The Dancing with the Stars ballroom is celebrating two decades of fun.
Week 9 of season 34 of the competition, airing Tuesday, Nov. 11, is its special 20th Birthday Party celebration. Joining as a guest judge for the evening is former host Tom Bergeron.
The night will begin with an opening number set to a reimagined live version of the “Dancing with the Stars Theme” by Ray Chew. Choreographed by judge Derek Hough, the number will bring together the show’s current pros and troupe, as well as six original pros from season 1: Alec Mazo, Ashly DelGrosso, Louis van Amstel, Jonathan Roberts, Charlotte Jorgensen and Edyta Śliwińska.
Then, the show will honor DWTS members who have died with a performance by pros Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold to “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga.
In the first round of the competition, the remaining seven couples will each showcase a new style to a song inspired by an iconic freestyle performance from past seasons. Later in the evening, the Relay Dance competition will return.
In this challenge, one couple will perform to the first half of a song, followed by a second couple who will complete the second half. The judges will then decide the winner of each relay, with the victorious couples of each relay earning two bonus points apiece.
For the first time ever in the relay, the celebrities will dance without their professional partners, instead joining forces with a returning Mirrorball champion to perform a Quickstep, Viennese Waltz or Jive.
As a result of their top scores in the individual dance round from the previous week (and their cumulative judges’ totals all season), Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas have received immunity and will not have to participate in the relay dances. They will automatically receive two bonus points as part of their immunity.
Fans will be able to vote during the live show for their favorite couples. Live viewer votes from the night will be combined with the judges’ scores and bonus points to determine which couples will escape elimination and dance in next week’s semi-finals, deemed Prince Night.
Keep reading for a full recap from week 9 of Dancing with the Stars.
(Note: the most recent updates appear at the top, so scroll all the way down to start from the beginning of the show.)
Dylan was partner with actress Rumer Willis, replacing Daniella, while Andy Richter was teamed with The Bachelorette‘s Kaitlyn Bristowe, replacing Emma. They danced a Viennese Waltz to “Earned It” by The Weeknd.
After Dylan and Rumor waltzed through the ballroom, Andy made his grand entrance with Kaitlyn as she ripped his button-down to reveal a shirt with fake abs underneath.
“First of all Andy, that was ab-fab,” said Tom.
“Andy, you wanted to distract me and you succeeded,” said Bruno. “This is going to go viral, it really is!”
Carrie Ann called Rumer and Dylan “magic” while she said Andy had “sex appeal.” “You are sexy tonight!”
Derek said it looked like Rumer and Dylan had been dancing together forever, and praised Andy: “It was good!”
Winner: Dylan and Rumer
The relay portion of the evening kicked off with Jordan against Elaine. Jordan’s partner Ezra was replaced with Olympian, Apolo Ohno, while Elaine’s partner Alan was replaced with NFL’s Rashad Jennings. They performed a Quick Step to “I Get a Kick Out of You” by Michael Bublé.
Derek said Apolo was “incredible” and praised both teams for a job “well done.”
Tom compared the performances to a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: “All kinds of fun.”
Bruno teased they “have to wait and see” his score, while Carrie Ann praised both former contestants for their sharp skills.
Winner: Jordan and Apolo
During a package focusing on the judges, they looked back on their time throughout the years, including their first day on set and the funny moments that ensued. (Yes, Carrie Ann counted the times she fell out of her chair.)
But at the end, they all remembered Len, and the legacy he left in the ballroom. “None of this would have been possible without Len,” said Bruno.
Derek said he first met Len when he was 15, and “to sit in his seat, cause it will always be his seat, it’s an honor.”
“His presence will always be a part of Dancing with the Stars,” Carrie Ann added.
Even though they have immunity this week, Whitney said she is still “under a microscope” and still wants to “deliver.”
Mark explained their Argentine Tango to “Cell Block Tango” from “Chicago The Musical” was inspired by Gabby Windey’s performance from season 31. “I need to find that passion that Gabby had,” she said.
Their steamy performance was a sharp take with plenty of kicks and twists.
Carrie Ann said it was “incredibly passionate and precise” and told Whitney she nailed the way she “stuck” her foot during the dance.
Derek said it was “dripping” in “elegance and control.” He said they nailed the “artistry, musicality and theatrics,” adding, “it had it all.”
Tom almost missed his moment to lock his score because he was so blown away. Bruno called her a “ruthless killer” who is “driven by passion.” He concluded by calling her the “best dancer tonight.”
Whitney and Mark was the fourth couple of the night to earn a perfect 10 from every judge.
Score: 40/40
Alix and Val’s Foxtrot to “Singin’ in the Rain” by Matthew Morrison was inspired by Nev Schulman’s rendition from season 29. Val told cameras that Alix needs to “surrender” and let go this week.
Channeling old school glamour, they danced in classic gowns and tuxes to accompany their elegant choreography.
Bruno said he “entered ballroom heaven” saying “this is how you do it.” He said they captured the “essence and glamour” of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Carrie Ann noticed Alix is “letting go” now, and that’s the “heart and soul of the show.”
Derek said it was “clean, classic smooth” adding that it was “flawless.”
Tom said at the top of the show that he wanted to see “goosebump-induced” dances and that delivered.
They earned the third perfect score of the season.
Score: 40/40
Jordan and Ezra inspired their dance from Wayne Brady’s Cha Cha in season 31, set to “Get Up” by Ciara featuring Chamillionaire. Jordan said she’s always wanted to dance the Cha Cha. “Please do us justice,” she said to the cameras.
Tom asked maintenance to turn up the air conditioning because “it got really hot in here.”
Bruno called her a “bad, bad, bad girl” and said she definitely “brought sexy back” to the Cha Cha Cha.
“Strong dance, little wild at times,” Carrie Ann said, while adding that Jordan’s shoulders are coming up while she’s turning. “It happened numerous times,” she said, adding that her critique is so Jordan can keep improving.
Derek closed his eyes visualizing all the little things she perfected. “I love the texture and the body and I saw that tonight,” he told Jordan.
Score: 37/40
Dylan’s partner Daniella told him their Argentine Tango was inspired by Milo Manheim, who performed in season 27 in 2018. Dylan told cameras he wants to get better at being in character, and said he feels a breakthrough is “imminent” this week.
They started their dance, to “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers, with impressive lifts before moving into sharp tuns and twists.
Derek channeled Len by saying, “hold my gaze” before telling him, “That was your breakthrough moment by a long shot!” He added when people ask who surprises him the most, his answer is Dylan. He ended by praising Daniella’s choreography.
Tom said it looked like “two” pros were dancing. “I know your brother’s an actor, you’re a leading man.”
Bruno said Dylan wasn’t “dancing,” he was “starring” tonight. Carrie Ann called his journey “outstanding” and said she’s bestowing the crown for best Argentine Tango from Gilles Marini (from season 8), to Dylan.
They scored the second perfect score of the season.
Score: 40/40
The competition paused for a moment of remembrance for the contestants and judge that have died since their time on the show.
Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold performed to “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga as photos of past contestants graced the screen behind them.
Jerry Springer, Cloris Leachman, Aaron Carter, Shannen Doherty, Florence Henderson, Kirstie Alley, Jacoby Jones, Valerie Harper, Suzanne Somers, Mary Wilson and Anne Heche were al remembered. The final photo showed original judge, Len Goodman.
Andy groaned when Emma told him he’s doing the Quick Step this week, inspired by Jordan Fisher, who was on season 25. “This is an intimidating dance for sure,” said Andy. “It’s right there in the name, it’s quick.”
They sold it, performing to “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Robbie Williams complete with big feathers and top hats as they skipped across the floor.
Carrie Ann said “there’s is no greater honor or privilege” than watching someone give their best every week. “This is why our hearts go out to you,” she said, adding that he’s “turning into a dancer.”
Derek said Andy accomplished the Quick Step, even if he groaned in the promo package about taking on this dance. Tom told Andy the late Len Goodman would have “loved” his performance.
Bruno said “it was quick and it had plenty of steps, what more do you want?”
Andy said the Quick Step in the end, was “really fun.” “I’m loving being out there,” he told Julianne in the sky box.
Score: 29/40
During practice, Robert got a surprise from sister Bindi and her daughter Grace. Robert explained that he was supposed to be in Brazil for Earth Shot Prize alongside Prince William last week, but instead, he had to tell the royal, he’s “still here,” in the competition.
Robert revealed to Bindi that they were performing a Foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis, which Bindi danced during her winning season on the show. Robert says it was extra special since Bindi dedicated it to their father, the late Steve Irwin. “There’s a lot of weight,” he says, “because I really want it to be our best dance yet, to be honest.”
While they took a breather, Prince William called Robert and told him they missed him while he was practicing, calling him “twinkle toes.” He wished them both luck before signing off.
“I can’t believe he just said my name,” Witney said. “Let’s not mess this up!” added Robert.
Bindi came out at the end of his emotional dance, as a photo of their parents flashed on the ballroom floor. Robert ended the performance in tears.
Bruno said he got the “royal seal of approval,” while Carrie Ann called the dance “so powerful and profound,” after commenting on his foot that came off the ground.
Derek felt “honored” to be tangled in the Irwin story (he was partners with Bindi). He called Robert this generation’s “beacon of joy.”
Tom said he was “annoyed” because he was trying not to get chocked up, calling Robert “a star” since he last saw him at age 11 when he was watching Bindi dance.
They were awarded the first perfect score of the season.
Score: 40/40
Elaine said this week, she’s “full steam ahead” after getting “great scores” last week.
As Elaine and Alan practiced, they said they channeled their Salsa to honor past contestant, Mario Lopez, who was on season 3. Elaine said despite her injury two weeks ago, they aren’t holding back.
They kicked off their electric Salsa, set to “It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock, with the help of backup dancers for a boost.
After, Tom got up out of his seat to congratulate his “friend” and jumped up and down yelling: “That was really good!”
Bruno said “that’s how you get the party started!” Adding, that there’s “something special” with Elaine, comparing her to fine champagne.
Carrie Ann said the word to describe her is “resilience,” while Derek called her a “sizzling salsa queen” and praised their continuous spins in the choreography. “Incredible!”
Score: 36/40
After an epic opening number to the soundtrack of the show’s theme song, choreographed by Derek, Tom introduced the show and stepped out alongside Alfonso and Julianne.
Julianne began tearing up welcoming Tom back to the ballroom as their “honorary guest judge.”
“Hi sweetheart, I am thrilled to be here, what a rush,” Tom said.
He explained he’s looking for the kind of dance that gives “goosebumps,” while avoiding a “concussion” sitting next to Bruno at the judges table.
Tom will be back in the ballroom for the first time since he was let go from the show in 2020.
He recently told TV Insider that it’s “going to be great” to be back in his old stomping grounds.
“I’m anticipating that it’s going to be a wonderfully emotional, nostalgic night,” he said. “It’s so much fun to watch my friends do the work. I don’t have to throw to commercials. I don’t have to worry about the timing.”
“I’ll be respectful and sensitive of what [co-host] Alfonso [Ribeiro] has to deal with, ’cause I’ve been there,” he continued. “But I’m just looking forward to being in an environment surrounded by people I really care about on live television, where there’s no second take. It’s my happy place.”
Alix Earle and partner Val Chmerkovskiy will perform a Foxtrot to “Singin’ in the Rain” by Matthew Morrison. For the Relay Dance, Alix will perform with Joey Graziadei.
Robert Irwin and partner Witney Carson will perform a Foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis. For the Relay Dance, Robert will perform with Xochitl Gomez.
Whitney Leavitt and partner Mark Ballas will perform an Argentine Tango to “Cell Block Tango” from “Chicago The Musical.” Whitney will not perform in the Relay Dance.
Dylan Efron and partner Daniella Karagach will perform an Argentine Tango to “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers. For the Relay Dance, Dylan will perform with Rumer Willis.
Andy Richter and partner Emma Slater will perform a Quickstep to “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Robbie Williams. For the Relay Dance, Andy will perform with Kaitlyn Bristowe.
Elaine Hendrix and partner Alan Bersten will perform a Salsa to “It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock. For the Relay Dance, Elaine will perform with Rashad Jennings.
Jordan Chiles and partner Ezra Sosa will perform a Cha Cha to “Get Up” by Ciara featuring Chamillionaire. For the Relay Dance, Jordan will perform with Apolo Ohno.
The Dancing with the Stars ballroom is celebrating two decades of fun.
Week 9 of season 34 of the competition, airing Tuesday, Nov. 11, is its special 20th Birthday Party celebration. Joining as a guest judge for the evening is former host Tom Bergeron.
The night will begin with an opening number set to a reimagined live version of the “Dancing with the Stars Theme” by Ray Chew. Choreographed by judge Derek Hough, the number will bring together the show’s current pros and troupe, as well as six original pros from season 1: Alec Mazo, Ashly DelGrosso, Louis van Amstel, Jonathan Roberts, Charlotte Jorgensen and Edyta Śliwińska.
Then, the show will honor DWTS members who have died with a performance by pros Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold to “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga.
In the first round of the competition, the remaining seven couples will each showcase a new style to a song inspired by an iconic freestyle performance from past seasons. Later in the evening, the Relay Dance competition will return.
In this challenge, one couple will perform to the first half of a song, followed by a second couple who will complete the second half. The judges will then decide the winner of each relay, with the victorious couples of each relay earning two bonus points apiece.
For the first time ever in the relay, the celebrities will dance without their professional partners, instead joining forces with a returning Mirrorball champion to perform a Quickstep, Viennese Waltz or Jive.
As a result of their top scores in the individual dance round from the previous week (and their cumulative judges’ totals all season), Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas have received immunity and will not have to participate in the relay dances. They will automatically receive two bonus points as part of their immunity.
Fans will be able to vote during the live show for their favorite couples. Live viewer votes from the night will be combined with the judges’ scores and bonus points to determine which couples will escape elimination and dance in next week’s semi-finals, deemed Prince Night.
Keep reading for a full recap from week 9 of Dancing with the Stars.
(Note: the most recent updates appear at the top, so scroll all the way down to start from the beginning of the show.)
Alfonso said tonight the show made history and received the “most votes ever.”
He and Julianne announced, in no particular order, that Whitney and Mark, Dylan and Daniella, Alix and Val, Robert and Whitney were safe and going to the semi-finals.
Based on judges scores and viewers votes, they revealed the couple going home was Andy and Emma, making Jordan and Ezra and Elaine and Alan safe.
“It changed my life,” said Andy. “I’m a different person because of this show and this woman [Emma] right here. None of this would have happened without her.”
Alix’s partner Val was replaced by The Bachelor’s Joey Graziadei, while Robert’s partner Witney was replaced by actress Xochitl Gomez. They danced a Jive to “Dance with Me Tonight” by Olly Murs.
Bruno called the standard this season “outstanding.” He said he couldn’t fault anything, it was a matter of taste because what they did was “brilliant.”
Carrie Ann said she “loved” this challenge seeing the winners come back, while Derek pointed out the fact that Val trained both Xochitl and Alix. He also called out Xochitl and Robert’s chemistry.
In Tom’s last moments as a guest judge, he spoke to the network, asking them to bring back the results show, saying, “let the whole country vote.”
Winner: Robert and Xochitl
Dylan was partner with actress Rumer Willis, replacing Daniella, while Andy Richter was teamed with The Bachelorette‘s Kaitlyn Bristowe, replacing Emma. They danced a Viennese Waltz to “Earned It” by The Weeknd.
After Dylan and Rumor waltzed through the ballroom, Andy made his grand entrance with Kaitlyn as she ripped his button-down to reveal a shirt with fake abs underneath.
“First of all Andy, that was ab-fab,” said Tom.
“Andy, you wanted to distract me and you succeeded,” said Bruno. “This is going to go viral, it really is!”
Carrie Ann called Rumer and Dylan “magic” while she said Andy had “sex appeal.” “You are sexy tonight!”
Derek said it looked like Rumer and Dylan had been dancing together forever, and praised Andy: “It was good!”
Winner: Dylan and Rumer
The relay portion of the evening kicked off with Jordan against Elaine. Jordan’s partner Ezra was replaced with Olympian, Apolo Ohno, while Elaine’s partner Alan was replaced with NFL’s Rashad Jennings. They performed a Quick Step to “I Get a Kick Out of You” by Michael Bublé.
Derek said Apolo was “incredible” and praised both teams for a job “well done.”
Tom compared the performances to a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: “All kinds of fun.”
Bruno teased they “have to wait and see” his score, while Carrie Ann praised both former contestants for their sharp skills.
Winner: Jordan and Apolo
During a package focusing on the judges, they looked back on their time throughout the years, including their first day on set and the funny moments that ensued. (Yes, Carrie Ann counted the times she fell out of her chair.)
But at the end, they all remembered Len, and the legacy he left in the ballroom. “None of this would have been possible without Len,” said Bruno.
Derek said he first met Len when he was 15, and “to sit in his seat, cause it will always be his seat, it’s an honor.”
“His presence will always be a part of Dancing with the Stars,” Carrie Ann added.
Even though they have immunity this week, Whitney said she is still “under a microscope” and still wants to “deliver.”
Mark explained their Argentine Tango to “Cell Block Tango” from “Chicago The Musical” was inspired by Gabby Windey’s performance from season 31. “I need to find that passion that Gabby had,” she said.
Their steamy performance was a sharp take with plenty of kicks and twists.
Carrie Ann said it was “incredibly passionate and precise” and told Whitney she nailed the way she “stuck” her foot during the dance.
Derek said it was “dripping” in “elegance and control.” He said they nailed the “artistry, musicality and theatrics,” adding, “it had it all.”
Tom almost missed his moment to lock his score because he was so blown away. Bruno called her a “ruthless killer” who is “driven by passion.” He concluded by calling her the “best dancer tonight.”
Whitney and Mark was the fourth couple of the night to earn a perfect 10 from every judge.
Score: 40/40
Alix and Val’s Foxtrot to “Singin’ in the Rain” by Matthew Morrison was inspired by Nev Schulman’s rendition from season 29. Val told cameras that Alix needs to “surrender” and let go this week.
Channeling old school glamour, they danced in classic gowns and tuxes to accompany their elegant choreography.
Bruno said he “entered ballroom heaven” saying “this is how you do it.” He said they captured the “essence and glamour” of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Carrie Ann noticed Alix is “letting go” now, and that’s the “heart and soul of the show.”
Derek said it was “clean, classic smooth” adding that it was “flawless.”
Tom said at the top of the show that he wanted to see “goosebump-induced” dances and that delivered.
They earned the third perfect score of the season.
Score: 40/40
Jordan and Ezra inspired their dance from Wayne Brady’s Cha Cha in season 31, set to “Get Up” by Ciara featuring Chamillionaire. Jordan said she’s always wanted to dance the Cha Cha. “Please do us justice,” she said to the cameras.
Tom asked maintenance to turn up the air conditioning because “it got really hot in here.”
Bruno called her a “bad, bad, bad girl” and said she definitely “brought sexy back” to the Cha Cha Cha.
“Strong dance, little wild at times,” Carrie Ann said, while adding that Jordan’s shoulders are coming up while she’s turning. “It happened numerous times,” she said, adding that her critique is so Jordan can keep improving.
Derek closed his eyes visualizing all the little things she perfected. “I love the texture and the body and I saw that tonight,” he told Jordan.
Score: 37/40
Dylan’s partner Daniella told him their Argentine Tango was inspired by Milo Manheim, who performed in season 27 in 2018. Dylan told cameras he wants to get better at being in character, and said he feels a breakthrough is “imminent” this week.
They started their dance, to “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers, with impressive lifts before moving into sharp tuns and twists.
Derek channeled Len by saying, “hold my gaze” before telling him, “That was your breakthrough moment by a long shot!” He added when people ask who surprises him the most, his answer is Dylan. He ended by praising Daniella’s choreography.
Tom said it looked like “two” pros were dancing. “I know your brother’s an actor, you’re a leading man.”
Bruno said Dylan wasn’t “dancing,” he was “starring” tonight. Carrie Ann called his journey “outstanding” and said she’s bestowing the crown for best Argentine Tango from Gilles Marini (from season 8), to Dylan.
They scored the second perfect score of the season.
Score: 40/40
The competition paused for a moment of remembrance for the contestants and judge that have died since their time on the show.
Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold performed to “Always Remember Us This Way” by Lady Gaga as photos of past contestants graced the screen behind them.
Jerry Springer, Cloris Leachman, Aaron Carter, Shannen Doherty, Florence Henderson, Kirstie Alley, Jacoby Jones, Valerie Harper, Suzanne Somers, Mary Wilson and Anne Heche were al remembered. The final photo showed original judge, Len Goodman.
Andy groaned when Emma told him he’s doing the Quick Step this week, inspired by Jordan Fisher, who was on season 25. “This is an intimidating dance for sure,” said Andy. “It’s right there in the name, it’s quick.”
They sold it, performing to “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Robbie Williams complete with big feathers and top hats as they skipped across the floor.
Carrie Ann said “there’s is no greater honor or privilege” than watching someone give their best every week. “This is why our hearts go out to you,” she said, adding that he’s “turning into a dancer.”
Derek said Andy accomplished the Quick Step, even if he groaned in the promo package about taking on this dance. Tom told Andy the late Len Goodman would have “loved” his performance.
Bruno said “it was quick and it had plenty of steps, what more do you want?”
Andy said the Quick Step in the end, was “really fun.” “I’m loving being out there,” he told Julianne in the sky box.
Score: 29/40
During practice, Robert got a surprise from sister Bindi and her daughter Grace. Robert explained that he was supposed to be in Brazil for Earth Shot Prize alongside Prince William last week, but instead, he had to tell the royal, he’s “still here,” in the competition.
Robert revealed to Bindi that they were performing a Foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis, which Bindi danced during her winning season on the show. Robert says it was extra special since Bindi dedicated it to their father, the late Steve Irwin. “There’s a lot of weight,” he says, “because I really want it to be our best dance yet, to be honest.”
While they took a breather, Prince William called Robert and told him they missed him while he was practicing, calling him “twinkle toes.” He wished them both luck before signing off.
“I can’t believe he just said my name,” Witney said. “Let’s not mess this up!” added Robert.
Bindi came out at the end of his emotional dance, as a photo of their parents flashed on the ballroom floor. Robert ended the performance in tears.
Bruno said he got the “royal seal of approval,” while Carrie Ann called the dance “so powerful and profound,” after commenting on his foot that came off the ground.
Derek felt “honored” to be tangled in the Irwin story (he was partners with Bindi). He called Robert this generation’s “beacon of joy.”
Tom said he was “annoyed” because he was trying not to get chocked up, calling Robert “a star” since he last saw him at age 11 when he was watching Bindi dance.
They were awarded the first perfect score of the season.
Score: 40/40
Elaine said this week, she’s “full steam ahead” after getting “great scores” last week.
As Elaine and Alan practiced, they said they channeled their Salsa to honor past contestant, Mario Lopez, who was on season 3. Elaine said despite her injury two weeks ago, they aren’t holding back.
They kicked off their electric Salsa, set to “It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock, with the help of backup dancers for a boost.
After, Tom got up out of his seat to congratulate his “friend” and jumped up and down yelling: “That was really good!”
Bruno said “that’s how you get the party started!” Adding, that there’s “something special” with Elaine, comparing her to fine champagne.
Carrie Ann said the word to describe her is “resilience,” while Derek called her a “sizzling salsa queen” and praised their continuous spins in the choreography. “Incredible!”
Score: 36/40
After an epic opening number to the soundtrack of the show’s theme song, choreographed by Derek, Tom introduced the show and stepped out alongside Alfonso and Julianne.
Julianne began tearing up welcoming Tom back to the ballroom as their “honorary guest judge.”
“Hi sweetheart, I am thrilled to be here, what a rush,” Tom said.
He explained he’s looking for the kind of dance that gives “goosebumps,” while avoiding a “concussion” sitting next to Bruno at the judges table.
Tom will be back in the ballroom for the first time since he was let go from the show in 2020.
He recently told TV Insider that it’s “going to be great” to be back in his old stomping grounds.
“I’m anticipating that it’s going to be a wonderfully emotional, nostalgic night,” he said. “It’s so much fun to watch my friends do the work. I don’t have to throw to commercials. I don’t have to worry about the timing.”
“I’ll be respectful and sensitive of what [co-host] Alfonso [Ribeiro] has to deal with, ’cause I’ve been there,” he continued. “But I’m just looking forward to being in an environment surrounded by people I really care about on live television, where there’s no second take. It’s my happy place.”
Alix Earle and partner Val Chmerkovskiy will perform a Foxtrot to “Singin’ in the Rain” by Matthew Morrison. For the Relay Dance, Alix will perform with Joey Graziadei.
Robert Irwin and partner Witney Carson will perform a Foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis. For the Relay Dance, Robert will perform with Xochitl Gomez.
Whitney Leavitt and partner Mark Ballas will perform an Argentine Tango to “Cell Block Tango” from “Chicago The Musical.” Whitney will not perform in the Relay Dance.
Dylan Efron and partner Daniella Karagach will perform an Argentine Tango to “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers. For the Relay Dance, Dylan will perform with Rumer Willis.
Andy Richter and partner Emma Slater will perform a Quickstep to “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Robbie Williams. For the Relay Dance, Andy will perform with Kaitlyn Bristowe.
Elaine Hendrix and partner Alan Bersten will perform a Salsa to “It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock. For the Relay Dance, Elaine will perform with Rashad Jennings.
Jordan Chiles and partner Ezra Sosa will perform a Cha Cha to “Get Up” by Ciara featuring Chamillionaire. For the Relay Dance, Jordan will perform with Apolo Ohno.