Get ready for a night of tears, triumphs, and tangoes as 'Dancing with the Stars' transforms into a heartfelt celebration of love and gratitude on 'Dedication Night,' airing October 14th. This isn't your average glitter-filled spectacle; it's a raw, emotional journey where celebrities bare their souls through dance, honoring the people who shaped their lives. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the celebrities. For the first time ever, their chosen loved ones will join them on the ballroom floor, adding a layer of intimacy and vulnerability to the performances.
Two-time Mirrorball champion Kym Johnson returns to the judges' table, bringing her sharp eye and warm spirit to critique the couples as they navigate Contemporary, Foxtrot, Jive, Salsa, and Viennese Waltz. But here's where it gets controversial: will the added pressure of dancing alongside their inspirations elevate the performances or crumble under the weight of emotion?
The night kicks off with a star-studded lineup of dedications. Jen Affleck, from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, waltzes to 'Rescue' by Lauren Daigle, honoring her mother, Maria. Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles dedicates a Viennese Waltz to her father, Timothy, while social media sensation Alix Earle performs a Contemporary piece for her younger sister, Izabel.
But here’s the bold question: Can dance truly capture the depth of these relationships? Some might argue it’s impossible, while others believe it’s the purest form of expression. What do you think?
Fans in the ET/CT time zones can vote live during the simulcast on ABC and Disney+, while online voting opens nationwide (and in Canada!) via dwtsvote.abc.com. SMS voting is also available for U.S. fans on participating carriers. These votes, combined with the judges' scores, will determine who faces elimination—adding a layer of tension to an already emotional night.
Beyond the competition, the episode features stunning troupe performances, including 'Mystical Magical' by Benson Boone and 'Man I Need' by Olivia Dean. Pro dancers will also showcase their skills with routines choreographed by Jenna Johnson, Britt Stewart, and Brandon Armstrong.
After the show, dive deeper into the drama and dazzle with the 'Dancing with the Stars' Official Podcast, hosted by Season 33 champion Joey Graziadei. Available Thursdays on Disney+ and Hulu, it’s your backstage pass to exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and expert breakdowns of the most talked-about performances.
Co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, Dancing with the Stars continues to captivate audiences with its blend of celebrity charm, professional choreography, and heartfelt storytelling. But let’s not forget the elephant in the room: Is this season’s focus on personal dedications a genius move or a risky emotional gamble? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
For a sneak peek at what’s to come, check out the EPK footage available at dgepress.com. And don’t forget to follow ABC Publicity and Dancing with the Stars on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the latest updates.
Mark your calendars for October 14th at 8:00 p.m. EDT/PDT (7:00 p.m. CDT) and prepare to be moved. Because on 'Dedication Night,' it’s not just about the steps—it’s about the stories behind them.
