What To Know
- For the first time since 2016, Dancing With the Stars received an Emmys nomination for Outstanding Reality Competition Program.
- Pro dancer Witney Carson revealed why she’s so “proud” to be part of the show and explained the recent resurgence in popularity.
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars will always be a special one for Witney Carson. Not only did she win the Mirrorball trophy with partner Robert Irwin, but the show has now also received an Outstanding Reality Competition Program Emmys nomination for the first time since 2016.
“It’s an amazing thing that it’s had this resurgence,” Carson told TV Insider. “For as long as it’s been on air, the fact that we’re really reaching the Gen-Zs and this younger generation is so incredible.”
Carson credits the show’s celebrity casting and the pro dancers being “really active” on social media as the main reason for the renewed popularity. “I think in a world where things are very uncertain, this show is very much about positivity. It’s about joy, it’s about camaraderie, it’s about coming together, and I think people really gravitate toward that,” she added. “They want to root for people being vulnerable and sharing their stories.”
The So You Think You Can Dance? alum said she’s “proud” to be part of the show. “We don’t harp on the drama, and we don’t want people to fail,” Carson pointed out. “We want people to succeed. I’m very proud to be part of something that promotes that.”
Of course, this resurgence has also put some pressure on Carson and the fellow pros to keep up with social media content throughout the season, all while sticking to the demanding schedule of rehearsals, fittings, show prep, and more.
“It does take away from rehearsal time a little bit, but I think, all in all, we know that it’s beneficial for votes and we know it’s beneficial for our show,” she pointed out. “We know that it’s a way for the younger generation to engage with us and fall in love with us.”
Carson explained that social media allows fans more insight into the rehearsal process, as well as a deeper look at the partnerships between the pros and their celebrity partners. “I’ve always said there should be a show about just behind the scenes and what the pros and celebs go through together,” she admitted. “There’s so much funny stuff that happens during rehearsal. They’re filming 24/7.”
Dancing With the Stars, Season 36, Fall 2026, ABC and Disney+