Julianne Hough and Bruno Tonioli Reflect on “Dancing with the Stars”’ Early Struggles: ‘Got Turned Down So Many Times’ (Exclusive)

**Dancing With The Stars: Celebrating Over Two Decades of Success**

Since its inception in June 2005, *Dancing with the Stars* has evolved from a concept fraught with uncertainty to a beloved television staple. As the programme gears up for its 35th season, set to debut in the autumn, co-hosts Julianne Hough and Bruno Tonioli recently shared insights into the show’s remarkable journey during the Disney 2026 Upfront event in New York City on May 12.

Upon its launch, the premise of pairing celebrities with professional dancers to compete in a ballroom dance-off seemed an unusual gamble. Hough, 37, reflects on the initial opposition the show faced, saying, “This show got turned down so many times at the beginning because people were like, a ballroom dancing show? Like, what? Is that really a thing?” Despite the scepticism, the show not only found its audience but also embarked on a path to prominence alongside other popular television offerings.

Tonioli, who has remained a fixture on the judging panel since the first series, remembers the uncertainty surrounding the programme’s future. He recounted how high-ranking network executives expressed doubts about the venture’s viability. “It was May 2005… everyone was saying, ‘This is never gonna work. They’re crazy,'” he shared. The turning point came when Andrea Wong, who was then running ABC, approved the show for production, allowing it to move forward amid the initial trepidation.

As the seasons unfolded, *Dancing with the Stars* began to establish its unique formula for success, blending exhilarating performances with heartfelt storytelling and engaging audience interaction through voting. Tonioli noted that within a year, the show shared the spotlight with *American Idol*, a feat he admits was hard to comprehend. The programme has since provided a grand stage for professional dancers and offered celebrities an opportunity to break away from their public personas and reveal their more vulnerable sides.

The enduring popularity of the show can be largely attributed to its authenticity, according to Tonioli. “The reason it lasted… is because it is a show that has a beating heart—it’s not fake. We really do it because we love it,” he explained, emphasising the programme’s unwavering commitment to improvement and innovation. “We are really there 100%… I think people get that. They get the truth,” he added.

Similarly, Hough, who joined the cast as a professional dancer in 2007, expressed her belief that the programme’s focus on transformation and communal experience resonates with viewers. She remarked, “What this show is — which is craftsmanship, just rooting for people to grow and succeed… that’s timeless.” Her sentiments speak to the show’s ability to not only endure but thrive, now boasting a legacy of over 20 years.

In addition to its continuous success, *Dancing with the Stars* is set to expand its footprint further with a new spin-off, *Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro*, which is set to premiere on July 13, 2026, on ABC and Hulu. Hosted by the winner of season 34, Robert Irwin, the upcoming series will see 12 aspiring dancers compete for a coveted professional spot in the next season.

Hough expressed excitement about this new development, noting the importance of providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills. “To see the level of talent, the dedication and the execution—let them get their flowers and be a part of the biggest dance show in the world,” she said, reflecting on the impact this new generation of dancers will have on the show’s legacy.

As *Dancing with the Stars* approaches its milestone season, both Hough and Tonioli are optimistic about the future, confident that the show’s core values of authenticity, passion, and compassion will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come. With a rich history behind it and an exciting new chapter on the horizon, the show remains a testament to the power of dance, storytelling, and the enduring appeal of personal transformation.