Dancing with the Stars has kicked off its landmark 35th season, now in full swing with an array of innovative episode themes designed to keep both contestants and viewers engaged. The highly acclaimed ABC dancing competition launched its latest series on 15 September, showcasing an impressive lineup of 16 celebrities paired with professional dancers. Following the format of previous years, the initial performances allowed the contestants to select a popular song from the year of their birth, setting the tone for the exciting weeks ahead.
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The competition’s opening night saw couples take to the floor in two separate evenings, with the male contestants performing first and the female contestants following suit. With a diverse mix of genres and styles on display, the pairs opted for a range of tunes. Notable performances included Jackson Olson and Emma Slater’s vibrant cha cha to the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe,” contrasting with Ciara Miller and Brandon Armstrong’s smooth foxtrot to Whitney Houston’s “Exhale (Shoop Shoop).”
As the season progressed into the second week, the theme revolved around viral hits that have captivated audiences and gone viral across social media platforms. Couples paid tribute to unforgettable internet moments, as reflected in Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov’s tango to t.A.T.u.’s “All the Things She Said” and Tyler Cameron and Sharna Burgess’s engaging salsa inspired by a viral scene from Off Campus.
The following episode dove into the mellow sounds of yacht rock, conjuring memories of smooth grooves and soft-rock classics from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Co-host Alfonso Ribeiro aptly described yacht rock as music with “absolutely no sense of urgency,” creating a laid-back atmosphere for the contestants’ performances. The night featured standout routines, such as Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson’s lively foxtrot to “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” and Taylor Hanson and Britt Stewart’s engaging dance to “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers.
As the competition continued, Week 4 was identified as “Mariah Carey Night,” providing an opportunity for the remaining couples to celebrate the chart-topping songs of the celebrated diva. Each pair showcased choreography set to their favourite Carey tracks, paying homage to the artist’s rich musical repertoire. Julia Stiles and Ezra Sosa’s Viennese waltz to “Vision of Love” was among the highlighted performances of the evening.
The fifth week introduced viewers to a first-of-its-kind Super Bowl Night, as contestants danced to memorable halftime performances, imbuing the competition with sports themes. This unique segment featured contributions from guest judge Joe Buck, a renowned broadcaster, who added an extra layer of authenticity to the episodes. Julia Stiles and Ezra Sosa recreated a notable performance from Stiles’ film Save the Last Dance, while other couples presented interpretation performances inspired by giants like Rihanna and Lady Gaga.
As the calendar progressed, the anticipation for Dedication Night grew, set for 20 October. This episode has become one of the most cherished highlights of each season, whereby couples pay tribute to significant individuals or influencers in their lives. Each contestant selects a song that resonates with their chosen subject, often bringing emotional depth to their routines. For instance, Stiles and Sosa plan to deliver a contemporary performance in memory of the late actor Heath Ledger.
Halloween-themed festivities will take centre stage in Week 7, where dancers will embrace the spooky atmosphere of horror movie night. Previous seasons have tackled iconic films such as A Quiet Place and Us, ensuring a thrilling night for competitors and viewers alike.
In another beloved tradition, Disney Night will unfold in Week 8, inviting couples to showcase their performances set to timeless Disney classics. It has established itself as a fan-favourite, with memorable renditions from animated films and theme park music capturing the imaginations of the audience. Furthermore, a new twist awaits in Week 9 with the introduction of Grammys Night, where contestants will honour the music industry’s biggest night, before culminating in Week 10 with the semi-finals showcasing the top pairs as they vie for positions in the grand finale.
Finally, the season will conclude with an exhilarating finale, a culmination of hard work from all participants over ten intensive weeks of training and performance. As couples strive to impress both the judges and viewers alike, the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy will be the ultimate prize for exceptional talent and dedication. The grand finale promises a showcase of varied dance styles, setting the stage for a celebration of journeys taken throughout this extraordinary season.