Derek Hough Teases ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Season 35 Following Show’s 20th Anniversary Tribute

Derek Hough said he is looking ahead to Dancing With the Stars Season 35 after the show marked a major milestone with a 20th anniversary tribute, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Speaking as the long-running ballroom competition continues into its next phase, Hough framed the milestone as a springboard for what comes next, while indicating that preparations for the next chapter are already underway.

Hough’s comments came in the context of ABC’s broader run of recent episodes, where the series has delivered “back-to-back strong seasons,” the report says. The professional dancer and judge told the outlet that the show’s next cast is taking shape, with the goal of creating another season that stands out with a mix of performers.

Rather than focusing on any specific pairing or schedule detail, the report centers on Hough’s preview of the production process and the emphasis on cast assembly. He described the period after a major anniversary tribute as a time when the show transitions into recruiting and finalizing the new lineup, with creative work continuing in parallel with casting.

The 20th anniversary tribute referenced by Hough reflects the program’s effort to mark two decades on television with an event designed to recognize the show’s history and legacy of performances. In that context, Hough’s “tease” of Season 35 indicates continuity in the series’ approach, using the anniversary run as a bridge to new episodes rather than a standalone one-off.

The Hollywood Reporter also ties the next-season outlook to the show’s momentum in the competition landscape. Hough’s remarks suggest the producers are treating the current stage of the franchise as an opportunity to maintain audience engagement by keeping the cast and production energy aligned with what has worked in recent seasons.

No premiere date, cast names, or partner assignments were included in the reporting described by The Hollywood Reporter in the item provided. As the network and production team continue to build Season 35, the next publicly confirmed steps are expected to come through official ABC announcements and cast reveal communications.

For viewers and families following the program, the shift to Season 35 means the usual period of public anticipation for celebrity participants and professional pairings, along with the standard rollout of promotional materials once the lineup is finalized. For the performers involved, the announcement stage also typically indicates when rehearsals and creative planning move from early scheduling into full season preparation.

Until ABC or the show’s official channels publish a complete cast list and an air date, the most concrete development in the item provided is Hough’s confirmation that preparations for Season 35 are in progress and that the series is moving forward after its 20th anniversary tribute.