The dazzling lights, extravagant costumes, and glitzy ballroom are back as Dancing With The Stars triumphantly returns for Season 32. The premiere episode, which aired on ABC, marked the show’s grand comeback after facing a series of challenges.
According to EW, The night began with a celestial intro, transporting viewers to the “Mirrorball Universe” aboard a spaceship, guided by the show’s returning host, Alfonso Ribeiro, and his new co-host, Julianne Hough. The stage was set for a thrilling season, but it wasn’t without its hurdles.
In the lead-up to the premiere, uncertainty loomed as striking WGA writers picketed rehearsals, targeting comedian Matt Walsh and actresses Alyson Hannigan and Mira Sorvino. Walsh temporarily withdrew from the competition, awaiting the outcome of negotiations between the WGA and the AMPTP.
Thankfully, a tentative agreement was reached, giving him the green light to return to the dance floor.
This season brought significant changes, starting with the renaming of the top prize to honor the late head judge, Len Goodman. The “Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy” will now be the coveted award.
Additionally, the show returned to its original network, ABC, while still being available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
Familiar Faces and Fresh Talent
Despite these transformations, some familiar faces remained, including judges Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli.
The premiere showcased promising performances, with Marvel star Xochitl Gomez delivering an impressive cha-cha and Greg Brady himself, Barry Williams, fulfilling a 17-year dream by gracing the dance floor.
Influencer and Too Hot To Handle star Harry Jowsey brought an upbeat vibe to the stage, although his cha-cha received modest scores. However, Grammy winner Jason Mraz and the most recent Bachelorette, Charity Lawson, stole the limelight with their captivating routines. Mraz danced to his own hit, “I Feel Like Dancing,” earning praise from the judges.
Yet, with every high comes a low, and this season’s premiere saw a heartbreaking elimination. Despite his cha-cha efforts, Matt Walsh and his partner Koko Iwasaki were the first pair to leave the competition.
The 32nd season of Dancing With The Stars has only just begun, promising a thrilling journey of dance, drama, and unforgettable moments.
Stay tuned for more captivating performances and shocking eliminations in the weeks to come.
