The wait is finally over , the Dancing with the Stars Season 35 celebrity lineup has been officially unveiled, and the roster is one of the most eclectic in recent memory. From Olympic gold medalists to reality TV icons, sitcom legends to social media superstars, this season promises to deliver the energy, drama, and dazzling choreography that fans of the long-running ballroom competition have come to love. Whether you’re a devoted viewer who has tuned in for decades or a curious newcomer, this cast list is guaranteed to spark plenty of watercooler conversation.
With the two-night premiere event locked in for September, here’s everything you need to know about the stars hitting the dance floor, their professional partners, and the fresh additions coming to your Tuesday and Wednesday evenings on ABC.
The Full Celebrity and Pro Dancer Pairings for Season 35
The Season 35 lineup was announced on “Good Morning America,” and producers didn’t hold back when assembling a truly diverse mix of athletes, entertainers, and personalities. Below is the complete roster, presented in alphabetical order, along with each celebrity’s seasoned professional partner:
- Tatyana Ali , the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” star pairs up with Jan Ravnik
- Tyler Cameron , TV personality and host teams with Sharna Burgess
- Giada De Laurentiis , celebrity chef and host dances with Alan Bersten
- Jenna Dewan , “The Rookie” star partners with Val Chmerkovskiy
- Ezra Frech , Paralympian gold medalist joins forces with Daniella Karagach
- Amber Glenn , Olympian gold medalist teams with Pasha Pashkov
- Taylor Hanson , one-third of the beloved band Hanson, dancing with Britt Stewart
- Maura Higgins , reality star and model pairs with Mark Ballas
- Conner Leavitt , from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” teams with Adele Zaikman
- Ciara Miller , reality star and host dances with Brandon Armstrong
- Sarah Jane Nader , from “Love Thy Nader” partners with Hailey Bills
- Jackson Olson , “Savannah Bananas” star dances with Emma Slater
- Guillermo Rodriguez , “Jimmy Kimmel Live” mainstay teams with Witney Carson
- Harry Shum Jr. , “Grey’s Anatomy” star pairs with Jenna Johnson
- Julia Stiles , film and TV star dances with Ezra Sosa
- Connor Wood , comedian and podcaster teams with Rylee Arnold
The Familiar Faces Holding Down the Judge’s Table
Fans of Dancing with the Stars can breathe a collective sigh of relief , the iconic judging panel is back in full force. Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough return to the ballroom to deliver their signature critiques, witty banter, and occasionally soaring scores. This trio has become synonymous with the franchise, and their chemistry continues to elevate the show’s dramatic moments. Whether Bruno is leaping out of his seat for a perfect routine or Carrie Ann is offering emotional feedback, the judges’ presence is part of the DNA that makes DWTS feel like home.
Hosts Who Keep the Energy Alive
Back at the helm are the dynamic co-hosts who guide viewers through each glittering episode: Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough. Alfonso, a former mirrorball trophy winner himself, brings his infectious charisma and genuine love for the competition. Julianne, a two-time champion and sister of judge Derek Hough, adds insider perspective and effervescent energy to the proceedings. Together, they’ve become a beloved hosting duo, seamlessly balancing humor, heart, and showmanship.
A New Voice Joins the Conversation
Fresh off his Season 34 run, comedian Andy Richter takes the reins of the Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast. Known for his quick wit and analytical mind, Richter is poised to give fans an entertaining and revealing behind-the-scenes companion to each week’s episode. His perspective as a recent contestant adds a unique lens to the post-show commentary.
Olympic and Paralympic Gold in the Ballroom
One of the most exciting storylines heading into Season 35 is the presence of not one, but two world-class athletes. Ezra Frech, the Paralympian gold medalist, brings unmatched athleticism and an inspiring personal story to the dance floor. His partnership with Daniella Karagach , a seasoned pro and past champion , could prove to be one of the most talked-about pairings of the season.
Joining him is Amber Glenn, the Olympian gold medalist whose discipline, grace, and competitive fire are precisely the qualities that translate well to ballroom dancing. Paired with Pasha Pashkov, she represents one of the most physically capable contestants in recent memory. With two decorated athletes competing for the coveted mirrorball trophy, sports fans have plenty of reasons to tune in.
Reality TV Royalty Takes the Stage
Few franchises capture the reality TV zeitgeist quite like Dancing with the Stars, and Season 35 leans heavily into casting popular reality personalities:
- Maura Higgins , the Irish model and television personality became a household name on “Love Island.” Partnered with Mark Ballas, she brings runway confidence to the ballroom.
- Ciara Miller , known from reality television, she was introduced at Hulu’s Get Real event in April alongside Higgins, building anticipation for months.
- Conner Leavitt , hailing from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” he represents the latest wave of viral reality stars finding mainstream crossover appeal.
- Sarah Jane Nader , from “Love Thy Nader,” she rounds out the reality-driven contingent.
Hollywood Veterans and Surprise Picks
The Season 35 cast also boasts a remarkable lineup of established Hollywood talent. Jenna Dewan, best known for her role on “The Rookie” (and her history with dance-heavy productions), brings genuine dance credibility to the competition. She’s matched with longtime fan-favorite pro Val Chmerkovskiy, a pairing that has serious mirrorball potential.
Julia Stiles, the actress beloved for roles in iconic films, is another headline-grabbing addition. Her pairing with rising pro Ezra Sosa gives Sosa one of his most high-profile celebrity partners yet.
Harry Shum Jr. from “Grey’s Anatomy” already has extensive dance experience from his time in the film and TV industry, making him a formidable competitor alongside partner Jenna Johnson.
And who could forget Tatyana Ali, the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” star whose multitalented career gives her a strong creative foundation as she dances with Jan Ravnik.
A Few Wildcards Worth Watching
Every season, the most unexpected casting choices often become viewer favorites. This year, Guillermo Rodriguez , the lovable sidekick from “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” , represents one of the most charming wildcards. After being announced by Kimmel himself back in June, anticipation for his ballroom debut has been steadily building. Paired with pro Witney Carson, his likability alone could carry him deep into the competition.
Meanwhile, Jackson Olson brings the energy of the viral “Savannah Bananas” baseball phenomenon to the dance floor with partner Emma Slater. Taylor Hanson, of the ’90s pop sensation Hanson, adds nostalgic appeal alongside Britt Stewart. Reality heartthrob and former “Bachelorette” contestant Tyler Cameron pairs with Sharna Burgess, while food TV favorite Giada De Laurentiis dances with Alan Bersten.
When and How to Watch the Premiere
The Dancing with the Stars Season 35 two-night premiere event kicks off on Tuesday, September 15, and continues on Wednesday, September 16. Both episodes air at 8 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PST on ABC and Disney+, with streaming available the following day on Hulu.
The Debut of “DWTS After Party”
In a brand-new addition to the franchise, the first-ever “DWTS After Party” will air immediately following Wednesday night’s premiere at 10 p.m. on ABC and Disney+. Hosting the special is Robert Irwin, the Season 34 champion whose unforgettable win earned him a new role within the DWTS family. The After Party will feature check-ins with eliminated contestants, breakdowns of standout routines, and reflections from “DWTS” alumni , essentially giving fans a deeper, more conversational take on the week’s biggest moments.
Final Thoughts on the Season Ahead
With a host lineup that pairs familiar favorites with bold new talent, a judging panel that delivers every single episode, and a celebrity cast representing the very best of pop culture, sports, and entertainment, Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet. The combination of Olympic-caliber athleticism, Hollywood charisma, and reality TV star power sets the stage for a season full of surprises, dramatic dance-offs, and emotional journeys.
Whether you’re rooting for the seasoned pros to claim another trophy or backing a dark horse underdog to steal your heart, one thing is certain , DWTS Season 35 is ready to bring the sparkle, sweat, and showmanship back to your living room this fall. Mark your calendars, grab your scorecards, and prepare for another unforgettable run at the mirrorball trophy.
