DWTS Season 35 Lineup Announced: 16 Celebrity-Pro Pairs, Return of Sharna Burgess, and a Same-Sex Partnership
The ABC competition series has confirmed its full roster of 16 celebrity contestants and their professional partners for the upcoming season. Notable pro changes include Witney Carson competing while pregnant, Sharna Burgess returning after a five-year hiatus, and Hailey Bills being promoted to pro, forming the show's third same-sex pairing. The season kicks off with a two-night premiere on Sept. 15 and 16, followed by a new after-show hosted by last season's winner Robert Irwin.
The season 35 roster brings notable shifts among the professional dancers. Witney Carson will compete while pregnant, while Sharna Burgess returns to the ballroom after a five-year absence. Hailey Bills, previously a troupe member, has been elevated to pro status and will participate in the show's third same-sex partnership. Gleb Savchenko, who had been a pro continuously from seasons 23 through 34, was not included in this year's lineup.
The premiere spans two nights, Sept. 15 and 16, airing on ABC and Disney+ before arriving on Hulu the following day. A new companion program, DWTS After Party, debuts Sept. 16 at 10 p.m. with Robert Irwin, last season's winner, hosting. The cast mixes reality television personalities, Olympians, and an Emmy-winning actress, with Tatyana Ali of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air paired with Jan Ravnik.
This season's casting choices could broaden the show's appeal by reflecting more diverse relationship dynamics and life circumstances, such as a pregnant competitor and a same-sex pairing. The addition of an after-show may deepen viewer engagement and extend the franchise's reach. However, the omission of a longtime pro like Gleb Savchenko could disappoint dedicated fans, potentially affecting audience sentiment and social media conversation around the premiere.