‘Dancing with the Stars’ Judge Pulls Out of Show Just Hours Ahead of Premiere
The excitement surrounding Dancing with the Stars season 34 was met with an unexpected turn when longtime judge Carrie Ann Inaba was forced to sit out of the live season premiere on September 16 due to illness. The veteran judge, who has been with the show since its inception in 2005, made the difficult decision to step away just hours before the highly anticipated broadcast.
Inaba’s Absence Explained
With the show going live, hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough quickly addressed Inaba’s absence to reassure viewers and set the stage for the night’s performances.
“It’s great to have all of you at home joining us in the ballroom and wonderful to see our judges—well, two of them,” Ribeiro said, offering a lighthearted yet reassuring explanation. “Carrie Ann is under the weather and hopes to be back with us next week.”
Hough also shared her support for Inaba, sending a heartfelt message to fans and the ailing judge: “Get well soon, Carrie Ann. We love you.”
The Show Carries On
Inaba’s absence left a seat vacant, but Dancing with the Stars continued without missing a beat. Fellow judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli stepped in to provide their expertise as the celebrity contestants—including Hilaria Baldwin, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, and Danielle Fishel—prepared to perform their debut routines of the season with their pro partners. Despite the unforeseen change, the show proceeded as planned, with the remaining judges offering their valuable insights into the contestants’ performances.
Earlier that day, Inaba had informed the production team and fans via a statement that she would not be able to participate in the season premiere due to illness. Inaba, who is known for her strong rapport with the contestants, expressed her disappointment but remained optimistic about a quick recovery.
I wanted to share that I will not be at the show tonight as I am feeling quite under the weather. I’m resting up and can’t wait to be back next week in good health,” she said in her statement, reassuring fans that her absence would be temporary.
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba will miss tonight’s premiere due to being under the weather. No word on who will take her place on the panel for tonight’s episode. #DWTS pic.twitter.com/UKDvz2SraT
— The DWTS Report (@dwtsreport) September 16, 2025
Looking Ahead to the Season
Though Inaba’s absence was a surprise, Dancing with the Stars fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with impressive routines and emotional moments. With Inaba expected to return next week, the show will continue to captivate viewers with the unique combination of stunning performances, thrilling competition, and expert feedback from the judging panel.
As the season gets underway, it’s clear that Dancing with the Stars remains a powerhouse in the world of live television, adapting quickly to any unforeseen circumstances. The show’s dedicated team, including Inaba’s colleagues Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli, ensured that the premiere went off without a hitch, despite the change in the judging panel. Fans can rest assured that Inaba will be back soon to continue guiding the contestants and contributing to the show’s enduring success.
