How To Get On Dancing With The Stars: Your Ultimate Guide To Auditioning And Streaming
Dreaming of gliding across the ballroom under the bright lights of Dancing with the Stars? Wondering how ordinary people become celebrities turned dancers? For two decades, this hit series has captivated audiences with its dazzling routines, celebrity pairings, and dramatic eliminations. Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, and judged by legends like Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough, DWTS is more than a dance competition—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether you’re a fan eager to stream the latest episodes or an aspiring dancer hoping to lace up your shoes on the show, this guide covers everything from watching options to audition tips. Let’s dive into the glittering world of DWTS.
The Magic of Dancing with the Stars: Hosts, Judges, and Format
At its heart, Dancing with the Stars is a simple yet irresistible premise: pair celebrities with professional ballroom dancers and have them compete in choreographed routines judged by a panel of experts. Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, the show has evolved while keeping its core excitement intact. Alfonso, known for his iconic role as Carlton Banks in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, brings charisma and dance prowess, while Julianne, a former DWTS pro and Emmy-winning choreographer, adds industry insight and warmth.
The judging panel—Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough—is a trio of ballroom royalty. Carrie Ann, an original judge since Season 1, is renowned for her sharp eye and constructive critiques. Bruno, the fiery Italian choreographer, delivers memorable commentary with his signature accent. Derek, a former pro dancer with multiple mirrorball trophies, joined as a judge in Season 23 and brings a competitor’s perspective. Together, they score each performance, while viewer votes determine which couples stay or go.
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Below is a quick reference to the key faces of DWTS:
| Name | Role on DWTS | Background | Years on DWTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alfonso Ribeiro | Co-Host | Actor, director, dancer; famous for "The Carlton" dance | 2022–present |
| Julianne Hough | Co-Host | Professional dancer, choreographer, actress; former DWTS pro | 2022–present |
| Carrie Ann Inaba | Judge | Dancer, choreographer, TV personality; original judge | Since Season 1 (2005) |
| Bruno Tonioli | Judge | Italian choreographer, dancer; known for flamboyant style | Since Season 1 (2005) |
| Derek Hough | Judge | Professional dancer, choreographer, actor; 6-time DWTS champion | Since Season 23 (2016) |
Each season features themed weeks—from Disney to horror movies—pushing celebrities out of their comfort zones. The show’s blend of athleticism, artistry, and celebrity drama has made it a staple of ABC’s lineup, consistently breaking viewer records and sparking water-cooler conversations.
How to Watch Dancing with the Stars: Your Complete Streaming Guide
With the rise of cord-cutting, many fans ask: “How can I stream DWTS without cable?” The good news is that there are several straightforward options, though the show remains exclusive to ABC and its affiliated platforms.
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Dancing with the Stars airs live on ABC every week during its season. If you have a traditional cable or antenna, you can watch it live. For cord-cutters, the primary method is through Hulu + Live TV, which includes ABC in its channel lineup. This service lets you stream live TV and on-demand content, including full episodes shortly after they air. Hulu’s partnership with ABC makes it the go-to streaming option for DWTS.
Other live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV also carry ABC, providing alternatives for cord-cutters. However, it’s important to note that Dancing with the Starsis not available on subscription-only services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Max. These platforms focus on on-demand libraries and do not offer live network broadcasts. For binge-watching past seasons, you can sometimes find them on Hulu’s on-demand section or purchase episodes on digital stores like iTunes and Amazon Video.
For the latest updates on where to watch, Decider is a reliable resource. They provide timely news, streaming guides, and episode recaps. Whether you’re looking for premiere dates or cancellation rumors, sites like Decider keep you informed.
Quick Streaming Checklist:
- ✅ Live Broadcast: ABC (cable/antenna)
- ✅ Live Streaming: Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV
- ❌ On-Demand Only: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Max
- 📱 Mobile Apps: ABC app (with TV provider login)
- 🗞️ News & Updates: Decider, official DWTS social media
Season 34 and the Road Ahead: Celebrating 20 Years of DWTS
Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars marked the show’s 20th anniversary, a milestone celebrated with special performances and nostalgic moments. The season kicked off with a new cohort of celebrities—from athletes to actors—all vying for the mirrorball trophy. Hosts Alfonso and Julianne guided viewers through themed nights, including a “Best of” episode where the six remaining couples performed routines nodding to stellar performances from the past.
The season 34 finale was a spectacular event, with the hit ABC competition consistently breaking records and drawing more viewer votes each week. The show’s enduring popularity proves its ability to reinvent itself while honoring its roots. For fans who missed it, full episodes are available on Hulu + Live TV and the ABC app.
Looking back, Season 33 in 2024 was also underway with high energy, featuring eliminations that kept audiences on edge. Each week, fan-favorite pairs faced the judges’ scores and public votes, with one couple leaving the dance floor every Tuesday. The final results for Dancing with the Stars 2025 (Season 34) revealed the winning duo, and fans are already curious: when does the next season of DWTS air? Typically, new seasons premiere in the fall, so expect Season 35 to launch around September 2025, barring any scheduling changes.
The show’s longevity is no accident. Dancing with the Stars has averaged over 8 million viewers per episode in recent seasons, with social media engagement skyrocketing during live nights. Its mix of talent, drama, and audience participation makes it a ratings powerhouse for ABC.
Dancing Beyond the Screen: Live Tours and Charity Events
While the TV show glitters on screen, Dancing with the Stars extends its magic through live tours and community events. One standout is “Dancing with the Williamsburg Stars,” an exciting local spin-off where prominent Williamsburg residents are paired with professional dance partners. This live event usually sells out quickly, as locals cheer on their favorites in a format mirroring the TV series.
But it’s more than just entertainment—for 17 years, “Dancing with the Williamsburg Stars” has raised money for two exceptional local charities: Literacy for Life and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Williamsburg. These organizations empower youth and promote education, making the event a force for good. Tickets are highly sought after, so fans grab them early.
Additionally, the official DWTS live tour brings fan favorites from the show to cities across the country. For example, pros and alums like Andy Richter and Elaine Hendrix performed at the Schottenstein Center in March, heating up the stage with crowd-pleasing routines. These tours offer a chance to see the dancers up close and experience the energy of DWTS live.
Behind the Scenes: Pros, Celebrities, and On-Tour Challenges
The world of DWTS isn’t always smooth sailing. Dancing with the Stars pro Val Chmerkovskiy faced a scary moment while traveling in Illinois as part of the 2026 live tour. He was hospitalized in Peoria, Ill., after a medical emergency, sharing an Instagram video from his hospital bed to update fans. The incident highlighted the physical toll of constant touring and rehearsals.
On the celebrity side, Kim and Khloé Kardashian recalled how Kim would try to get votes while participating on Dancing with the Stars. During her season, Kim leveraged her massive social media following and public appearances to rally support, showcasing the strategic side of the competition. Such anecdotes reveal how celebrities navigate the pressure of weekly eliminations.
Behind the glitter, pros like Val endure grueling schedules. The live tour involves traveling across states, performing multiple shows weekly, and maintaining peak physical condition. Val’s hospitalization served as a reminder of the show’s demanding nature, even for seasoned professionals.
Your Turn in the Spotlight: How to Get on Dancing with the Stars
Now, the big question: how to get on Dancing with the Stars? Whether you dream of being a celebrity contestant or a professional dancer, the path requires preparation, persistence, and a bit of luck.
For Celebrities: Getting Invited or Applying
Most celebrity contestants are approached by producers based on their public profile, relevance, and story. However, there are occasional open casting calls for celebrities. To increase your chances:
- Build a compelling narrative: Producers look for celebrities with inspiring stories, resilience, or a connection to dance (e.g., athletes, musicians).
- Maintain a strong public image: Active social media presence and positive media coverage help.
- Express interest publicly: Sometimes, celebrities tweet or post about wanting to join, catching producers’ attention.
- Submit through official channels: Check ABC’s casting website for any open calls or submission portals.
For Professional Dancers: Auditioning for the Pro Team
If you’re a trained ballroom dancer, becoming a DWTS pro is a competitive process. The show holds annual auditions for new pros, often in Los Angeles or New York. Steps to pursue:
- Polish your credentials: Have a strong competition background, certifications (e.g., from the National Dance Council of America), and teaching experience.
- Prepare a standout audition video: Showcase your technique, choreography skills, and personality. Include partner work if possible.
- Attend open calls: Network with current pros and judges; sometimes, recommendations lead to opportunities.
- Demonstrate adaptability: DWTS requires learning various styles quickly—from cha-cha to contemporary.
- Be ready for a grueling schedule: Pros rehearse 8+ hours daily during the season and tour extensively.
General Tips for Aspiring Contestants
- Start dancing now: Even if you’re not a pro, taking ballroom lessons builds foundational skills.
- Develop your “story”: The show loves underdog tales or personal journeys. Be prepared to share yours.
- Stay fit and injury-free: Physical endurance is crucial for the 10-week season.
- Follow official DWTS social media: Announcements about casting calls are often posted there.
Remember, casting is selective—thousands apply for few spots. But with passion and preparation, you can position yourself for a shot at the mirrorball trophy.
Conclusion: Your Journey Starts Here
Dancing with the Stars continues to shine after 20 years, blending entertainment, charity, and raw human effort. Whether you’re streaming Season 34 on Hulu + Live TV, attending a local “Williamsburg Stars” event, or dreaming of dancing under those bright lights, the show offers something for everyone. It’s a testament to the power of dance to unite, inspire, and entertain.
So, if you’ve ever asked, “How do I get on Dancing with the Stars?”—start dancing, build your story, and keep an eye on official casting announcements. And if you’re just a fan, know that the DWTS universe is vast: from live tours to charity events, there are countless ways to engage. Grab your remote, your dancing shoes, or your ticket, and join the celebration. The ballroom awaits.
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