AIWorldNewz.com

Dancing with the Stars Season 35: What’s Next in 2026?

Source: Is 'Dancing with the Stars' renewed for season 35? What we know (2025-11-26)

Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) concluded its record-breaking 34th season with wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin taking home the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, amid unprecedented viewership and voting numbers. As of late November 2025, fans are eager to know if DWTS will return for Season 35 in 2026, and while ABC has yet to make an official announcement, the show's recent success strongly suggests renewal. Season 34 set new benchmarks with over 72 million votes during the finale, the highest in recent years, and a peak live-plus-same-day viewership of approximately 6.7 million for the semifinals, marking a six-year high. The finale also featured social media influencer Alix Earle, who earned the only perfect score of the night and finished second, highlighting the show's ability to blend celebrity, entertainment, and viral trends. Building on this momentum, DWTS is poised to continue its legacy as a premier dance competition, with insiders hinting at innovative format updates and expanded digital engagement strategies for 2026. The show's renewal is further supported by its strategic partnerships with major brands, increased international adaptations, and a growing global fanbase. Notably, DWTS has been exploring augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) integrations to enhance viewer interaction, making the dance floor more immersive than ever. Additionally, the show’s social media campaigns have seen exponential growth, with TikTok and Instagram reels driving record engagement, especially among younger audiences. In the broader context of reality TV, DWTS’s resurgence aligns with a trend toward more interactive and socially connected programming, which has been reinforced by the success of recent seasons. The show's ability to adapt to changing viewer preferences—such as incorporating celebrity influencers and trending dance styles—has kept it relevant in a competitive entertainment landscape. Industry analysts predict that Season 35 will likely premiere in late September or early October 2026, coinciding with the fall TV season, and may feature a mix of returning fan favorites and fresh celebrity contestants from diverse backgrounds, including sports, entertainment, and activism. Furthermore, DWTS’s renewed focus on diversity and inclusion is expected to continue, with plans to feature more contestants from underrepresented communities and to highlight social causes through dance. This aligns with ABC’s broader strategy to promote social responsibility and cultural representation in its programming. The show’s production team is also exploring environmentally sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly costumes and reduced waste on set, reflecting a growing industry trend toward sustainability. In summary, while an official announcement is pending, the remarkable success of DWTS Season 34 indicates that Season 35 is highly likely, with a premiere anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026. The show’s innovative use of technology, strategic partnerships, and commitment to diversity position it well for continued growth and popularity. Fans can look forward to a season that not only celebrates dance but also embraces new media trends, social engagement, and cultural inclusivity, ensuring DWTS remains a staple of American entertainment for years to come.

More recent coverage