Carrie Ann Inaba, a beloved judge on “Dancing with the Stars”, recently announced her absence for the premiere of season 34 of the popular ABC dance competition. The 57-year-old shared on Instagram just hours before the premiere on Tuesday, Sept. 16, that she would not be present at the show’s taping due to feeling unwell. In her post, Inaba expressed her disappointment at missing the event but reassured fans that she was taking time to rest and recover, looking forward to returning in good health for the following week. She sent her best wishes to all the contestants for the premiere night and promised to cheer them on from home with emojis of encouragement.
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As fans eagerly anticipated the premiere, it was revealed that there would be no replacement for Inaba on the show that evening, with expectations for her to make a full recovery and return in the next episode. Inaba’s absence prompted an outpouring of support from her fellow “Dancing with the Stars” cast members, including well wishes from pro dancer Jenna Johnson, co-host Julianne Hough, and judge Derek Hough. Additionally, season 34 participants such as Hilaria Baldwin, Robert Irwin, and Jordan Chiles sent their heartfelt messages of support to Inaba as she focused on her recovery.

The star-studded lineup for season 34 of “Dancing with the Stars” includes a diverse range of celebrities and their professional dance partners. Participants such as wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, social media star Dylan Efron, Boy Meets World alum Danielle Fishel, and NBA All-Star Baron Davis are set to showcase their dance skills in the ballroom under the watchful eyes of the judges. With such a competitive and talented lineup, the new season promises to be filled with exciting performances and unforgettable moments.
Carrie Ann Inaba has been a staple on “Dancing with the Stars” since its inception in 2005, bringing her expertise and passion for dance to the judging panel for over two decades. Inaba reflected on her journey with the show in a poignant Instagram post earlier this year, commemorating her 20th anniversary on the series. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share her thoughts and experiences, shaping the dance competition’s narrative and connecting with viewers through the artistry of dance. Despite her temporary absence, Inaba’s influence and presence on the show remain an integral part of its success.
As “Dancing with the Stars” season 34 continues to unfold, fans can watch the exciting performances and captivating moments on ABC and Disney+ as the competition heats up. The show’s streaming availability on Hulu the following day allows viewers to catch up on all the action and drama from the ballroom. With Carrie Ann Inaba’s imminent return and the stellar lineup of celebrity contestants, this season promises to be a thrilling rollercoaster ride of dance, passion, and entertainment for audiences around the world.
