7 Shocking Secrets And Controversies From Dancing With The Stars Season 34 And The Explosive Season 35 Rumors
The landscape of America's favorite ballroom competition, Dancing with the Stars (DWTS), has never been more dramatic, especially as we wrap up the events of Season 34 and look toward the explosive rumors of the next installment. As of this week, December 23, 2025, the dust has settled on a season that delivered stunning performances, but the real buzz is about the highly controversial celebrity cast list being leaked for the upcoming Season 35, promising one of the most talked-about lineups in the show’s history. From unexpected winners to scandalous casting choices, the show continues to dominate reality TV, proving that the quest for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy is as compelling as the drama happening off the dance floor.
The latest cycle, Season 34, concluded with a finale that saw a fan-favorite take the crown, but the show is currently making headlines for the sheer audacity of its rumored cast for the next season. The producers seem determined to push the boundaries of what constitutes a "star," leading to intense debate among fans and former professional dancers. This deep dive uncovers the biggest surprises from the recent season and the shocking celebrity names attached to the next one, providing the freshest, most unique insights into the world of DWTS.
Dancing with the Stars Season 34: The Shocking Finale and Full Cast Breakdown
Season 34 of the long-running ballroom competition proved to be a ratings hit, culminating in a spectacular finale that saw one of the youngest and most beloved competitors take home the prize. The season was characterized by high-scoring routines, a few shocking eliminations, and the continued high-energy hosting of Julianne Hough and her co-hosts. The competition was fierce, but the final results left no doubt about the audience's favorite.
The Season 34 Winner and Finalists
The 2024–2025 season concluded with conservationist and television personality Robert Irwin and his professional partner, Witney Carson, securing the Mirrorball Trophy. Their journey was marked by consistent high scores and a powerful emotional connection with the audience, particularly their unforgettable Finale Freestyle dance. The final results were incredibly close, with the runner-up spot going to social media sensation Alix Earle, who was paired with veteran pro Val Chmerkovskiy. The competition highlighted the evolving nature of celebrity, with social media figures proving they have the reach to compete against traditional entertainers.
Notable Celebrity Cast Members and Early Exits
The season featured a diverse array of stars from different backgrounds. The celebrity cast included several notable names whose journeys were cut short. Former NBA star Baron Davis, paired with Britt Stewart, was one of the early eliminations. Another surprising early exit was actor Corey Feldman, who danced with Jenna Johnson. Fitness personality Hilaria Baldwin and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles also competed, adding to the mix of athletes and personalities. These early exits often spark discussions about the fairness of the voting controversies, a perennial issue that plagues the show.
The Explosive Rumored Cast for the Next Season (Season 35)
The true source of current DWTS buzz is the leaked and rumored celebrity cast for the next season (likely Season 35, following the recent Season 34). These names are not officially confirmed, but the sheer controversy surrounding some of the potential contestants has already generated massive public interest and debate. The producers appear to be leaning into casting polarizing figures, a strategy that has previously led to some of the show's biggest scandals.
The Most Controversial Names Leaked
The list for the upcoming season is arguably one of the most shocking in the show's history, featuring individuals known more for their legal troubles or public scandals than their entertainment careers. The most talked-about potential contestants include:
- Anna Delvey (Sorokin): The convicted fraudster whose story captivated the world. Her rumored casting has prompted fierce backlash, with many questioning the ethics of giving a platform to a convicted criminal.
- Phaedra Parks: The reality TV star known for her dramatic exits and controversies on other major franchises.
- Joey Graziadei: A popular figure from the Bachelor franchise, whose inclusion follows a long tradition of reality TV stars joining the competition.
- Eric Roberts: The veteran actor and brother of Julia Roberts, whose Hollywood pedigree adds a touch of classic celebrity to the mix.
Other rumored celebrities include Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, rugby player Ilona Maher, and former NFL wide receiver Danny Amendola, ensuring a blend of athletes and reality TV personalities.
DWTS Scandals: The History of Controversial Casting and Dance Experience
The show has a long history of generating controversy, often stemming from two main issues: the casting of morally polarizing figures and the inclusion of celebrities with extensive prior dance experience. These behind-the-scenes feuds and public backlashes are what keep the show in the headlines year after year.
The 'Ringer' Controversy: Dance Experience Backlash
A recurring complaint from the audience and traditionalists is the casting of "ringers"—celebrities who already have professional or extensive dance training. This was a major point of contention in past seasons with stars like Charli D'Amelio, a TikTok star with significant dance background, whose participation was seen by many as contradicting the show's premise of teaching non-dancers. Critics argue that this practice makes the ballroom competition unfair, giving them a massive advantage over true novices.
The Most Polarizing Celebrities to Ever Compete
The rumored inclusion of Anna Delvey is not the first time DWTS has courted controversy with its celebrity choices. The show has a track record of casting figures who have been at the center of national scandals, seemingly prioritizing clickbait over conventional celebrity status. Past examples include:
- Olivia Jade Giannulli: Who competed after her involvement in the college admissions scandal.
- Carole Baskin: The controversial figure from Tiger King.
- Sean Spicer: The former White House Press Secretary whose casting sparked a political firestorm.
- Ryan Lochte: The Olympic swimmer who faced controversy over a fabricated robbery story.
These casting decisions highlight a deliberate strategy by the producers to generate buzz and media coverage, ensuring that the show remains a topic of conversation far beyond the weekly performances.
The Future of the Ballroom: What to Expect from the Pro Dancers and Format
Beyond the celebrity cast, the professional dancers (Pro Dancers) are the heart of the show. The upcoming season is expected to feature a mix of returning veterans and potentially a new face, as suggested by some rumors. The format itself, which moved to Disney+ for a period before its most recent broadcast, continues to evolve, keeping the production fresh and accessible to a wider audience.
The show’s success hinges on the chemistry between the celebrity cast and their professional partners, who must navigate intense training, emotional vulnerability, and the pressure of live television. The Mirrorball Trophy remains the ultimate prize, but the real victory for many contestants is the personal growth and the mastery of complex dance styles like the Cha-Cha, Quickstep, and Viennese Waltz.
As we anticipate the official announcement for the next season's lineup, the rumors surrounding figures like Anna Delvey and Phaedra Parks ensure that the conversation around Dancing with the Stars will be loud, dramatic, and utterly unmissable. The show is no longer just a dance competition; it is a cultural barometer for celebrity, controversy, and the enduring power of reality television.
Detail Author:
- Name : Christ Borer
- Username : shayna.boyle
- Email : batz.hosea@hotmail.com
- Birthdate : 2004-07-02
- Address : 402 Williamson Radial North Derekland, MD 97960-5110
- Phone : (605) 435-4577
- Company : Ledner-Mosciski
- Job : Tree Trimmer
- Bio : Reiciendis perferendis harum voluptatem corrupti quis et quidem in. Distinctio voluptas eos dolore unde eos sed.
Socials
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/brandi7168
- username : brandi7168
- bio : Rerum voluptatem eveniet impedit architecto sequi quam alias quo. Placeat molestiae iusto id assumenda dicta. Rem et et harum magni doloribus enim.
- followers : 1429
- following : 1319
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/brandi_id
- username : brandi_id
- bio : Asperiores necessitatibus vel repudiandae beatae. Qui voluptate deleniti qui quia modi beatae vero.
- followers : 4859
- following : 2214
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@brandiorn
- username : brandiorn
- bio : Aut odio et beatae dolor dicta natus. Nam ut repudiandae at ut blanditiis.
- followers : 3363
- following : 1775
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/born
- username : born
- bio : Est repellendus non velit id quidem quia.
- followers : 4184
- following : 791
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/brandi.orn
- username : brandi.orn
- bio : Qui labore et neque consequatur laborum aut corrupti.
- followers : 4752
- following : 304
