Still Stepping Strong: How “Dancing With The Stars” Remains Thriving on Air After 19 Years

With more than 500 epsiodes in the books, "Dancing With The Stars" is a show on mainstream television that has stood the test of time. Photo by Serecki via Wikimedia Commons

Social media has been spinning on its head lately since the premiere of the 33rd season of the hit competition show “Dancing With The Stars.” The new season started off strong on Sept. 17, with 13 celebrity contestants ready to compete for the Mirrorball Trophy.

Some of the stars include two Olympic athletes, Ilona Maher and Stephen Nedoroscik, and two “The Bachelor” franchise stars: Jenn Tran and Joey Graziadei.

“Dancing With The Stars” has been a household name since 2005, and on Nov. 12, the dancers will be paying homage to the celebration of the show’s 500th episode. With reality competition shows going on and off the air for years on end, some may question how this show specifically has stayed strong for so long.

This winning formula could consist of many different parts of the show that make it so favorable. “Dancing With The Stars” combines two beloved elements: celebrities and dance.

Each season, a fresh lineup of stars, from actors to athletes, takes to the ballroom floor, bringing their unique flair and personal stories to the show. This star power not only attracts viewers, but also keeps them invested in the contestants’ journeys, fostering emotional connections that extend beyond the dance floor.

One of the keys to “Dancing With The Stars”’ longevity is its ability to evolve. The series has introduced innovative themes, such as "Disney Night" and "Dedication Night," which not only refresh the format, but also attract different demographics. Additionally, the incorporation of social media has allowed fans to connect with the contestants in real time, further enhancing viewer investment.

As it celebrates its remarkable run, “Dancing With The Stars” has also become a nostalgic favorite for many viewers.

Families gather to watch the show together, creating cherished traditions that span generations. The blend of entertainment, competition and heartfelt stories ensures that audiences remain engaged and eager for each new season.

“Some of my fondest memories with my family are me, my mom and my sister curling up on the couch every Tuesday and watching ‘Dancing With the Stars,’” said Marlo Ferrante ‘28, a dancer here on campus. “It gave us an opportunity to bond over something we all love, dancing.”

This season has gained a lot of traction on social media due to the many fan favorites dancing this year.

During “Disney Night,” the sixth episode of the season, host Alfonso Ribeiro revealed that the online votes for the dancers hit an all-time record of 16 million. Every Tuesday night, social media platforms blow up with comments on dances, scores and ultimately, if people agree with the elimination of the night or not.

Even with the changing of hosts, co-hosts and judges, the show still remains to be a very popular show amongst the media.