Guillermo Rodriguez, known for his role as Jimmy Kimmel’s right-hand man, will be joining the upcoming 35th season of the popular dance competition show, *Dancing with the Stars*. The announcement was made on *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* during a segment aired on June 17, 2026.
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Kimmel teased the reveal of a “major celebrity contestant” before introducing Rodriguez to the live audience. The atmosphere was electrified as Kimmel described Rodriguez as “someone you know, someone you love,” paving the way for a dramatic unveiling. The announcement culminated in a theatrical reveal, with Rodriguez stepping onto the stage in an eye-catching blue outfit, to the audience’s enthusiasm.
In a humorous exchange, Kimmel remarked, “This September, Guillermo will become the first ever parking lot security guard to dance with the stars.” The late-night host’s playful banter did not end there; he further advised Rodriguez to “not lose a single adorable pound,” to which Rodriguez light-heartedly replied, promising that should he lose weight, he would soon gain it back again.
Rodriguez’s journey to the dance floor is rooted in his years as a security guard before he became a prominent figure on Kimmel’s show. Over time, he developed a loyal following, transitioning from security to a valued member of the *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* team. His past experiences include serving as a correspondent for events such as the Oscars and hosting special segments during high-profile occasions, including his memorable appearances at the NBA Finals.
Joining Rodriguez in the forthcoming season are other notable figures, including Jackson Olson from the Savannah Bananas, Ciara Miller from *Summer House*, and Maura Higgins, who was a runner-up on *The Traitors*. The complete cast, featuring both celebrity contestants and professional dancers, is expected to be revealed on September 2, during a special segment on *Good Morning America*.
Excitement surrounding Rodriguez’s participation has resonated within the dance community. Julianne Hough expressed her enthusiasm on social media, commenting, “Beyond excited to be in the ballroom together – when in doubt, shake it out Guillermo.” Fellow contestant Emma Slater also chimed in, mused that if he is not her partner, he would serve as her “biggest competition,” hinting at a friendly rivalry ahead.
The 35th season of *Dancing with the Stars* is generating substantial buzz following its previous season, which garnered an impressive 72 million votes during the finale alone. The latest season ultimately saw Robert Irwin win alongside pro dancer Witney Carson, solidifying the show’s status as a fan favourite.
Before this exciting season begins, fans of the franchise can look forward to “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro,” a companion series that will see 12 aspiring dancers compete for a chance to join the main cast. This new show, hosted by Robert Irwin, is set to premiere on July 13, providing audiences with further insights into the realities of dance competition.
The 35th season of *Dancing with the Stars* is slated to debut this autumn on ABC and Disney+, with episodes also available for streaming the following day on Hulu. As anticipation grows, it is clear that this season will be one for the books, especially with the inclusion of such a beloved personality as Guillermo Rodriguez.
With the dance floor ready to welcome new talent and familiar faces alike, audiences can expect a season filled with drama, excitement, and of course, plenty of captivating performances.