which have been well-received by audiences.
The competition is set to be fierce, with each contestant bringing their unique talents and backgrounds to the dance floor. The judging panel will consist of familiar faces Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli, who will evaluate the performances and provide feedback throughout the season. The co-hosting duo of Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough will guide viewers through the exciting episodes, promising a mix of drama, skill, and entertainment.
In addition to the competitive aspect, fans can look forward to the inaugural "DWTS After Party," which will air immediately after the September 16 episode. Season 34 champion Robert Irwin will host this special segment, providing insights into the performances and checking in with eliminated contestants.
As the premiere date approaches, the excitement is building among fans and contestants alike. Each celebrity is eager to showcase their skills and entertain viewers, hoping to win the prestigious Mirrorball Trophy. The new season promises to deliver thrilling performances, emotional moments, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.
With the season premiere just days away, the anticipation is reaching a fever pitch. Viewers can tune in to the two-night event starting September 15 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+. Following the live broadcasts, episodes will be available for streaming on Hulu the next day, allowing fans to catch up on all the dance floor action.
The stakes are high this season, as contestants compete for the trophy and for the admiration of the audience and judges. As the dancers prepare for their first performances, attention will turn to them to see who will shine in the spotlight and who might struggle under the pressure.
As the countdown to the premiere continues, the excitement surrounding "Dancing with the Stars" Season 35 is undeniable. With a diverse cast and a mix of talent, this season is set to be one for the books. The competition will officially begin on September 15, and fans are eager to see who will take home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy!