Tue Sep 16 21:10:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**”Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 Premiere Kicks Off Tonight – Carrie Ann Inaba Sidelined Due to Illness**

Los Angeles, CA – “Dancing with the Stars” returns for its 34th season tonight on ABC and Disney+, marking its milestone 20th anniversary. However, longtime judge Carrie Ann Inaba will be absent from the ballroom due to illness. Inaba announced her absence on social media, stating she was “feeling quite under the weather” and would be cheering the contestants on from home.

ABC has confirmed that Inaba will not be replaced for the premiere episode. Judges Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough will be the sole members of the judging panel providing feedback to the celebrity contestants.

Inaba is expected to return for the second episode on September 23rd. Her “Dancing with the Stars” family has sent well wishes, including heart emojis from Derek Hough and a “Get better soon sis” message from co-host Julianne Hough.

Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, this season features a diverse cast of contestants including Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” Fifth Harmony’s Lauren Jauregui, Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles, influencer Alix Earle, “The Traitors” winner Dylan Efron, and “Boy Meets World” star Danielle Fishel.

Tune in to the “Dancing with the Stars” season 34 premiere tonight at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+.

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