Full Breakdown
Witney Carson Returns to “Dancing With the Stars” While Expecting Her Third Child
8/21/2026, 12:17:04 PM
Core Event
On Monday, August 17, professional dancer Witney Carson announced on *Good Morning America* that she is four months pregnant and will compete in Season 35 of *Dancing With the Stars* with Guillermo Rodriguez. This is the first time a *DWTS* pro will enter a season while knowingly pregnant.
Background & Context
Carson joined the *DWTS* troupe in 2013, became a professional partner in 2014, and has appeared in 15 seasons. She is a two-time Mirrorball champion (Season 19 with Alfonso Ribeiro and Season 34 with Robert Irwin). She previously disclosed a pregnancy during Season 31 (2022), but this is her first season starting while pregnant.
Timeline
- August 6 – *Usmagazine* reports Jackson Olson’s nervous-pre-performance comment.
- August 17 – Carson’s GMA interview reveals her pregnancy and partnership with Rodriguez.
- August 18 – Carson thanks fans on Instagram for support of her “third sweet baby.”
- September 2 – ABC will reveal the full Season 35 celebrity lineup.
- September 15–16 – Season 35 premieres with a two-night launch on ABC and Disney+.
Official Statements & Responses
Carson said she wants to “feel empowered” and hopes Rodriguez will be “right there beside me” as a supportive partner. Her husband Carson McAllister has been described as “an absolute champ” who allows her to rest during her first trimester. Fellow professionals—including Lindsay Arnold, Daniella Karagach, Peta Murgatroyd, and Julianne Hough—congratulated her on social media.
Data & Statistics
- Two Mirrorball trophies (Seasons 19 and 34).
- 15 seasons as a professional dancer on *DWTS*.
- Three children: sons Leo and Jet, and the upcoming third child announced in August.
- Carson is entering her second trimester at the season’s launch.
Why It Matters / Impact
Carson’s decision makes her the first professional dancer on the series to compete while pregnant, highlighting maternal representation in high-intensity performance settings and potentially influencing future casting decisions.
Verbatim Quote
- “I want to feel empowered. I want to see what my body can do. And hopefully Guillermo will be right there beside me and we can work as a team.” — Witney Carson
What’s Next
ABC will unveil the complete Season 35 roster on September 2. The two-night premiere is scheduled for September 15 and September 16 on ABC and Disney+, with Carson and Rodriguez slated to debut together in the opening week.
