The countdown to the new season of Dancing With the Stars is officially underway as the first celebrity contestant for Season 34 has been revealed. Robert Irwin, the son of the esteemed wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, will be joining the cast. This exciting announcement comes on the heels of the successful 33rd season, which concluded in November 2024 with Joey Graziadei and pro partner Jenna Johnson taking home the highly coveted mirrorball trophy. Their victory was particularly memorable, breaking records as the season garnered the highest ratings among adults aged 18-24 in four years, with more than 32 million votes cast during the finale.
In an exclusive interview following their triumph, an amazed Joey expressed his disbelief, recalling the moment as a blur, while Jenna humorously remarked about the weight of the trophy they won. The duo’s celebration extended into the DWTS Live Tour, which wrapped up in April, fueling anticipation for the upcoming season.
As fans gear up for Season 34, scheduled to return this fall on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET, they can look forward to more competitive excitement. Alongside the reveal of Irwin, social media influencer Alix Earle was announced as another cast member in May, sharing her enthusiasm to take on the challenge and create memorable experiences on the show.
While the full roster of professional dancers has yet to be disclosed, fans can expect some returning favorites, including Jenna Johnson, along with co-hosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro. Judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli are also set to return for their judging roles.
The blend of seasoned competitors and fresh faces promises a dynamic season ahead, keeping viewers engaged with performances full of passion and creativity. As the new season approaches, fans can only imagine the showstopping routines and heartfelt moments that await on the dance floor.