The Ballroom Beckons: Why 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 35 is More Than Just Glitter and Gossip
There’s something undeniably captivating about Dancing With the Stars. It’s not just the sequins, the drama, or the occasional wardrobe malfunction—though those certainly don’t hurt. What makes this show a cultural phenomenon, especially as it approaches its 35th season, is its ability to transform celebrities into relatable figures, all while pushing them to their physical and emotional limits. But this season, there’s a twist: the cast feels like a microcosm of modern fame itself. From reality TV royalty to social media sensations, Season 35 is shaping up to be a fascinating study in how we define stardom today.
The Reality TV Pipeline: From Scandals to Sequins
One thing that immediately stands out is the show’s growing reliance on reality TV stars. Take Ciara Miller, for example. Her casting feels almost too timely. Fresh off the Bravo scandal that sent the Bravosphere into a tailspin, Miller is stepping into the ballroom at a moment when her name is on everyone’s lips. Personally, I think this is a genius move by the producers. It’s not just about leveraging her current relevance; it’s about tapping into the emotional arc of her story. Audiences love a redemption narrative, and Miller’s journey from scandal to sequins could be the season’s most compelling storyline.
What many people don’t realize is how this trend reflects a broader shift in celebrity culture. Reality stars are no longer just one-season wonders; they’re building empires. Look at Ariana Madix, whose post-scandal career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. Miller seems to be following in her footsteps, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this season becomes a launching pad for her own brand deals or hosting gigs. If you take a step back and think about it, Dancing With the Stars has become a rite of passage for reality stars looking to legitimize their fame.
The Social Media Factor: When TikTok Meets Tango
Then there’s Jackson Olson, the Savannah Bananas star with millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram. His casting is part of a larger trend that’s been brewing for years: the rise of the social media celebrity. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it blurs the line between athlete, influencer, and entertainer. Olson isn’t just a baseball player; he’s a content creator who knows how to engage an audience. In my opinion, this is where the show’s future lies. Traditional celebrities are no longer the only draw—audiences want personalities they already feel connected to.
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean to be a ‘star’ in 2026? Is it about talent, charisma, or simply the ability to go viral? Olson’s presence suggests that the answer is a mix of all three. And let’s not forget the strategic brilliance here. By casting someone like Olson, the show isn’t just appealing to his massive following; it’s also ensuring that his every move will be amplified across social media. It’s a win-win, and I’m here for it.
The Underdog Appeal: When Persistence Pays Off
Maura Higgins’ journey to the ballroom is a story of persistence and timing. After her viral moment on The Traitors, she made no secret of her desire to join Dancing With the Stars. What this really suggests is that sometimes, wanting something badly enough can make it happen. But it’s not just about ambition; it’s about understanding your moment. Higgins is having hers, and the show is smart to capitalize on it.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how her casting reflects a shift in the show’s approach to diversity. Higgins brings a global perspective, having started her career in the U.K. before crossing over to the U.S. This isn’t just about adding an international flavor; it’s about acknowledging that fame is no longer confined to one country or platform. From my perspective, this is a smart move in an increasingly globalized entertainment landscape.
The Wild Card: When Comedy Meets Choreography
Guillermo Rodriguez, Jimmy Kimmel’s longtime sidekick, is the wild card of the season. What makes his casting so intriguing is the unpredictability factor. Will he bring his comedic timing to the dance floor? Will he use his salsa brand as inspiration for a routine? Personally, I think he’s the dark horse of the season. His 23-year tenure on Jimmy Kimmel Live! has given him a likability that’s hard to ignore, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he becomes a fan favorite.
What many people don’t realize is how much Dancing With the Stars thrives on these unexpected pairings. It’s not just about who can dance; it’s about who can tell a story. Rodriguez has a story—one of loyalty, hard work, and now, reinvention. If he can translate that into his performances, he could be the season’s biggest surprise.
The Bigger Picture: What Season 35 Says About Us
If you take a step back and think about it, this cast is a reflection of our cultural obsessions. We’re drawn to scandal, inspired by persistence, and fascinated by the intersection of talent and technology. Dancing With the Stars isn’t just a show; it’s a mirror. It shows us what we value, who we root for, and how we define success.
In my opinion, this season is more than just a competition—it’s a commentary on the state of fame in 2026. It’s about the reality stars who rise from the ashes, the social media sensations who redefine what it means to be an athlete, and the underdogs who prove that sometimes, all you need is a little glitter and a lot of grit.
So, as we gear up for Season 35, I’ll be watching not just for the dances, but for the stories they tell. Because in the end, isn’t that what makes this show so irresistible? It’s not about the steps—it’s about the journey. And this season, the journey promises to be more fascinating than ever.
