Fans of Dancing with the Stars are buzzing with excitement as Season 34 quickly approaches, set to premiere in just a few weeks. While only four celebrity contestants have been confirmed—Alix Earle, Robert Irwin, Whitney Leavitt, and Jennifer Affleck—the full cast will be revealed on September 3 during an appearance on Good Morning America. However, it’s not just the stars that have everyone talking—longtime viewers are eager to know which pro dancers will be hitting the floor this season.
In a thrilling twist, a beloved DWTS pro is making a surprise return. After Mark Ballas retired in 2023 following an incredible 20 seasons on the show, fans had assumed that the dance legend had hung up his shoes for good. But to everyone’s delight, DWTS reporter Kristyn Burtt revealed that Mark is coming out of retirement to compete in Season 34. This announcement sent shockwaves through the fanbase, who are thrilled to see him back on the ballroom floor.
Ballas, who briefly returned for a special performance with Derek Hough last season, is poised to shake up the competition. While DWTS has featured many fan-favorite pros over the years, Mark’s return has fans particularly excited, given his long history on the show and his immense talent. As of now, pros like Val Chmerkovskiy and Brandon Armstrong have been confirmed for the new season, but Gleb Savchenko revealed on social media that he won’t be returning.
However, Mark’s return hasn’t been without controversy. A few critics on social media have questioned his qualifications, citing an injury during rehearsals in the past. Mark was quick to set the record straight, reminding his detractors that, as a professional dancer with 20 seasons under his belt, he’s more than qualified. He also pointed out that all dancers, at some point, need to sit out due to injury. In true Mark fashion, he addressed the speculation surrounding his return, writing, “Nothing has been confirmed either. Ya’ll need to chill.”
As fans eagerly await the official announcement, one question on many minds is whether the show will feature a male-male pairing this season. DWTS made history in Season 30 with its first all-female pairing, when pro Jenna Johnson danced with JoJo Siwa. With Mark’s return, some are hoping for a groundbreaking male-male pairing to take the spotlight.
While Mark’s return isn’t officially confirmed yet, given Kristyn Burtt’s track record with accurate information, it seems like fans are in for a season full of surprises. With his talent and fierce energy, Mark’s comeback is sure to make Dancing with the Stars Season 34 one to remember.
