‘Dancing With the Stars’ Turns 20—But Season 33 Could Be Its Last

Dancing with the Stars has been a glittering staple of ABC’s lineup since 2005. But as the beloved ballroom competition turns 20, a significant shake-up could be on the horizon. Could Season 33 mark the long-running series’ final dance?

‘Dancing With the Stars’ turns 20 this year

Dancing with the Stars made its dazzling debut on ABC on June 1, 2005, originally launched as a six-week summer replacement series. Modeled after the British hit Strictly Come Dancing, the show quickly captivated audiences with its blend of celebrity glitz and ballroom drama, becoming an unexpected ratings juggernaut.

Hosted by Tom Bergeron and Lisa Canning in its first season, the show soon saw a rotating cast of co-hosts. Bergeron remained as the series host and was subsequently joined by Samantha Harris, Brooke Burke, and Erin Andrews.

The series was retooled after Bergeron and Andrews were fired in 2020. Tyra Banks subsequently took over hosting and producing the series. She was later joined by Alfonso Ribeiro as co-host.

Currently, Ribeiro and Julianne Hough serve as co-hosts. Over the years, the judging panel has featured industry icons like Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Derek Hough.

With its mix of star power, emotional journeys, and high-stakes performances, DWTS became a cultural phenomenon and a cornerstone of ABC’s prime-time lineup for nearly two decades. But as the series moves into Season 33, is it nearing its end?

Could Season 33 be ‘Dancing With the Stars’ final bow?

Could Season 33 mark the last dance for Dancing with the Stars? After nearly two decades of glitter, glam, and emotional goodbyes, the iconic ballroom competition may be nearing its final bow.

As the show celebrates its 20th anniversary, longtime fans are wondering if this milestone season will also serve as its swan song. While ABC has yet to confirm the show’s future, shifting viewing habits, streaming trends, and cast shakeups suggest the network could be reevaluating its once-unshakable hit. Format tweaks and fluctuating ratings have all played a role in the show’s evolving identity.

Still, it’s hard to imagine television without the sparkle of sequins, the drama of elimination night, or the heartwarming transformation of stars learning to dance. Dancing with the Stars has given viewers viral moments, unexpected comebacks, and unforgettable partnerships for 32 seasons.

The series has also reduced viewers to tears. One of its most unforgettable moments was a tribute to OG judge and ballroom legend, Len Goodman, in October 2023. Goodman died months earlier, in April.

Whether Season 33 is the final curtain or just the beginning of a new chapter, it’s clear the show has already left a lasting legacy in the world of reality TV. Fans will be watching closely—not just for the scores, but for signs of what’s next.

Inside the New Season of ‘DWTS’: Cast, Judges, Premiere Date & More

It hasn’t been formally announced by Disney and ABC if DWTS will be returning in 2025. Typically the network’s Fall upfronts are held in May.

The series continued success warrants it a spot on ABC’s Fall slot. However, nothing is certain until the network makes it announcement whether Dancing With the Stars will return in the Fall of 2025.

The series airs yearly in mid-September and runs through mid-November. It celebrated its 500th episode in 2024.

Unless the show heads in a completely different direction (as they did with Tyra Banks), Alfonso Ribeiro (Season 19 mirrorball winner) and former pro-Julianne Hough (2-time mirrorball winner) will return as hosts. Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli will likely return to the judge’s table for Season 33.

The celebrity cast of Dancing with the Stars is usually announced just weeks ahead of the season premiere. As for the pro dancers, many don’t find out if they’re returning until they’re officially paired with their celebrity partners—keeping everyone, even the pros, on their toes.

Dancing With the Stars is currently on hiatus. The series airs on ABC and Disney +. It streams on Hulu the next day.