Quick Read
- Alix Earle joins the cast of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 34.
- The new season premieres on September 16, 2025, on ABC and Disney+.
- The star-studded lineup includes athletes, actors, and social media influencers.
- Earle, a former competitive dancer, is partnered with Val Chmerkovskiy.
- Judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough return to the panel.
The much-anticipated 34th season of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” (DWTS) is set to premiere on September 16, 2025, bringing an eclectic mix of celebrities to the dance floor. Among the highlights of this year’s star-studded lineup is social media influencer Alix Earle, whose digital presence has made waves across platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Known for her charm and relatability, Earle joins a diverse cast that includes athletes, actors, and reality TV personalities.
Alix Earle and Her Journey to the Dance Floor
Alix Earle, a digital content creator and host of the “Hot Mess” podcast, has been a fan of “Dancing with the Stars” for years. During a 2024 interview with Elle, Earle revealed her passion for dance, stating, “I’m obsessed with DWTS.” A competitive dancer during her high school years, Earle is no stranger to the discipline and artistry required for ballroom dancing. Her excitement about joining the cast was palpable when she spoke to Good Morning America in May 2025: “I’m ready to challenge myself. I think it’s gonna be a lot of fun.”
Earle’s online influence has been so significant that it has often been referred to as the “Alix Earle effect,” with her product endorsements frequently going viral. Her presence on DWTS is expected to bring a younger audience to the show, further diversifying its viewership.
The Star-Studded Cast: A Mix of Talent and Personality
The 34th season of DWTS features a wide array of personalities, ranging from Olympic athletes to social media stars. Alongside Alix Earle, the cast includes Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, NBA All-Star Baron Davis, and Grammy-winning musician Scott Hoying of Pentatonix fame. Notable actors like Corey Feldman (“The Goonies”), Danielle Fishel (“Boy Meets World”), and Elaine Hendrix (“The Parent Trap”) also add a touch of Hollywood glamour to the lineup.
Reality TV stars Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” bring their fanbase to the competition, while wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, son of the late Steve Irwin, aims to inspire viewers with his conservation message. Irwin expressed his excitement in a statement to E! News, saying, “I’m ready to hit the ballroom. Let’s go, let’s do this. I don’t know how my dance moves are, but I’m gonna give it 110 percent.”
Returning hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough will guide the audience through the season, while judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough will provide expert critiques. The season promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with a mix of seasoned performers and fresh faces ready to compete for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
Behind the Scenes: Training and Challenges
As the celebrities prepare to take the stage, the physical and emotional challenges of ballroom dancing are becoming apparent. Hilaria Baldwin, another prominent contestant, has spoken openly about her journey back to dance after a 16-year hiatus. A former ballroom dancer, Baldwin admitted to USA Today, “My body is different now.” Despite these challenges, she is determined to embrace the opportunity as a fresh chapter for her family.
For Alix Earle, the transition from social media stardom to the dance floor comes with its own set of hurdles. Partnered with professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy, Earle faces the dual challenge of mastering intricate choreography and winning over the judges and audience alike. However, her charismatic personality and strong fan base could give her an edge in the competition.
Other contestants, like gymnast Jordan Chiles, bring athletic prowess to the stage but must adapt their skills to the unique demands of ballroom dance. Chiles, who has faced controversies in her gymnastics career, sees DWTS as an opportunity for personal growth and public redemption.
What to Expect This Season
Season 34 of DWTS is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic yet, with a cast that reflects a wide range of experiences and talents. From the grace and athleticism of Olympians to the storytelling abilities of actors and the relatability of social media influencers, this season has something for everyone. The competition officially kicks off on September 16, with episodes airing on ABC and Disney+ and streaming the next day on Hulu.
With the return of beloved hosts and judges, as well as an exciting mix of celebrity contestants, DWTS fans are in for a treat. Whether it’s Alix Earle’s “Hot Mess” charm, Robert Irwin’s heartfelt dedication to conservation, or Hilaria Baldwin’s inspiring comeback, there’s no shortage of compelling storylines to follow.
As the season unfolds, viewers can look forward to unforgettable performances, fierce competition, and plenty of surprises. Stay tuned to see who will take home the Mirrorball Trophy!