The ballroom is heating up! Fans of glitz, glamour, and gravity-defying moves are buzzing as ABC and Disney+ officially unveil the Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) Season 34 cast. This highly anticipated lineup promises a captivating blend of seasoned performers, beloved actors, and surprising personalities, all vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Announced exclusively on “Good Morning America” this Wednesday, the new season is set to deliver drama, emotion, and unforgettable routines starting September 16.
Headlining the star-studded roster are two names already generating significant excitement: author and wellness enthusiast Hilaria Baldwin, wife of actor Alec Baldwin, and iconic musician and former child star Corey Feldman. Their inclusion, alongside a diverse group of celebrities, signals a season rich with compelling personal stories and fierce competition.
The Highly Anticipated DWTS Season 34 Cast Revealed
The official reveal confirms a vibrant array of talent ready to transform their celebrity status into dance floor prowess. The new season of DWTS, marking its 20th anniversary, will premiere on September 16, broadcasting live on ABC and streaming concurrently on Disney+. For those who miss the live show, next-day streaming will be available on Hulu, ensuring no one misses a step.
Among the freshly announced stars, Hilaria Baldwin is paired with fan-favorite professional dancer Gleb Savchenko. Corey Feldman will take to the floor with Jenna Johnson, a returning pro known for her dynamic choreography. These pairings are just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary season.
Hilaria Baldwin’s Emotional Return to the Dance Floor
Hilaria Baldwin’s journey to the DWTS stage is particularly compelling. At 41, she brings a deep-rooted history with dance, having been a dedicated ballroom dancer since childhood. Her passion even led her to compete with New York University’s ballroom team. Despite this extensive background, Baldwin initially hesitated for years to join the show, fearing her experience might make her too advanced. However, a significant past injury ultimately closed that chapter of her life—until now.
Sixteen years ago, a broken hip forced Baldwin to step away from professional dancing, redirecting her focus to yoga and family. Her recent “Dance Mom” TikTok routines, often featuring her husband Alec, are credited by Baldwin herself for sparking the fan interest that led ABC producers to reach out. Describing her path to DWTS as a “mystical journey,” she finalized the deal just weeks before the announcement.
This return signifies a “fresh chapter” for Baldwin and her family. She’s relocating to Los Angeles for the competition, bringing husband Alec Baldwin and their seven children with her, a move she candidly described as “something crazy.” Her family’s TLC reality series, “The Baldwins,” has not been renewed, meaning the cameras won’t follow her DWTS experience.
While her ballroom foundation is strong, Baldwin anticipates challenges with Latin-heavy dance styles. The physical toll of returning to such rigorous training after a serious injury and the changes her body has undergone will be a significant hurdle. Furthermore, the Baldwins have often been a “public lightning rod” due to their outspoken views and social media presence, compounded by Alec Baldwin’s legal troubles. However, Hilaria remains focused, stating, “I’ve learned in my 40s that if you go through life trying to prove things to people, then you’re missing the point and you’re missing being present.” For her, this is about personal growth and a new beginning.
Corey Feldman Steps Into the Spotlight
Musician and former child star Corey Feldman joins the DWTS Season 34 cast, ready to showcase a different side of his talent. Known for his roles in iconic ’80s films and a prolific music career, Feldman’s presence adds another layer of intrigue. Paired with professional dancer Jenna Johnson, fans will be eager to see how his unique energy translates to the ballroom.
A Nostalgic Trip: ’90s Favorites Enter the Ballroom
Get ready for a blast from the past as two beloved ’90s actresses make their debut. Danielle Fishel, etched in pop culture history as the free-spirited Topanga Lawrence from “Boy Meets World,” will dance with Pasha Pashkov. Her journey from the halls of John Adams High to the dance floor is sure to captivate.
Joining her is Elaine Hendrix, an actress whose role as the mischievous Meredith Blake in “The Parent Trap” defined a “celebrated vibe” for an entire generation. Also recognized for her parts in “Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion” and a recent “Freakier Friday” cameo, Hendrix is paired with Alan Bersten. Their performances are bound to trigger fond memories for many viewers.
Diverse Talent: Athletes, Musicians, Comedians & More
The DWTS cast is truly a mosaic of talent from various fields, ensuring broad appeal and varied skill sets:
Athletes: Olympic gold medalist gymnast Jordan Chiles and NBA All-Star Baron Davis bring their competitive spirit and physical prowess.
Musicians: Scott Hoying from the Grammy-winning group Pentatonix will perform with Rylee Arnold, while Fifth Harmony singer Lauren Jauregui is paired with Brandon Armstrong.
Comedian: Andy Richter, known as Conan O’Brien’s long-time sidekick, adds a touch of humor and unexpected charm.
Reality TV & Influencers: Dylan Efron, brother of actor Zac Efron, and Alix Earle, a prominent TikTok dance influencer, are set to bring their social media following to the mainstream stage.
- Public Figures: Wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, son of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, and “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” stars Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt round out this exciting roster.
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A fresh face also joins the professional dancer ranks: Jan Ravnik. Known for his role as a backup dancer on Taylor Swift’s highly successful Eras Tour, Ravnik will partner with Jen Affleck. His enthusiasm is palpable, having stated, “Mirrorball never goes out of style, and we are ready to win it,” a clever nod to Swift’s music and the show’s grand prize.
What to Expect from the Milestone 20th Anniversary Season
This landmark 20th anniversary season of Dancing with the Stars promises to be more than just a dance competition. It’s an opportunity for celebrities to push their personal boundaries, learn new skills, and connect with audiences in a deeply personal way. The diverse cast, from seasoned performers to unexpected entrants, ensures a dynamic viewing experience.
Beyond the Steps: Personal Journeys and Public Gaze
Each celebrity brings a unique story to the ballroom, but for many, the journey involves overcoming personal obstacles. Hilaria Baldwin’s physical recovery from a past injury and her mindful approach to public perception exemplify the deeper narratives that often unfold on the show. Viewers will witness raw emotion, triumphs, and struggles as these stars navigate the intense training schedule and the pressure of live performance. The blend of celebrity spectacle and genuine human endeavor makes DWTS a consistently engaging program, showcasing the incredible transformations that happen both on and off the dance floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Dancing with the Stars Season 34 premiere, and where can I watch it?
Dancing with the Stars Season 34 is set to premiere on Monday, September 16, 2024. Viewers have multiple options to tune in: the show will broadcast live on ABC and will also be available for simultaneous streaming on Disney+. For those who miss the live broadcast, full episodes will be available to stream the next day on Hulu, ensuring you can catch all the celebrity dance action at your convenience.
What is Hilaria Baldwin’s dance background, and what challenges might she face on DWTS?
Hilaria Baldwin possesses a significant dance background, having been a ballroom dancer since childhood and even competing with New York University’s ballroom team. However, she faces several unique challenges on DWTS. A broken hip 16 years ago forced her to stop dancing professionally, making this a return to intense physical activity after a long hiatus. She anticipates difficulty with Latin-heavy dance styles, as her primary training focused on ballroom. Additionally, managing her family’s relocation to Los Angeles with seven children for the competition adds a personal layer of complexity to her demanding training schedule.
Who are some of the other key celebrity contestants joining DWTS Season 34?
The DWTS Season 34 cast features a vibrant mix of celebrities from various backgrounds. Key contestants include ’90s icons Danielle Fishel (“Boy Meets World”) and Elaine Hendrix (“Parent Trap”), Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles, NBA All-Star Baron Davis, and musician Corey Feldman. Other notable participants are reality TV personality Dylan Efron (Zac Efron’s brother), Pentatonix singer Scott Hoying, Fifth Harmony’s Lauren Jauregui, and comedian Andy Richter. These stars join previously announced contestants like Alix Earle and Robert Irwin, ensuring a diverse and entertaining competition.
Get Ready for the Dance Battle of the Season!
The DWTS Season 34 cast is officially locked in, promising an unforgettable journey of dance, emotion, and triumph. From the personal comeback story of Hilaria Baldwin to the nostalgic charm of ’90s favorites and the raw talent of athletes and musicians, this season has something for everyone. Mark your calendars for September 16 and prepare to be entertained as these stars step out of their comfort zones and into the spotlight, all in pursuit of that glittering Mirrorball Trophy. Don’t miss a single beat!
