Witney Carson, famed for her impressive performances on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ (DWTS), is set to make a return to the show for her 16th season, which starts on September 15. This season not only marks a continuation of her illustrious career but also adds a unique twist as she embarks on this journey during her second trimester of pregnancy, making her the first professional dancer on the show to compete this far along.
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Standing at 5’3″, Carson often manages to go unnoticed during her daily errands in Orlando while dressed in casual attire. However, the two-time Mirrorball Trophy winner frequently draws attention from fans and admirers alike. “You look shorter in person!” is a common remark she receives, a humorous observation given that on DWTS she is often paired with the shorter male celebrities. “I’m a mini-human,” she quips, showcasing her light-hearted nature.
In the ballroom, the professional dancer embodies strength, but her preparations for the upcoming season are combined with the challenges of early pregnancy symptoms. She is poised to partner with Guillermo Rodriguez, the sidekick of Jimmy Kimmel, as the season commences. Carson is realistic about her limitations during this phase, suggesting that certain dance styles, such as the intimate rumba, may not be suitable due to her condition. However, she remains optimistic and intends to adapt where possible.
As she balances the demands of a thriving career and family responsibilities, Carson, along with her husband, Carson McAllister, share their lives across Florida, Los Angeles and Utah. The couple has two boys, Leo, aged 5, and Jet, aged 3, and they seem to revel in the hectic pace of their lifestyle. “We thrive in the chaos,” Carson remarks, reflecting on their dynamic family life.
Carson’s passion for dancing began when her mother signed her up for lessons at the young age of three at the Center Stage dance studio in Orem, Utah. She recalls her mother, who grew up in a challenging financial environment, as her biggest supporter. Carson’s journey in dance took a pivotal turn at 18 when she auditioned for ‘So You Think You Can Dance’, soon leading her to DWTS, where she clinched her first championship at just 19 years old alongside partner Alfonso Ribeiro.
The couple’s romance dates back to when they first met at the age of 14, though McAllister notes that it took time for him to get Carson’s attention. They started dating at 17, and their connection culminated in a heartfelt wedding in 2016, where Ribeiro’s sons participated as ring bearers. During the celebration, Carson choreographed a lively dance to “It’s Tricky” by Run-DMC, delighting the guests with the showcase of her talents.
Both Carson and McAllister are rooted in their Mormon faith, which continues to guide their family. As Carson anticipates expanding her family, she expresses her desire to have a daughter. Alongside her family aspirations, she also runs her fitness app, Finesse by Witney, which she launched in 2025, sharing her postpartum journey with her audience.
In addition to her role on DWTS, Carson has taken on guest judging and co-hosting opportunities, including her recent appearance on “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.” She expresses a desire to reveal more of her personality in future projects, hinting at potential television ventures. Interestingly, Carson was approached to be part of the reality series “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” given her competitive dance background with one of its prominent stars, though she clarifies that the show’s portrayal does not represent the whole Mormon community.
With playful aspirations, Carson shares that she would love to participate in a different reality show—“The Traitors.” “I know I look really sweet, and for the most part I am, but I would love to smile through lies, and everyone would believe me,” she adds, showcasing her sense of humour and fun-loving spirit.
As the world of ballroom dancing eagerly awaits the premiere of season 35, audiences can tune in for a two-night event on September 15 and 16 on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu. The excitement is palpable as Carson returns to the stage, balancing her burgeoning family life and a remarkable career.