“Dancing With the Stars,” now in its 33rd season, continues to shatter records as it gears up for a landmark 500th episode on November 12. Since its inception in 2005, the show has welcomed 51 professional dancers and 394 celebrity contestants, earning 21 Emmy Awards along the way. Remarkably, this season has already seen record-breaking votes on three occasions, with the most recent episode garnering over 19 million votes. The show has claimed the top spot among entertainment programs on broadcast for viewers aged 18-49, achieving a 0.69 rating in Live+Same Day metrics and an impressive growth in Live+35 viewership, with 8.1 million people tuning in for the season premiere—a significant increase of over 60% from previous statistics.
Rob Mills, Disney Television’s executive vice president of unscripted and alternative entertainment, attributes the show’s successful revival to its strong cast. “What was magic about the show in its heyday is back,” Mills noted, emphasizing the importance of casting participants who genuinely want to compete and have intriguing personal stories.
This season has effectively balanced celebrity contestants who attract viewership and those who bring heartfelt narratives. Examples include 69-year-old Barry Williams, who always dreamed of dancing on the show, and Anna Delvey, known for her controversial past, who provided viral moments yet was eliminated in the first week. This careful selection underscores the objective of creating a season in which viewers develop attachments to the contestants.
The influence of social media, particularly TikTok, has also played a vital role in revitalizing the show’s popularity among younger audiences, many of whom may have first experienced “Dancing With the Stars” through their parents. Co-executive producer Deena Katz expressed the challenge of appealing to both the core audience and newer viewers alike. The show has become a remarkable blend of nostalgia and modern appeal.
As it celebrates its 500th episode, “Dancing With the Stars” embodies a comforting mix of positivity, community, and shared aspirations, drawing viewers together in a divided world. Showrunner Conrad Green highlighted the show’s role as a unifying cultural experience, noting its inherent positivity that resonates with audiences.
The ongoing engagement with fans has resulted in increased vote counts even as contestants are gradually eliminated, hinting at the show’s enduring charm. With each episode, “Dancing With the Stars” reaffirms its status as a beacon of hope and joy during a time when uplifting entertainment is more crucial than ever.
The series airs on ABC and streams on Disney+ every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET, also available for streaming the following day on Hulu.
In summary, “Dancing With the Stars” is not only celebrating its incredible milestone but is also redefining its approach to audience engagement, balancing tradition with innovation, ultimately reinforcing its legacy in the entertainment industry. The show’s ability to adapt while maintaining its core spirit showcases a promising future in a rapidly changing media landscape.