In a stunning move heard round the reality TV world, ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” has announced it is moving to Disney+, with a two season order.
I had to double-check to make sure this wasn’t an April 1 news release, but it appears it’s true.
After 30 seasons in 16 years on free broadcast network ABC, the hit reality competition show will premiere exclusively in the U.S. and Canada this fall on Disney+, marking the first live series to debut on the streaming service.
“Dancing with the Stars” first premiered on ABC in 2005 and has grown into an international phenomena, with spin-offs in many countries.
During its recent Fall 2021 run, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” still ranked among the Top 5 unscripted series with Adults 18-49.
This announcement is a very bold move, considering the show’s many fans will now need to have a Disney+ subscription to see seasons 31 and 32.
“’Dancing with the Stars’ has been a beloved staple on ABC for 30 seasons and brought so much joy to millions of viewers,” said Dana Walden, Chairman of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television. “As we’re significantly expanding our unscripted slate at ABC, this is a great opportunity to introduce this show to a whole new generation of fans on Disney+.”
The Disney-owned ABC says that NFL football is part of its plans for the Monday 8-10pm slot on the fall schedule that has been occupied by DWTS for the past 15 years.
As part of ESPN’s Monday Night Football contract, ABC will exclusively air an additional MNF game in 2022, which will expand to three in 2023.
“After over 30 seasons of the program on ABC, including two spin-offs, ‘Dancing with the Stars’ will move off of ABC this fall in order for the Network to showcase several Monday Night Football games as well as develop and invest in new and future programming,” said the network in a press statement.
It is unknown if current host Tyra Banks, or any of the judges or dancers will remain with the show in its move to Disney+. As soon as I hear something, I’ll let you know.
If you’re a “Dancing With the Stars” fan, will you follow the show to Disney+? How do you feel about the show being bumped off ABC for football? Let us know in the comments.
I am beyond angry and pissed….I have watched this show every season since it started…I can’t afford Disney+ or the kind of TV that gets streaming…things like cancer bills….food….meds….living expenses bills…..mean I can’t ever do this.
Disney has made it impossible for those of us who arent wealthy to enjoy something so simple….widening the rift between the haves and have nots
And guess what Disney? I NEVER watch football….so I won’t be watching ABC Monday nights when you put foot ball there….
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