Dancing with the Stars has run for 30 seasons (!) on ABC. But now, the reality competition series will move to a new home.
Starting this fall, Dancing with the Stars will begin airing exclusively on Disney+.
“Dancing with the Stars has entertained fans for 16 years on ABC, and we are excited to bring this beloved show exclusively to Disney+ as the platform’s first-ever live series,” said Kareem Daniel, chairman of Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution. “The show’s broad appeal, as well as the overwhelming popularity of its Disney-themed competition nights, make Disney+ the perfect home for Dancing with the Stars while continuing to expand our demographic reach.”
The series received a two-season pickup by the streamer. It also marks a new turning point in Disney’s streaming strategy; Dancing with the Stars will mark the first live series to debut on the platform.
“Dancing with the Stars has been a beloved staple on ABC for 30 seasons and brought so much joy to millions of viewers,” said Dana Walden, Chairman of Entertainment at Walt Disney Television. “As we’re significantly expanding our unscripted slate at ABC, this is a great opportunity to introduce this show to a whole new generation of fans on Disney+. We’re so grateful to our incredible partners at BBC Studios and look forward to continuing our relationship with them on this spectacular series, which will continue to be overseen by Rob Mills and the talented Walt Disney Television Alternative team.”
Dancing with the Stars pairs celebrities with professional ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines. The competition series first aired in 2005 on ABC. Since then, it has become a global phenomenon, airing 30 seasons. Last fall, it ranked among the Top 5 unscripted series with adults aged 18-49.
Watch out for the new season of Dancing with the Stars on Disney+ this fall.