The glitz and glamor of the dancing world is taking over people’s screens this fall. Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) is making its mark on national television for the 20th year, powerfully representing the dance community. From athletes and actors to TikTokers and comedians, every year brings something entirely different.
This season, these pairs make up the 14 new teams: Jennifer Affleck & Jan Ravnik, Hilaria Baldwin & Gleb Savchenko, Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa, Baron Davis & Britt Stewart, Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy, Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach, Corey Feldman & Jenna Johnson, Danielle Fishel & Pasha Pashkov, Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten, Scott Hoying & Rylee Arnold, Robert Irwin & Witney Carson, Lauren Jauregui & Brandon Armstrong, Whitney Leavitt & Mark Ballas, and Andy Richter & Emma Slater.
The show’s impressive legacy is shown through the many previous talents and victors, including the returning hosts, Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, two reigning champions of the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. The duo is guaranteed to bring joy to America’s screens with their witty comments and on-screen chemistry.
There are many aspects to DWTS, including intense dedication, competition, and an overall hunger to win. However, one of the main attractions of the show is the ability to watch everyone’s favorite stars. These celebrities usually have little to no dance experience, so DWTS offers them the chance to fall in love with ballroom dance. Not all the stars make it to the finale, but they sure do make it count.
Amidst each pair of revelations, there are certainly a few that have fans buzzing with excitement. Robert Irwin, an Australian wildlife conservationist, and his professional partner, Whitney Carson, have stood out in the star-studded lineup. His charisma and charm have won over the hearts of audiences.
Aside from this, he is best known for carrying on the legacy of his late father, Steve Irwin, a famous Australian zookeeper, environmentalist, wildlife conservationist, and host of the TV show Crocodile Hunter. In addition, he has big shoes to fill, with his sister, Bindi Irwin, being a past victor of Dancing With the Stars Season 21.
Sophomore Ella Hernandez says, “This season, I’m team Robert [Irwin] and Witney [Carson]. They just look so connected when they dance. I love it.”
There are more celebrities, such as TikTok influencer Alix Earle and Olympic Gymnast Jordan Chiles, who push the competition further. It will certainly be a challenge for just one star to come out on top, and that’s where the audience comes into play.
Sophomore Emma Estevez comments, “The team I’m cheering for is Alix [Earle] and Val [Chmerkovskiy]. I’ve watched Alix’s videos on TikTok for a while, and she’s also an influencer representing South Florida.”
The audience’s reviews and interactions at home help make the show what it is today. With many different thoughts and opinions on social media, voting is now in the viewers’ hands, determining who will rise to the top and claim victory this season on DWTS.
