As anticipation builds for the 34th season of *Dancing With the Stars*, cohosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro showcased their moves in a lively performance. In an exclusive preview shared by *Us Weekly*, the duo danced to “Pump Up the Jam” by Technotronic, adding excitement to the lead-up to the show’s return on September 16, 2023.
Viewers are eager to learn which celebrities will compete for the coveted mirrorball trophy this season. So far, the network has confirmed that TikTok influencer Alix Earle and Robert Irwin, son of the late wildlife expert Steve Irwin, will be among the contestants. Additional cast members will be revealed on the September 3 episode of *Good Morning America*.
New Season, Familiar Faces
The judging panel will feature familiar names, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli, who are returning alongside Hough and Ribeiro as hosts. During a recent interview, Derek and Julianne hinted at the possibility of returning to the dance floor themselves. Julianne expressed her contentment in her current role, stating, “I love watching other people shine… I get to support and hopefully ask the right kind of questions.”
Derek playfully suggested that Julianne could take on an even bigger role in the future, saying, “Got the T-shirt. … The next thing she’s got to do on that show is, I don’t know, she could direct it or something.”
In a vibrant preview for the upcoming season, Derek promised that viewers could expect “a lot of tea” to be shared among contestants. He noted the heightened energy surrounding the show, stating, “I think there’s a lot of momentum… It’s already feeling bigger than it’s ever been.”
A Celebration of Dance and Community
Julianne also expressed her excitement about *Dancing With the Stars* remaining relevant as it enters its 20th year. She remarked, “It’s incredible that it’s never felt more relevant and in the zeitgeist of what’s happening in pop culture.” She emphasized the transformative nature of the show, describing it as “a transformation show masked in rhinestones and fringe and dancing.”
The new season of *Dancing With the Stars* will premiere on ABC and Disney+ at 8 p.m. ET on September 16, 2023, with new episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. As the countdown continues, fans are left eagerly anticipating the dance battles that await.
