Wisconsin is getting extra attention on this season of “Dancing with the Stars,” as two of its contestants share a connection to the state. This week’s show, airing on Tuesday, November 11, will be particularly special as it marks the show’s “20th Birthday Party.” The celebration features beloved faces from past seasons, the introduction of a unique “Relay Dance” round, and much more, as detailed in an ABC news release.
The innovative relay round involves two couples taking turns to perform; one will dance the first half of a song, while the second couple completes it. For the first time, celebrities competing—except for one with relay immunity—will be partnered with former Mirrorball champions. Among those competing, Alix Earle, a mega-influencer, is set to partner with Joey Graziadei, who previously won the Mirrorball in Season 33 and currently hosts the “Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast.” Earle has shared moments of levity on social media, even posting an amusing snapshot while she seemingly dealt with an injury during rehearsals.
Both Earle and Graziadei boast Wisconsin heritage, with Earle often visiting family in Milwaukee and celebrating memorable times such as Thanksgiving in Green Bay. Graziadei is also a passionate supporter of the Green Bay Packers. The episode promises to be star-studded, and judges will confer bonus points for the winning couples in each relay performance.
Before the relay round kicks off, contestants will perform a new routine, each inspired by a prior iconic freestyle. Earle and Chmerkovskiy will be dancing a foxtrot to Matthew Morrison’s rendition of “Singin’ in the Rain.” The couples that manage to avoid elimination this week will advance to the highly anticipated show’s semifinals.
The birthday special will commence with a lively opening featuring the current pros, who will be joined by six original pros from Season 1, including Alec Mazo and Edyta Śliwińska. The choreography for this segment is designed by judge Derek Hough and will showcase a new live version of the “DWTS” theme.
Returning to judge the celebration will be former longtime host Tom Bergeron. Additionally, the show will pay tribute to past “DWTS” performers who have passed away with a heartfelt performance choreographed by experts Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold.
As the competition progresses, the seven remaining celebrities are eager to secure their spots in the show’s semifinals, showcasing different dance styles throughout the episode. The spirit of the competition continues strong, as viewers can vote for their favorites during the live broadcast, with mobile voting available in participating carriers, ultimately determining which couples will move forward in the season’s journey.
“Dancing with the Stars” airs live at 7 p.m. CT every Tuesday on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu.