Dancing with the Stars Season 34: A Comprehensive Guide to Voting and Contestants
The much-anticipated Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars is set to premiere on September 16, 2025, at 8 PM ET, airing on both ABC and Disney+. This season promises to be an exciting blend of talent and entertainment, featuring a diverse cast of 14 celebrities. Hosted by the charismatic duo of Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, the show will once again showcase the artistry of dance, judged by the experienced panel of Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli.
A Star-Studded Cast
This season’s lineup includes a mix of familiar faces and rising stars. Notable participants include actress Jen Affleck, wellness advocate Hilaria Baldwin, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, social media influencer Alix Earle, actor Corey Feldman, and wildlife enthusiast Robert Irwin. Each celebrity will be paired with professional dancers, such as Jenna Johnson and Jan Ravnik, to compete for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
The show’s format remains consistent, with contestants performing various dance styles each week. The combination of judges’ scores and viewer votes will determine who stays and who goes, making audience participation crucial in the early weeks of the competition.
How to Vote: A Step-by-Step Guide
Voting is a vital component of Dancing with the Stars, especially in the first two weeks when viewer input directly influences eliminations. Here’s how fans can cast their votes:
Voting Window
Voting opens during the live broadcast and closes shortly after the final competitive dance, typically during the last commercial break. U.S. residents aged 18 and older, including those in territories like Puerto Rico, can vote up to 10 times per voting method, allowing for a maximum of 20 votes per couple.
Online Voting
To vote online, viewers can visit dwtsvote.abc.com during the show. The platform allows users to redistribute their votes until the voting window closes, making it easy to support their favorite contestants. While no account is necessary, logging in can streamline the voting process.
SMS Text Voting
For those in U.S. territories, SMS text voting is also available. Participants can text the name of their chosen celebrity to 21523, with each text counting as one vote. Standard messaging rates apply.
Streaming Options
Episodes will be available for streaming on Hulu the day after they air. International viewers, including those in Canada, may have different voting options, but the live voting mechanism is primarily focused on U.S. audiences.
Contestant Pairings
The excitement of Dancing with the Stars is amplified by the unique pairings of celebrities and professional dancers. This season’s pairings include:
- Jen Affleck with Jan Ravnik
- Hilaria Baldwin with Gleb Savchenko
- Jordan Chiles with Ezra Sosa
- Alix Earle with Brandon Armstrong
- Corey Feldman with Sasha Farber
- Robert Irwin with Rylee Arnold
These pairings not only highlight the diverse backgrounds of the contestants but also set the stage for intriguing dynamics and performances throughout the season.
Key Voting FAQs
When Does Voting Close?
Voting will close during the final commercial break after all dances have been performed. It is important to note that there will be no voting available during replays or streaming of the episodes.
Can I Vote Multiple Times?
Yes, viewers can cast up to 10 votes per method for each episode. Additionally, online votes can be changed until the voting window ends, allowing fans to adjust their support as the competition unfolds.
How Are Winners Decided?
The winners are determined by a combination of judges’ scores and viewer votes. Each week, the couple with the lowest combined total will be eliminated, adding an element of suspense to the competition.
Where to Watch?
Fans can catch the live broadcast on ABC, with a simulcast available on Disney+. For those who miss the live airing, episodes will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day. International viewers can check local broadcasters or streaming services for availability.
The Legacy of Dancing with the Stars
Since its debut in 2005, Dancing with the Stars has become a cultural phenomenon, blending the worlds of dance and celebrity in a way that captivates audiences. The show has not only launched the careers of many professional dancers but has also provided a platform for celebrities to showcase their talents beyond their usual realms.
The format of combining viewer votes with judges’ scores has been a hallmark of the show, fostering a sense of community among fans who rally behind their favorite contestants. This interactive element has contributed to the show’s longevity and popularity, making it a staple of American television.
Conclusion
As Dancing with the Stars gears up for its 34th season, fans are eager to see how the new cast will perform and which couples will capture the hearts of viewers. With a mix of talent, charisma, and the thrill of competition, this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments. As the premiere date approaches, fans should prepare to engage in the voting process, ensuring their favorite stars have a chance to shine on the dance floor.
