Full Breakdown
Drama Unfolds in Season 34 of *Dancing with the Stars*
9/17/2025, 11:59:40 AM
Corey Feldman's Absence Raises Concerns
The premiere of Season 34 of *Dancing with the Stars* on September 16, 2025, was marked by notable drama surrounding celebrity contestant Corey Feldman. His partner, Jenna Johnson, revealed on social media that she had not seen Feldman since the cast announcement on *Good Morning America* on September 3. Johnson expressed her anxiety about the situation, stating, “To be completely honest, I actually haven’t seen him since Good Morning America.” This absence raised concerns about their preparation for the competition, especially with the first live performance just a week away.
Despite Johnson's efforts to downplay the situation, the duo's reunion became a focal point for fans, who questioned Feldman's commitment to the show. Johnson later clarified that Feldman had prior work commitments and personal matters that kept him away, but the initial lack of communication led to speculation about his dedication to the competition.
Season Premiere Highlights
The season premiere featured 14 celebrity contestants, including Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, social media influencer Alix Earle, and wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin. The opening night showcased a variety of performances, with Robert Irwin and Whitney Leavitt tying for the highest score of 15 out of 20. In contrast, Feldman and Johnson ended up at the bottom of the leaderboard with a score of 9 out of 20 for their tango to Billy Joel's "It's Still Rock & Roll to Me."
The judges' panel, consisting of Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli, provided feedback on the performances, with Hough noting that Feldman needed to improve his technique. The absence of Carrie Ann Inaba due to illness meant that the scoring was out of 20 instead of the usual 30, adding an extra layer of complexity to the competition.
Behind-the-Scenes Tensions
Reports have surfaced indicating that the atmosphere behind the scenes of Season 34 has been tense. Insiders described the season as a "s**t show," citing a lack of commitment from some contestants, including Feldman. One source stated, “They chose a few stars – and I use that term loosely – who just don’t want to put in the work.” This sentiment reflects concerns among professional dancers who feel demoralized by their celebrity partners' lack of dedication.
Feldman's initial absence and the subsequent drama surrounding his participation have led to questions about his readiness for the competition. Johnson emphasized that communication between them remained consistent, and upon his return, Feldman expressed a willingness to learn and improve.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the concerns about Feldman's commitment, Johnson stated, “I am eagerly awaiting him getting back so we can get back into the studio to dance.” She later confirmed that they had resumed rehearsals and were focused on preparing for the upcoming performances.
What's Next for the Contestants
As the competition progresses, the stakes are high, with a double elimination scheduled for the following week. Contestants will need to impress both the judges and the audience to secure their place in the competition. The upcoming theme, "One Hit Wonders," promises to bring fresh challenges and opportunities for the celebrity dancers to showcase their growth.
With the season still in its early stages, the dynamics between contestants, their partners, and the judges will continue to evolve, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable competition ahead.
