Julia Stiles shocks Dancers With the Stars Season 35—see her spin!

Julia Stiles has joined the lineup for Dancing With the Stars Season 35. She will compete for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy when the season premieres on September 15 on ABC and Disney+.

Stiles first earned dance‑centric fame as Sara in the 2001 film “Save the Last Dance,” where she portrayed a determined young woman training for Juilliard while navigating an interracial relationship.

Beyond that, she has appeared in a range of genres from romantic comedies to action thrillers, cementing her status as a versatile performer. In interviews prior to this announcement, she has cited Dancing With the Stars as a favorite television show, describing it as her version of “Monday Night Football.”

Season 35 also boasts a mix of returning judges Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, and a new cohort of celebrities that includes Summer House alum Ciara Miller, Love Island veteran Maura Higgins, and TV personality Guillermo Rodriguez.

The full cast will be revealed on September 2 during a “Good Morning America” segment, giving viewers a week to anticipate the first dances. With its surge in popularity over recent seasons, DWTS continues to attract high‑profile contestants eager to showcase their skills on live television.

## What Happened

The casting decision for Julia Stiles was confirmed by network officials, who released a brief statement indicating that she will be competing in the upcoming season. Stiles’ inclusion was announced ahead of the official cast reveal scheduled for September 2.

The announcement followed her publicly expressed enthusiasm for ballroom dancing and prior mentions of wanting to join the show.

The announcement came as part of a larger rollout that includes other confirmed participants such as Ciara Miller and Maura Higgins.

While the network does not typically disclose casting details until the official announcement, it is clear that Julia Stiles was selected to bring her acting experience and dance background to the competition.

## Background & Context

Julia Stiles first rose to prominence in the early 2000s with a string of roles that showcased her range, from the teen romance “10 Things I Hate About You” to the dramatic thriller “The Omen.” Her performance in “Save the Last Dance” added a dance element to her résumé, as she portrayed a young dancer striving for admission to Juilliard while balancing personal challenges.

Beyond film, Stiles has maintained a presence in television and theater, often selecting roles that challenge her creatively. She has also spoken about her love for dance and the discipline required to master new choreography, traits that align well with the demands of a televised dance competition.

The original “Dancing With the Stars” debuted in 2005 and has grown into a staple of American reality television. Each season features celebrities paired with professional dancers, competing in various styles for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, with judges Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli providing critiques.

## What Happens Next

The full season 35 cast will be unveiled on September 2 during a “Good Morning America” broadcast, giving fans a chance to learn who will be dancing alongside the returning professional partners. The show then airs its first episode on September 15, with weekly eliminations scheduled to follow thereafter.

In addition to the confirmed participants, rumors of other high‑profile celebrities joining the lineup have surfaced, though none have been officially announced. The network typically keeps casting decisions confidential until the official release, so viewers will need to wait for the September 2 announcement for final confirmation.

Season 35 also marks the return of judge trio Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, who have been mainstays on the show since its early seasons. Their presence provides continuity as the new contestants face a range of dance styles, from salsa to contemporary.

With a blend of seasoned performers and fresh faces, Season 35 promises a competitive mix that could surprise viewers. Fans will have to watch closely as the celebrities step onto the ballroom floor and showcase their growth in style and stamina.