From ABC7 Los Angeles · · 2m
Dancing with the Stars season 35 kicks off with split premiere
The ballroom competition returns with 16 couples, nostalgia-themed dances, and tough judging from the start.
In brief
The ballroom competition returns with 16 couples, nostalgia-themed dances, and tough judging from the start. Season 35 splits its premiere across two nights, featuring male celebrities first and eliminating one couple after just eight performances. Originally reported by ABC7 Los Angeles.
Split premiere with 16 couples
Season 35 divides its premiere into two episodes: one for male celebrities, one for female stars. Each night ends with an elimination.
Nostalgia theme for week one
Stars perform to number one songs from the year they were born. Eight male celebrities danced on opening night.
Jackson Olson opens the show
Savannah Bananas star and Emma Slater cha-cha to Spice Girls' "Wannabe." Judge Derek Hough warns scoring will be especially tough this season.
Tyler Cameron impresses judges
The Bachelorette alum and Sharna Burgess tango to Lenny Kravitz. Carrie Ann says she's beyond impressed, while Derek notes a "Patrick Swayze aura."
Conner Leavitt struggles with salsa
Secret Lives of Mormon Wives husband and Adele Zaikman perform to "Whoomp! (There It Is)." Judges call it fun but chaotic with timing issues.
Guillermo Rodriguez entertains crowd
Jimmy Kimmel Live's Guillermo and Witney Carson cha-cha to "Mr. Big Stuff." Bruno says it's unforgettable, not in a good way, but definitely viral.
Ezra Frech earns top score
Paralympic gold medalist and Daniella Karagach tango to Kelly Clarkson. Derek gets emotional, comparing it to when he danced with Amy Purdy.
“This is why she loves 'Dancing with the Stars,' showing people what is possible, even in the face of adversity.”
Connor Wood brings charisma
Social media influencer and Rylee Arnold cha-cha to Tim McGraw. Derek calls them a double dose of dopamine but says timing needs work.
Taylor Hanson tackles tough quickstep
The musician and Britt Stewart perform to Billy Joel. Carrie Ann says she heard Len Goodman's voice telling her it was a proper quickstep.
Harry Shum Jr. closes strong
The actor and Jenna Johnson cha-cha to Earth, Wind & Fire. Bruno says their chemistry is off the charts, earning them 21 points.
Voting issues hit premiere night
Online voting problems meant only text votes counted. Despite this, votes more than doubled from last season's premiere.
Conner Leavitt eliminated first
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives husband and new pro Adele Zaikman are sent home after just one week on the show.
The main idea
Season 35 splits its premiere across two nights, featuring male celebrities first and eliminating one couple after just eight performances.
