ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" is such a popular competition show that even when it is not on the air, there is still news about it. Season 24 premieres on March 20, 2017. That's several weeks away, but it's not keeping fans from speculating about the upcoming season. A judge and professional dancers are submitting their wish lists. Because the premiere marks the 400th episode, Executive Producer Rob Wade is promising a breath-taking show with lots of surprises to celebrate that milestone. Wade said he is halfway through the list of Celebrities who will compete.
Names on wish list
Judge Carrie Anne Inaba's wish list includes singers Bruno Mars, Ne-Yo and Pitbull. Usher was rumored to be a contestant, but he spoke out and said he will not be a contestant. People have suggested that Billy Bush should return to television to redeem himself like Ryan Lochte did last season. Professional dancer Emma Slater tweeted three celebrities she would love to dance with. They include Barry Weiss, Russell Brand, and Jonathan Scott. Drew Scott tweeted that he was interested in dancing with Emma.
The finale of "The Bachelor" comes one week before the premiere of "Dancing With The Stars." Bachelor Nick Viall has expressed an interest to become a contestant. Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles has also stated an interest in competing.
Her colleague gymnast, Laurie Hernandez, won last season's Mirrorball Trophy with partner Val Chmerkovskiy.
Which pros will return?
Most of the Season 23 cast will return for Season 24. Cheryl Burke will return, and she wants to dance with Blake Shelton. Derek Hough will not return because he will be busy working on other projects.
His friend, Mark Ballas, will return after being out last season. He will return as a married man. Peta Murgatroyd and Maksim Chmerkovskiy welcomed a baby boy on January 4. They will be on diaper duty and will not return. Executive Producer Deena Katz said her list contains over 50 celebrities to choose from. Jane Fonda is on her wish list. Fonda would be the oldest contestant at 79. Cloris Leachman was 82 when she competed.
Are you a fan of "Dancing with the Stars"? If so, will you be glad when the show returns on March 20?
