‘Dancing with the Stars’ reveals new celebrity cast member from ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’
Dancing with the Stars Reveals New Celebrity Cast Member
Dancing with the Stars reveals new celebrity - On June 17, the iconic dance competition "Dancing with the Stars" made a surprising announcement, revealing a fresh addition to its Season 35 lineup. Guillermo Rodriguez, the long-time sidekick of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, has joined the show as a celebrity contestant, marking a notable shift in his career. Known for his comedic role on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" since 2003, Rodriguez will now take on the challenge of ballroom dancing, adding a unique blend of humor and charisma to the series. The revelation came via ABC, generating buzz among fans who are eager to see how the veteran performer will adapt to the high-stakes environment of the dance floor.
A Transition from Comedy to Competition
Rodriguez’s journey with "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" began as a security guard, a role that evolved into a beloved on-screen presence. His ability to engage audiences with witty banter and quick jokes has made him a staple of the show, but this new venture signals a bold step into a different realm of entertainment. While the details of his training and preparation remain under wraps, the addition of Rodriguez highlights how "Dancing with the Stars" continues to attract diverse personalities, blending humor with the physical and emotional demands of professional dance.
"This is going to be so great. Don't lose a single adorable pound. Okay, do you promise?" Jimmy Kimmel quipped during a recent episode, teasing Rodriguez’s upcoming role.
The comedian’s playful humor reflects the lighthearted yet competitive spirit of "Dancing with the Stars." Rodriguez, known for his signature quips, responded with his trademark flair, promising, "If I lose five pounds, I’ll gain ten," before Kimmel wished him luck. This exchange underscores the camaraderie between the host and his longtime collaborator, a dynamic that now transitions into the spotlight of the dance show.
Bridging Multiple TV Universes
Season 35 of "Dancing with the Stars" is set to feature a mix of reality TV stars, athletes, and actors, creating a compelling lineup of talents. Alongside Rodriguez, the cast includes Ciara Miller, a star from "Summer House," and Maura Higgins, a fan favorite from "Love Island." Both have previously appeared on "The Traitors," where they showcased their resilience and charisma in competitive settings. The inclusion of these personalities adds a fresh layer of storytelling, as "Dancing with the Stars" continues to reveal its unique blend of entertainment and performance.
Another standout addition is Jackson Olson, the second baseman of the Savannah Bananas baseball team. His casting, confirmed at the May 12 Disney Upfronts, introduces a new dimension to the show, bridging the gap between sports and television. The combination of Rodriguez’s comedic background and Olson’s athletic prowess promises to bring a dynamic energy to the competition, making "Dancing with the Stars" a more multifaceted experience for viewers.
Legacy and Future of the Show
The latest season follows the success of Season 34, which was won by wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin and pro dancer Witney Carson. Their victory in November 2025 not only highlighted the show’s ability to pair celebrities with skilled partners but also reinforced its role as a platform for diverse storytelling. Irwin, now set to host the franchise’s new spinoff "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro" premiering July 13, will mentor emerging talents, ensuring the legacy of the series continues to evolve.
With the new season, "Dancing with the Stars" reveals its commitment to innovation while staying true to its core appeal. The show’s ability to attract high-profile figures from various fields—comedy, reality TV, and sports—demonstrates its enduring popularity. As fans anticipate the debut of Season 35, the addition of Guillermo Rodriguez and others like him is expected to keep the series at the forefront of television, blending entertainment with the thrill of competition.
Reactions from the Cast and Fans
The announcement of Rodriguez’s participation has sparked mixed reactions, with some fans expressing surprise and others excited about his potential. His girlfriend, Maggie Sajak, daughter of "Wheel of Fortune" host Pat Sajak, shared her pride on Instagram, calling the news "beyond proud" for the baseball team’s second baseman. This endorsement reflects the broader enthusiasm for the show’s ability to "Dancing with the Stars reveals" new talent across different industries.
Maura Higgins, who was the first cast member announced for Hulu’s "Get Real House" on April 12, expressed her anticipation for the new season. She highlighted her long-standing admiration for "Dancing with the Stars," stating that the show had always been on her vision board. Her decision to prioritize the American version over international iterations of the franchise underscores the show’s continued appeal and relevance. As the series prepares to "Dancing with the Stars reveals" its full cast, fans are optimistic about the upcoming season’s potential for unforgettable moments.