When Dancing With the Stars Season 34 launched on ABC and streamed simultaneously on Disney+ on September 16, 2025, it drew 5.38 million viewers and a 1.1 rating among adults 18‑49. The live‑plus‑same‑day numbers were bolstered by next‑day streams on Hulu. The judging trio – Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli – kept the scores tight, while guest judge Jon M. Chu would later spice up a themed night. The surge mattered because it signaled a rare upside for a long‑running reality franchise in a streaming‑first world.
The Ratings Surge Explained
Historically, Dancing With the Stars has hovered around a 0.7 rating in the coveted 18‑49 demo. Season 33, for example, averaged a 0.73 rating and 4.88 million viewers. Season 34, however, cracked the 1.0 barrier twice and climbed to a 1.26 rating during the October 14 "Dedication Night" episode. That night also logged the series’ highest 18‑34 rating – 1.53 – the strongest in nearly a decade, since a November 2015 telecast.
Why the jump? A combination of savvy themed evenings, social‑media tie‑ins, and a refreshed contestant roster that leans heavily on Gen‑Z personalities. The "TikTok Night" on September 30, for instance, gave the show a fresh digital vibe that attracted 5.82 million viewers, a 7% lift from the previous week’s "One‑Hit Wonders Night".
Week‑by‑Week Viewership Trail
- Sept 16 (Premiere): 5.38 M viewers, 1.1 rating (18‑49)
- Sept 23 (One‑Hit Wonders Night): 5.46 M viewers, 1.0 rating
- Sept 30 (TikTok Night): 5.82 M viewers, 1.2 rating
- Oct 7 (Disney Night): 5.88 M viewers, 1.3 rating
- Oct 14 (Dedication Night): 5.98 M viewers, 1.26 rating (18‑34: 1.53)
Each consecutive week outperformed the last – the first time in twenty years that the series registered two weeks of growth straight after its debut, let alone a four‑week upward streak.
Cast, Judges and Guest Appearances
The current lineup of ten celebrities includes Jen Affleck, Whitney Leavitt, Jordan Chiles, Alix Earle, Dylan Efron, Danielle Fishel, Elaine Hendrix, Scott Hoying, Robert Irwin and Andy Richter. Hilaria Baldwin bowed out after the previous episode.
Fan voting peaked at a staggering 50.15 million votes during "Dedication Night," an all‑time high for the series. The judges’ scores were tight, but the fan vote proved decisive, feeding the narrative that younger audiences are not just watching – they’re actively voting.
What the Numbers Mean for the Franchise
From a business standpoint, the uptick gives ABC and its streaming partners a lever to negotiate better ad rates and cross‑promo deals. Advertisers targeting 18‑34 viewers – think tech brands, fast‑fashion retailers, and streaming services – now have a proven runway on a traditionally older‑skewing show.
For the producers, BBC Studios (the production house) can tout the "record‑breaking" label when selling format licenses overseas. The success may also influence future casting decisions, encouraging a tilt toward social‑media influencers and younger celebrities.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Themed Nights and Finale Outlook
Next up is "Wicked Night" on October 21, where director‑turn‑judge Jon M. Chu will sit on the panel and the contestants will dance to songs from the "Wicked" film franchise. October 28 brings "Halloween Night," followed by a "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame" episode on November 4, a "20th Birthday Party" on November 11, and a "Prince Night" semifinal on November 18. The grand finale airs November 25.
The ratings trajectory suggests that the finale could eclipse the 6‑million‑viewer mark, especially if the voting momentum holds. Should the numbers stay this high, ABC may renew the series for a 35th season earlier than usual – though as of October 22, 2025, no official word has been given.
Key Facts
- Premiere date: September 16, 2025 (ABC & Disney+)
- Highest‑rated episode: October 14 "Dedication Night" – 5.98 M viewers, 1.26 rating (18‑49) and 1.53 rating (18‑34)
- Fan votes cast on peak night: 50.15 million
- Judging panel: Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli (guest Jon M. Chu on Oct 21)
- Production company: BBC Studios
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Season 34 see higher ratings than previous years?
The boost stems from a mix of youth‑friendly themes like TikTok Night, a contestant roster heavy on Gen‑Z personalities, and aggressive social‑media promotion. Those factors attracted a larger 18‑34 audience, which in turn lifted overall numbers.
Which episode set the record for fan voting?
"Dedication Night" on October 14, 2025, broke the series’ voting record with 50.15 million votes, outpacing the previous high by more than 12 million.
How does the 18‑34 rating compare to the show's history?
The 1.53 rating on Dedication Night is the strongest the series has posted in the 18‑34 demo since November 23, 2015, marking a near‑decade‑long high point.
What impact might these numbers have on future seasons?
Advertisers are likely to pay premium rates, giving ABC more leverage for renewal talks. The success also encourages producers to keep younger talent and digital‑first themes in the mix for upcoming seasons.
When is the final episode scheduled to air?
The season wraps on November 25, 2025, with a two‑hour live finale that will feature the remaining ten celebrities and a surprise guest performance.