Jan Ravnik, one of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour dancers, is headed to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom as the show’s newest professional for season 34. The former Eras Tour troupe member announced his joining in a video message, expressing excitement about bringing his experience to DWTS and chasing the Mirrorball Trophy.
Ravnik rose to prominence by traveling the globe with Swift, performing in sold-out stadiums and contributing to the tour’s distinctive choreography. His career in dance spans decades, with past credits on the 97th Academy Awards, Mariah Carey’s Christmas special, and performances alongside industry legends such as Paula Abdul and Bruno Mars. In a nod to his hard-won versatility, Ravnik has also showcased his own choreography and has collaborated with renowned choreographers and artists over the years.
Ahead of the official reveal, fans had already started connecting the dots. DWTS teased Ravnik’s potential involvement with a purple sparkly post, a color closely associated with one of Swift’s eras, fueling speculation among Swifties and DWTS enthusiasts alike. The excitement grew further when a clip of Ravnik dancing with pro Jenna Johnson circulated on social media, feeding speculation about a DWTS casting surprise.
Ravnik has spoken fondly of his time with Swift, describing the Eras Tour as a life-changing experience. He recently reflected on the journey with gratitude, noting how performing in front of global audiences and working with a team of dedicated dancers, musicians, and crew pushed him to grow as an artist. He also publicly thanked Mandy Moore for her visionary choreography and guidance, highlighting the influence of that collaboration on his craft.
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars has begun unveiling its lineup, with early announced celebs including wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, social media personality Alix Earle, and reality TV stars Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt. The new season is set to premiere on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesday, September 16, at 8 p.m. ET, with new episodes available to stream the following day on Hulu.
Commentary and outlook:
Ravnik’s move from the Eras Tour stage to DWTS brings a high-energy, globally seasoned dancer into a show known for its dynamic performances and storytelling through movement. His background suggests a flair for large-scale, theatrical choreography, which could translate into standout numbers that resonate with both Swift fans and DWTS viewers. The cross-pollination between Swift’s touring world and DWTS could also broaden audience appeal, attracting fans who follow Ravnik’s career beyond the concert stage. If his DWTS journey mirrors the infectious energy of his Eras Tour work, season 34 could deliver fresh, entertaining performances that showcase his versatility and vibrant stage presence.
Summary:
Jan Ravnik, a longtime Eras Tour dancer for Taylor Swift, is joining Dancing With the Stars season 34 as a pro. With a rich background in major live events and collaborations with top choreographers, Ravnik is poised to bring his international stage experience to DWTS, alongside an already buzz-worthy season lineup. The show premieres September 16 on ABC and Disney+, with episodes streaming on Hulu the next day.