‘DWTS’ cast sparks fresh unfairness buzz

DWTS hit with fresh controversy.

According to Radar Online, Dancing With The Stars’ season 35 is facing fresh behind the scenes drama as most of the season 35’s contestants have past dance experience.

It is worth noting here that the dance competition’s latest season was first premiered on September 15, 2026 on ABC and Disney.

A source revealed to the outlet, "Everyone connected to the show is used to some level of drama, that goes with the territory and is even encouraged to some degree."

It continued, "But the level of acrimony going into this season is already sky high and it's pretty unprecedented to see a big chunk of the talent so openly resentful and upset even before the cameras start rolling."

For those unaware, season 35 features 16 celebrity contestants including, Conner Leavitt, Sarah Jane Nader, Giada De Laurentiis, Tatyana Ali, Tyler Cameron, Jenna Dewan, Ezra Frech, Amber Glenn, Taylor Hanson, Maura Higgins, Ciara Miller, Jackson Olson, Guillermo Rodriguez, Harry Shum Jr., Julia Stiles, and Connor Wood.

However, the latest season’s casting choice has raised many questions, one source said that "Jenna is a very controversial pick, obviously, given her pro dancing background."

Noting, "It smacks a lot of people of a total disadvantage. How on earth are they supposed to compete with that?"

Speaking with Entertainment Tonight Jenna spoke out against criticism, saying, "Let's be clear. It's two different languages."

She went on to say, "There's parts of my dance training that's helpful, obviously. I've learned choreography. I can perform, but there is a certain sense of unlearning for me. It's a new technique, brand-new technique... It's not like you're giving me a style that I've done – I can go out there and do that."

"It has its advantages, but it also has its challenges. But that was part of why I wanted to do it. I really wanted to challenge myself," Jenna added at the time.

While Julia told EW that "I'm a home dancer. I love dancing at home and part of my reason for coming on this show is to, like, find the joy in dance again, find my confidence in dance again."

A source claimed, "Julia is keen to try and swerve any controversy and criticism as best she can, which is a big reason why she shared that detail."

"She just wants to do her thing and stay away from the drama, so it's a clever move on her part," it added.

Moreover, another source noted that the contestant, Maura's friendship with the judge, Bruno is also drawing attention. "The fact that Maura is so obviously cozy with Bruno is another big talking point."

Adding, "Even if they deny that their friendship affects his judgment, it's not stopped the widespread consensus that she's clearly trying – and likely succeeding – to butter him up.”

As Maura is paired on the show with the pro dancer, Mark Ballas, the source noted that it is giving another reason to question the fairness of the show, stating, "That's another unfair advantage, as a lot of people see it."

"They're saying it's a pairing that shouldn't have been allowed," it further added.