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A brand-new season of Dancing With the Starsis just around the corner, and fans are already buzzing with excitement about what season 34 has in store. From potential cast members to familiar faces returning to the ballroom, the long-running dance competition continues to evolve, while still holding onto the charm that’s made it a fan favorite for over three decades.
Even though the official premiere date is still under wraps, the excitement kicked off early this spring when Disney hosted its Get Real event in Los Angeles and dropped a few major announcements. With speculation swirling around the judges' panel, confirmed hosts, and one early standout contestant, here's a breakdown of everything we know about the upcoming season so far.
Scroll to find out everything you need to know about Dancing With The Stars season 34!
Who Are the Contestants Competing In Season 34?
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While the full cast list for Dancing With the Stars Season 34 hasn’t been revealed just yet, one name has already sparked major excitement online. On April 22, during Disney Entertainment Television’s Get Real event in LA, it was officially announced that Robert Irwin will be stepping into the ballroom this season. The wildlife conservationist — and son of the late Steve Irwin — expressed heartfelt enthusiasm about joining the show.
“I cannot tell you what a privilege, what an honor it is to be joining this season,” Irwin said at the event.
Judge and longtime DWTS figure Derek Hough also weighed in on Irwin’s addition, sharing his support during a chat with PEOPLE.
“It’s been 10 years since that little guy was on the front row rooting for [his sister],” Hough said, referencing Bindi Irwin’s winning season.
“To see the man that he’s become in 10 years is pretty amazing. We’re really lucky to have him.”
Who Are the Hosts of Season 34?
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Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro are officially returning to co-host Dancing With the Stars season 34. The announcement was made at the same April 2025 Disney event.
Hough brings years of experience to the role, having competed as a pro dancer for five seasons — and winning two Mirrorball Trophies — before joining the judges' panel for six more seasons. Ribeiro, meanwhile, has served as co-host since season 31 and famously won Season 19 alongside partner Witney Carson.
Which Judges Are Returning to the Panel?
ABC
No official confirmation has been given yet, but it’s widely expected that longtime judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli will return, along with Derek Hough. Inaba and Tonioli have appeared on the panel since the show’s very first season, and Hough — a beloved former pro himself — joined as a judge in season 29.
Fans can expect more clarity on the full panel as the season draws closer.
When Does Dancing With the Stars Season 34 Premiere?
ABC
A premiere date for Season 34 has not been confirmed, but based on the show’s recent scheduling, it’s likely to return in fall 2025.
Season 33 aired on both ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu — a format expected to continue for the new season.
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