Full Breakdown
Dancing with the Stars Season 34: One-Hit Wonders Night
9/23/2025, 1:03:28 PM
Overview of the Season and Upcoming Themes
"Dancing with the Stars" returned for its 34th season on September 16, 2025, celebrating the show's 20th anniversary. The season features 14 celebrity contestants paired with professional dancers, competing in themed dance routines. Each week will showcase a different theme, with the second episode, airing on September 23, focusing on "One-Hit Wonders Night." This theme will highlight songs from artists known for a single major hit, adding a nostalgic flair to the competition.
Contestants and Their Performances
During the premiere, no contestants were eliminated, setting the stage for a double elimination in the upcoming episode. Notable performances from the premiere included Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy, who danced to "Circus" by Britney Spears, and Lauren Jauregui with Brandon Armstrong, performing "Yes, And?" by Ariana Grande. Both couples received a score of 13 out of 20 from the judges. The highest score of the night was awarded to Robert Irwin and Whitney Carson, who scored 15 points for their jive to "Born to Be Wild" by Steppenwolf.
For "One-Hit Wonders Night," the contestants will perform to a variety of iconic songs. Earle and Chmerkovskiy will take on "Mambo No. 5" by Lou Bega, while other couples will perform routines to tracks like "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mix-A-Lot and "Take On Me" by a-ha.
Injuries and Challenges Faced by Contestants
Alix Earle has openly discussed the physical toll of the competition, revealing injuries sustained during rehearsals, including a bruised collarbone and a broken toenail. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to improving her performance, stating, “I’m going to work and get it done by next Tuesday.” Earle's dedication reflects the intense training regimen required for the show, which has significantly altered her daily routine.
Official Statements and Responses
Carrie Ann Inaba, a longtime judge, was absent from the premiere due to illness but is expected to return for the upcoming episode. She expressed her eagerness to rejoin the panel, stating, “I’m resting up and can’t wait to be back next week in good health.” The absence of Inaba during the premiere raised concerns about scoring consistency, as only judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli were present.
What's Next: Double Elimination and Viewer Engagement
The upcoming episode will conclude with a double elimination, as the judges' scores from the first two weeks will be combined with viewer votes to determine which two couples will be sent home. Fans can participate in the voting process through the show's official website and via SMS, ensuring their favorite couples have a chance to continue in the competition.
"Dancing with the Stars" airs live on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesday nights, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. As the season progresses, viewers can look forward to a mix of entertainment, nostalgia, and the unpredictability that has made the show a staple in reality television.
