The preliminary list of stars set to compete in the 35th season of the American dance competition, Dancing With the Stars, has begun to emerge. While the full roster of contestants is officially slated for announcement on September 2, a few names have already been confirmed, sparking early discussions among fans.
Dancing With the Stars, which airs on Disney+ in the United States, is the American equivalent of the BBC's highly successful Strictly Come Dancing. Both programmes share a similar format, pairing celebrities with professional dancers to compete in ballroom and Latin routines, judged by a panel of experts and public vote.
The show has a long history of featuring a diverse range of public figures, from actors and musicians to athletes and reality television personalities. The reveal of early names often generates significant interest, as viewers speculate on potential partnerships and early front-runners for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Details regarding the specific celebrities confirmed so far have not been widely disseminated in the UK, but the build-up to the full announcement is typical for such a high-profile entertainment series.
For UK audiences, while Dancing With the Stars is not directly broadcast on terrestrial channels, its format and cultural impact are well understood through the enduring popularity of Strictly Come Dancing. Many British viewers follow the American version online, often comparing the celebrity choices and dance standards across the two franchises. The show has previously seen British celebrities participate, further linking the two nations' dance show cultures.
The full cast reveal on September 2 will be a key moment for fans, as it will finalise the line-up of celebrities hoping to impress the judges and secure public favour. The competition typically runs for several weeks, culminating in a grand finale where one couple is crowned champion.
Source: Unnamed sources familiar with the show's production