Dancing with the Stars Season 34: Week 9 Highlights and Viewing Guide
As we dive into Week 9 of Dancing with the Stars Season 34, the excitement is palpable! This season has brought together a dynamic cast of celebrities from various fields, all vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or tuning in for the first time, this season promises entertainment and drama.
Among the standout contestants this year are conservationist Robert Irwin, reality star Dylan Efron, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, and Whitney Leavitt from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. Each week, these celebrities partner with professional dancers to showcase their skills in a new dance style, competing for viewer votes and the judges’ scores.
Hosts and Judges
The show is hosted by the charismatic duo Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, while the judging panel features seasoned professionals Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli. Their feedback and critiques add depth to the competition, keeping both contestants and viewers engaged.
Tonight’s Episode
Tonight’s episode, themed “20th Birthday Party,” celebrates the show’s two-decade legacy. Expect a special opening number choreographed by Derek Hough and a new competition format featuring a “dance relay” where contestants will dance alongside former Mirrorball champions instead of their regular partners. Notably, Flavor Flav will join as a guest judge, adding a unique twist to the judging panel. The episode airs live at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and streams simultaneously on Disney+.
How to Watch
For those looking to catch up, episodes 1-7 of Season 34 are available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+. If you prefer to watch live, you can do so on ABC or stream it on Disney+. For cord-cutters, the Disney+ and Hulu bundle provides access to DWTS episodes as well as a wealth of other content, including popular shows and movies.
Last Week’s Elimination
Last week, Danielle Fishel and her partner Pasha Pashkov faced elimination after their contemporary dance to Aerosmith’s “Dream On.” Despite receiving positive feedback from the judges, they fell short in the fan vote, leading to their exit. Andy Richter and Emma Slater narrowly escaped the bottom two, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the competition.
Meet the Contestants
The diverse cast this season includes influencers, actors, and athletes, each bringing their unique flair to the dance floor. Here’s a quick look at some of the contestants:
- Alix Earle (Influencer) - partnered with Val Chmerkovskiy
- Baron Davis (Former NBA Player) - partnered with Britt Stewart
- Corey Feldman (Actor) - partnered with Jenna Johnson
- Jordan Chiles (Olympic Gymnast) - partnered with Ezra Sosa
- Robert Irwin (Conservationist) - partnered with Witney Carson
With such a rich lineup and exciting themes, Dancing with the Stars continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite celebrity or enjoying the artistry of dance, this season is a must-watch! Tune in tonight to see who will shine and who might be heading home next.