“Dancing with the Stars” returned for its milestone 20th year as Season 34 premiered on Tuesday, September 16, and it delivered everything fans hoped for—glamour, drama, and unforgettable performances. The opening night featured new celebrities, new dancers, and a surprising scoring mishap that had viewers buzzing.
A Star-Studded Start to Season 34
The night opened with a dazzling group performance choreographed by Ray Leeper to Whitney Myer’s “Kill the Lights.” This fiery routine set the tone for the entire evening. Following the opening number, the show introduced its brand-new troupe, who lit up the stage with a performance of Tate McRae’s “Just Keep Watching.”
This year’s troupe includes Carter Williams, Onye Stevenson, Jaxon Willard, and Hailey Bills—who happens to be the cousin of pro dancer Jenna Johnson. The fresh talent brought an exciting energy to the ballroom, promising a season full of new dynamics and creativity.
Hosts and Judges Bring Familiar Faces
Returning hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough guided the show with their trademark charisma, while judges Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough provided their sharp critiques and praise. Unfortunately, long-time judge Carrie Ann Inaba had to sit out the premiere due to illness. Her absence was felt, but the energy in the room remained electric.
Record-Breaking Viewer Engagement
Midway through the episode. Ribeiro announced that the Season 34 premiere had already surpassed the total number of voters from last season’s premiere. By the end of the night, he revealed that the number of votes had actually doubled compared to Season 33. Showing just how invested fans are in this year’s cast and competition.
Robert Irwin Delivers a Historic First Dance
The final dance of the night came from Robert Irwin and his partner Witney Carson—and it left the ballroom in awe. Judge Derek Hough even declared it the best Week One dance he’s ever seen.
This praise carried extra meaning since Hough had previously won the mirrorball trophy with Robert’s sister, Bindi Irwin, back in 2015. The moment felt like a full-circle milestone for the Irwin family, and the crowd erupted in cheers as the duo ended their performance.
A Scoring Mishap Creates a Tie at the Top
Robert Irwin and Witney Carson received a combined score of 15, tying them for first place with Whitney Leavitt. However, the tie came after an unusual scoring error.
While judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli appeared to hold up “7” paddles for Leavitt. It was later revealed that Tonioli had locked in an “8” digitally, bumping her total from 14 to 15.
The mix-up didn’t dampen the excitement—if anything, it added an unexpected twist to an already thrilling premiere.
What Happens Next on DWTS Season 34
Although there was no elimination during the first episode, the competition is about to get serious.
Votes from this week will be combined with Week 2 scores, and at the end of next week, two couples will face a double elimination.
With record-breaking fan engagement, standout performances, and even some behind-the-scenes drama, Season 34 is off to a show-stopping start. Viewers can expect more surprises, emotional routines, and fierce competition as the journey to the mirrorball trophy continues.