Dancing with the Stars, the popular reality TV dance competition, has been a staple on American television for over 15 years. The show, which premiered on June 1, 2005, has become a household name, entertaining audiences with its unique blend of music, dance, and celebrity charm. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the history of Dancing with the Stars, highlighting its evolution, notable moments, and what makes it a beloved favorite among TV viewers.
The Concept and Early Years
Dancing with the Stars is based on the British TV series Strictly Come Dancing, which was first broadcast in 2004. The concept of the show is simple: pair a celebrity with a professional dancer, and have them compete against other couples in a dance-off. The show’s format, which combines elements of dance, music, and competition, was an instant hit with audiences.
The first season of Dancing with the Stars premiered on June 1, 2005, on ABC, with a lineup of six celebrity contestants, including Trista Sutter, Evander Holyfield, and Rachel Hunter. The show was hosted by Tom Bergeron and Lisa Canning, with a judging panel consisting of Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, and Carrie Ann Inaba.
Season 1: A Modest Beginning
The first season of Dancing with the Stars was a modest success, with an average of 9.2 million viewers per episode. The show’s finale, which aired on July 6, 2005, drew 10.1 million viewers, with Kelly Monaco and her partner Alec Mazo crowned the winners.
Despite its modest ratings, the show’s first season laid the groundwork for its future success. The show’s format, which combined elements of dance, music, and competition, was well-received by audiences, and the chemistry between the hosts and judges was undeniable.
The Rise to Fame
Over the next few seasons, Dancing with the Stars continued to gain popularity, with its ratings increasing steadily. The show’s second season, which premiered in 2006, saw a significant increase in viewership, with an average of 13.1 million viewers per episode.
The show’s third season, which aired in 2006, was a major turning point for the series. The season’s finale, which drew 17.4 million viewers, was the highest-rated episode of the series at the time. The show’s success was fueled by the popularity of its contestants, including Mario Lopez, Emmitt Smith, and Joey Fatone.
Notable Moments and Milestones
Over the years, Dancing with the Stars has had its fair share of notable moments and milestones. One of the most memorable moments in the show’s history was the performance of Apolo Anton Ohno and his partner Julianne Hough in season 4. Their energetic and charismatic performance to the song “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley earned them a perfect score and cemented their place in the show’s history.
Another notable moment was the appearance of Michael Jackson’s sister, La Toya Jackson, in season 7. Her performance to the song “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” was a highlight of the season, and her partnership with professional dancer Gev Manoukian was a fan favorite.
Season Highlights
| Season | Premiere Date | Finale Date | Winner |
| — | — | — | — |
| 1 | June 1, 2005 | July 6, 2005 | Kelly Monaco |
| 2 | January 5, 2006 | February 24, 2006 | Drew Lachey |
| 3 | September 12, 2006 | November 15, 2006 | Emmitt Smith |
| 4 | March 19, 2007 | May 22, 2007 | Apolo Anton Ohno |
| 5 | September 24, 2007 | November 27, 2007 | Helio Castroneves |
The Evolution of the Show
Over the years, Dancing with the Stars has undergone several changes, including the addition of new hosts, judges, and contestants. In 2010, Brooke Burke-Charvet replaced Samantha Harris as the show’s co-host, and in 2014, Erin Andrews replaced Brooke Burke-Charvet.
The show has also seen several changes to its judging panel, including the addition of Julianne Hough and Maksim Chmerkovskiy as guest judges. In 2019, the show introduced a new judging system, which allows viewers to vote for their favorite contestants online.
Special Episodes and Spin-Offs
Dancing with the Stars has also aired several special episodes and spin-offs over the years, including Dancing with the Stars: Juniors, which premiered in 2018. The show, which features a lineup of celebrity contestants under the age of 18, was a major success, with an average of 7.3 million viewers per episode.
The show has also aired several themed episodes, including a Disney-themed episode in 2019, which featured a lineup of Disney-themed dances and costumes.
Special Episodes
- Dancing with the Stars: Juniors (2018)
- Dancing with the Stars: Athletes (2018)
- Dancing with the Stars: Disney Night (2019)
Impact and Legacy
Dancing with the Stars has had a significant impact on popular culture, with its influence extending beyond the world of dance and entertainment. The show has inspired a new generation of dancers and has helped to popularize various styles of dance, including ballroom and Latin.
The show has also raised millions of dollars for charity, with several contestants and winners donating their winnings to various causes. In 2019, the show raised over $1 million for the American Red Cross, with several contestants and winners donating their winnings to the organization.
Awards and Accolades
Dancing with the Stars has won several awards and accolades over the years, including several Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe nomination. The show has also been named one of the most-watched TV shows in the United States, with over 20 million viewers tuning in to its finale in 2019.
Awards and Accolades
- Emmy Awards (2006, 2007, 2008)
- Golden Globe nomination (2006)
- People’s Choice Awards (2007, 2008, 2009)
Conclusion
Dancing with the Stars has come a long way since its premiere in 2005. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a household name, the show has entertained audiences with its unique blend of music, dance, and celebrity charm. With its evolution, notable moments, and impact on popular culture, Dancing with the Stars is a true TV phenomenon that will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
What is Dancing with the Stars?
Dancing with the Stars is a popular American dance competition television series that premiered on June 1, 2005. The show is based on the British series Strictly Come Dancing and features a mix of celebrity contestants paired with professional dancers competing against each other. The show’s format involves a combination of ballroom and Latin dance styles, with contestants performing a new routine each week.
The show’s success can be attributed to its unique blend of entertainment, competition, and heartwarming moments. Over the years, Dancing with the Stars has become a staple of American television, with a loyal fan base and a reputation for launching the careers of its professional dancers. The show has also been praised for its ability to bring people together, with contestants from diverse backgrounds and industries coming together to share their passion for dance.
Who are some of the most successful contestants on Dancing with the Stars?
Some of the most successful contestants on Dancing with the Stars include Kelly Monaco, who won the first season in 2005, and Drew Lachey, who won season 2 in 2006. Other notable winners include Emmitt Smith, Apolo Anton Ohno, and Meryl Davis, who all went on to win the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. In addition to these winners, contestants like Bristol Palin, Rob Kardashian, and Zendaya have also had successful runs on the show.
These contestants have not only won the competition but have also gone on to achieve success in their respective careers. Many have gone on to pursue careers in entertainment, while others have used their platform to raise awareness for social causes. The show’s success can be attributed to the talent and dedication of its contestants, who have made the show a household name.
What is the format of Dancing with the Stars?
The format of Dancing with the Stars involves a group of celebrity contestants paired with professional dancers competing against each other. Each week, the contestants perform a new routine in a different dance style, with a panel of judges scoring their performances. The contestants with the lowest scores are eliminated each week, with the last couple standing winning the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
The show’s format has remained relatively consistent over the years, with some tweaks and changes made to keep the show fresh and exciting. The show’s judges, including Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli, have become household names, and their feedback and critiques are highly anticipated by fans. The show’s hosts, including Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews, have also become an integral part of the show’s format.
How has Dancing with the Stars impacted popular culture?
Dancing with the Stars has had a significant impact on popular culture, with the show’s influence extending beyond the world of dance. The show has launched the careers of its professional dancers, including Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Derek Hough, and Julianne Hough, who have all gone on to achieve success in the entertainment industry. The show has also been referenced and parodied in numerous TV shows and films, including Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons.
The show’s impact can also be seen in the world of fashion, with the show’s costumes and choreography influencing dance and fashion trends. The show’s music has also been featured in numerous films and TV shows, with the show’s soundtrack becoming a staple of American pop culture. Overall, Dancing with the Stars has become a cultural phenomenon, with its influence extending far beyond the world of dance.
What is the significance of the Mirrorball Trophy?
The Mirrorball Trophy is the coveted prize awarded to the winner of Dancing with the Stars. The trophy is a symbol of excellence and achievement, representing the hard work and dedication of the contestants who compete on the show. The trophy has become an iconic symbol of the show, with contestants and fans alike eagerly anticipating its presentation at the end of each season.
The Mirrorball Trophy has also become a symbol of the show’s legacy, with past winners proudly displaying their trophies as a reminder of their achievement. The trophy has also been featured in numerous TV shows and films, including The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Overall, the Mirrorball Trophy is a beloved and iconic symbol of Dancing with the Stars, representing the show’s commitment to excellence and entertainment.
How has Dancing with the Stars evolved over the years?
Dancing with the Stars has evolved significantly over the years, with the show’s format and style changing to keep up with the times. The show has introduced new dance styles and themes, including contemporary and hip-hop, and has featured a diverse range of contestants from different backgrounds and industries. The show has also expanded its reach, with the show’s live tour and spin-offs, including Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and Dancing with the Stars: Athletes.
The show has also become more interactive, with fans able to vote for their favorite contestants and influence the outcome of the competition. The show’s social media presence has also grown, with the show’s official accounts featuring behind-the-scenes footage and exclusive content. Overall, Dancing with the Stars has continued to evolve and adapt, remaining a staple of American television and a beloved favorite among fans.
What is the future of Dancing with the Stars?
The future of Dancing with the Stars looks bright, with the show continuing to attract a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. The show has been renewed for numerous seasons, with new contestants and themes already announced. The show’s live tour and spin-offs are also expected to continue, with the show’s brand expanding into new areas, including merchandise and digital content.
The show’s future is also expected to involve more interactive elements, with fans able to influence the competition and engage with the show’s contestants and judges in new and innovative ways. The show’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is also expected to continue, with the show featuring a diverse range of contestants and themes. Overall, the future of Dancing with the Stars looks exciting and promising, with the show continuing to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.