**Guillermo Rodriguez Joins Cast of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ for Season 35**
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The long-running dance competition series “Dancing with the Stars” is gearing up for its 35th season, set to premiere this autumn on ABC and Disney+. In an exciting announcement made during the June 17 episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, it was revealed that Guillermo Rodriguez, known as the beloved sidekick to host Jimmy Kimmel, will participate in this season as a contestant.
Guillermo Rodriguez, 55, has had a remarkable journey from his early days as a security guard to becoming a prominent figure on Kimmel’s show. His affable personality and charm have made him a favourite among audiences, marking a significant milestone as he transitions from the talk show setting to the dazzling world of dance.
The announcement of Rodriguez joining “Dancing with the Stars” comes as part of a larger lineup of celebrity contestants. He becomes the fourth confirmed participant, joining other notable figures such as Jackson Olson of the Savannah Bananas, Ciara Miller from “Summer House”, and Maura Higgins, who was the runner-up on “The Traitors.” The excitement for this season builds as additional cast members are expected to be unveiled ahead of its debut.
The full cast of celebrities and professional dancers is slated to be announced on September 2 during an episode of “Good Morning America”. This anticipation continues to grow, as fans eagerly await details on who will be vying for the coveted mirrorball trophy.
Ciara Miller shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming season during a previous interview with PEOPLE, expressing her eagerness to immerse herself in the Los Angeles lifestyle, particularly as it contrasts with her usual routines in New York City. Miller highlighted that having a dedicated dance schedule would be a welcome change and reminiscent of her earlier years of training.
Season 35 follows the impressive achievement of its predecessor, which saw a whopping 72 million votes cast during its finale and nearly half a billion votes throughout the complete season. Robert Irwin, partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson, emerged victorious in the finale held in November 2025, adding to the rich legacy of the competition.
In addition to the excitement surrounding the main series, fans can look forward to “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro,” which is set to debut on July 13 on ABC. Hosted by Robert Irwin, this new format will showcase 12 promising up-and-coming dancers who will face rigorous challenges while competing for a position as a professional dancer on the main show. This initiative aims to introduce fresh talent to the franchise and further enrich the viewer experience.
“Dancing with the Stars” has established itself as a cultural phenomenon over the years, blending the art of dance with the thrill of competition and celebrity allure. The show consistently attracts audiences with its blend of talent, entertainment, and emotional storytelling, and the upcoming season is expected to uphold this tradition.
Fans can catch the competition and its growing roster of stars when “Dancing with the Stars” Season 35 premieres in the fall on ABC and Disney+. Additionally, for those who may miss an episode, the show will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day, ensuring that no one has to miss out on the action.
With the excitement building and expectations high, this season promises to deliver unforgettable performances and maybe even some surprising moments, as contestants like Guillermo Rodriguez take to the dance floor to showcase their skills.