Back to the ballroom for season 30

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Taylor Schmitz

The first episode of “Dancing with the Stars” premiered in 2005 and has built on its popularity ever since.

Taylor Schmitz, Entertainment Editor

In today’s entertainment world it seems that shows are getting canceled as soon as they premiere. It is rare to see those that maintain long-term success especially after 15 years of being on air. However, this is exactly the case for ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” which returns on Sept. 20, 2021 for its 30th season.

This season of the hit dancing competition show will feature 15 celebrities ranging from famous actors such as Cristine Chiu, Martin Kove and Melora Hardin to singers like Jimmie Allen. Some of the most anticipated stars fans are looking forward to seeing perform are Olympic gymnast, Suni Lee; former Bachelor, Matt James; Spice Girl, Melanie C; and social media influencer and former “Dance Moms” alum, Jojo Siwa. To see the full cast list go to the official Dancing with the Stars page.

As for the rest of the crew, the milestone season will again have former model and TV personality, Tyra Banks as host. Not only are viewers excited to hear her narrations of the show, but also watch her over-the-top outfits unfold throughout the season. Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough (who was partnered up with stars as a professional dancer for 17 seasons) will also return this season as judges. Fans are thrilled to hear that Len Goodman will also be joining them after taking a year off due to COVID-19.

This fan-favorite show will also include many new elements, one being that Siwa will be part of the first same-sex dancing couple of the series. 

“I think it’s cool, I think it breaks a wall that’s never been done before,” said Siwa during a Television Critics Association panel. “I think it’s really special that I get to share with the world that you can love who you love, but now you can dance with who you want to dance with.”

Another change this season is that two pro dancers have left the show: two-time champion Peta Murgatroyd and Keo Motsepe. While it is unclear why Murgatroyd will not be returning, Motesepe spoke on why fans will not be seeing him this season.

“While it’s disappointing to not be back for season 30, I’ve been honored to be on the last nine seasons of the show and look forward to returning in the future,” said Motsepe. “I also have some exciting opportunities in the works, so don’t worry, you’ll be seeing me again soon enough.”

With big changes in the work and a star-studded cast, “Dancing with the Stars” devotees are excited to see what season 30 will have in store. Tune in every Monday night at 7 p.m. on ABC to see it play out.