The iconic ballroom of Dancing With the Stars recently shimmered with an extra layer of history and emotion as the long-running reality competition celebrated its monumental 20th anniversary. Tasked with choreographing the pivotal opening number for this landmark occasion was none other than Derek Hough, a figure intrinsically linked to the show’s legacy, having evolved from a record-setting professional dancer to a respected judge and now, a co-host. The "birthday party-themed" episode was designed not merely to look back at two decades of glitz and gravity-defying moves but also to strategically set the stage for the show’s vibrant future.
The Genesis of a Ballroom Phenomenon: Dancing With the Stars Through the Decades
Dancing With the Stars first pirouetted onto American screens in June 2005, a localized adaptation of the hugely successful British series Strictly Come Dancing. From its inception, the premise captivated audiences: pair celebrities with professional ballroom dancers, train them intensely, and have them compete in front of a panel of judges and a voting public. This simple yet compelling formula quickly turned into a cultural phenomenon, bringing ballroom dancing into millions of homes and sparking a renewed interest in the art form across the United States.
Over its initial two seasons, DWTS established its core identity, featuring hosts Tom Bergeron and Lisa Canning (later replaced by Samantha Harris, then Brooke Burke-Charvet, and Erin Andrews), alongside a judging panel that became legendary: Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, and Carrie Ann Inaba. The show’s ability to attract a diverse array of celebrities—from athletes and actors to politicians and socialites—ensured a broad appeal, consistently drawing significant viewership numbers for ABC. Its early years saw fierce competition and memorable performances, laying the groundwork for what would become an enduring fixture in American television. The show’s consistent performance led to numerous Emmy nominations, including multiple wins for Outstanding Reality Competition Program, cementing its status as a critical and commercial success.
Derek Hough’s Indelible Mark on DWTS
Derek Hough’s journey with Dancing With the Stars began in 2007, marking his debut as a professional dancer in Season 5. His impact was immediate and profound. Known for his innovative choreography, unparalleled showmanship, and ability to elevate his celebrity partners, Hough quickly became the most decorated professional dancer in the show’s history, securing an astonishing six Mirrorball Trophies. His partnerships with stars like Brooke Burke, Nicole Scherzinger, Jennifer Grey, Kellie Pickler, Amber Riley, and Bindi Irwin resulted in some of the series’ most iconic routines, pushing the boundaries of ballroom and Latin dance within the competition format. Beyond his competitive success, Hough earned multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Choreography, solidifying his reputation as a visionary in the dance world.
After a hiatus following Season 23, Hough returned to the DWTS family, first as a judge in 2020, and subsequently transitioning into a co-hosting role. This unique trajectory—from competitive dancer to arbiter of talent to guiding presence—placed him in an unparalleled position to understand and honor the show’s complete journey. His intimate knowledge of the show’s mechanics, its emotional core, and its historical milestones made him the natural choice to craft a tribute that would resonate deeply with both long-time fans and newer viewers.
The 20th Anniversary Choreographic Challenge: Bridging Eras
Hough’s assignment was multifaceted: to create an opening number that not only celebrated the show’s past but also signaled its future, embodying the concept of "passing the torch." He articulated this vision clearly, stating, "It was really important to [embody] this idea of passing the torch from the pros that really began this all to this new cast of dancers." This philosophy guided the entire performance, which became a meticulously crafted narrative of continuity and evolution.
The sequence began with a powerful symbolic gesture: the return of the original professional dancers from the show’s inaugural Season 1. Edyta Sliwinska, Ashly DelGrosso, Louis van Amstel, Jonathan Roberts, Charlotte Jorgensen, and Alec Mazo stepped back onto the ballroom floor, eliciting cheers and a flood of nostalgic memories from the audience. These pioneers, who helped define the show’s initial aesthetic and competitive spirit, introduced the grand anniversary performance, physically embodying the "torchbearers" of DWTS‘s rich history. Their presence underscored the deep roots of the competition and the enduring community it has fostered among its cast and crew.
A Symphony of Styles: The Remixed Theme Song
Central to Hough’s creative vision for the number was the show’s iconic theme song. "The theme song is the one constant that’s been a throughline of all these seasons," Hough explained. "So I thought, ‘Why don’t we dance to the theme song? But let’s mix it up and honor the different genres and styles that Dancing With the Stars showcases.’" This innovative approach resulted in a remixed version of the familiar tune, allowing for dynamic shifts between varying dance styles—from the elegant waltz and passionate tango to the energetic jive and intricate paso doble. This segment served as a vivid demonstration of the show’s commitment to showcasing the breadth and beauty of ballroom and Latin dance, a core tenet that has remained constant for two decades. The seamless transitions between styles, performed by current professional dancers, highlighted their versatility and the show’s continued dedication to high-caliber dance artistry.
An Emotional Interlude: The Len Goodman Tribute
Perhaps the most poignant moment of the anniversary celebration was the heartfelt tribute to the late head judge, Len Goodman. Goodman, a beloved figure known for his candid critiques, signature "Seven!" paddle, and "pickle my walnuts" exclamations, served as a judge from the show’s debut in 2005 until his retirement in 2022, shortly before his passing. His absence left an undeniable void in the ballroom, and the anniversary episode sought to honor his indelible legacy.
The tribute was choreographed with profound sensitivity. It featured professional dancers Ezra Sosa and Rylee Arnold, performing a graceful, somber routine. A spotlight illuminated Goodman’s traditionally empty seat at the judges’ table, a powerful visual metaphor for his enduring presence and the respect he commanded. Paired ballroom dancers, clad in elegant white gowns and classic tuxedos, glided across the floor to an instrumental rendition of Lady Gaga’s "Always Remember Us This Way." The song choice, renowned for its emotional depth and themes of remembrance, perfectly encapsulated the sentiment of loss and enduring affection for Goodman. The segment was a masterclass in emotional storytelling through dance, allowing both the cast and the audience to collectively mourn and celebrate a man who was, for many, the very heart of the judging panel.
The Surprise Return of a Beloved Host: Tom Bergeron
Following the tender tribute to Len Goodman, the atmosphere in the ballroom shifted to anticipation, perfectly orchestrated for a major reveal. Derek Hough described his thought process: "The very first thing that came to my mind was Tom Bergeron. When I knew that he was coming back, I was like, ‘There has to be a moment within the number where there’s a reveal of him, and it needs to be the right setup to lead him into this moment.’"
That "right setup" was precisely the emotional resonance generated by the Goodman tribute. As Hough explained, "The way I described it was this moment where we’re thinking of Len and we’re thinking of this beautiful ballroom show, and then there’s this figure that walks through that’s backlit with smoke, and we’re not sure who it is, because we’re in our Len feelings, and then we see Tom." The deliberate suspense, built upon a foundation of shared emotion, culminated in the stunning return of Tom Bergeron.
Bergeron, who co-hosted Dancing With the Stars from its premiere in 2005 until 2019, was an integral part of the show’s identity. His quick wit, empathetic interviewing style, and effortless chemistry with his co-hosts and contestants made him a fan favorite. His unexpected departure, alongside co-host Erin Andrews, had been met with significant fan disappointment. His return for the 20th anniversary was a monumental surprise, drawing thunderous applause and an outpouring of emotion from the live audience and viewers alike. His presence not only celebrated the show’s history but also offered a moment of cherished reunion, underscoring the deep connections forged within the DWTS family over two decades.
The Broader Impact and Enduring Legacy of Dancing With the Stars
The 20th-anniversary celebration served as a powerful reminder of Dancing With the Stars‘ significant cultural footprint. Over its 34 completed seasons, the show has transcended mere entertainment, becoming a platform that has:
- Revitalized Ballroom Dance: Introducing complex dance styles to a mainstream audience and inspiring countless individuals to take up dancing.
- Redefined Celebrity Status: Offering a unique second act or an unexpected spotlight for celebrities from various fields.
- Pioneered Reality Competition: Setting a standard for high-production value, emotional storytelling, and genuine skill development within the reality genre.
- Fostered Inclusivity: Showcasing dancers of all ages, backgrounds, and physical abilities, including groundbreaking performances by deaf contestants and those with physical disabilities, demonstrating the universal appeal of dance.
The show’s ability to adapt and evolve has been key to its longevity. It successfully navigated a network transition from ABC to Disney+ in 2022, becoming the first live-streamed competition series on the platform, before returning to a simulcast model on both ABC and Disney+ for its most recent seasons. This flexibility demonstrates the network’s confidence in the show’s continued relevance and viewership appeal, even in a rapidly changing media landscape. The anniversary special itself was a testament to the production team’s commitment to creating engaging, high-quality television that respects its past while embracing innovation.
Looking Ahead: Season 35 and Beyond
With the 34th season now concluded, anticipation is already building for the upcoming 35th installment of Dancing With the Stars, another significant landmark in its remarkable run. While it remains unclear if future seasons will feature similar large-scale anniversary celebrations, Derek Hough is admittedly "excited" about the plans currently shaping up.
Hough offered tantalizing glimpses into what viewers can expect, teasing, "We have a really good cast. There are some people that I know are waiting in the wings. I’ve been told some of the people that are going to be on the next season. It’s going to be a great one." This preview suggests that the show’s talent scouts are continuing their tradition of securing compelling celebrity contestants, a crucial element for a successful season.
He further elaborated on the current positive trajectory of the show, stating, "We’re having this momentum from the past two seasons. The celebrities are so excited to be on the show, to dance, to compete, to really get the full experience, and that dynamic of a celebrity who is wanting [to win] and really embracing it, that’s what creates great seasons." This insight highlights a vital ingredient in the DWTS formula: the genuine enthusiasm and commitment of its celebrity participants. When stars are fully invested in the grueling training, the artistic challenge, and the competitive spirit, the show thrives, producing captivating narratives and breathtaking performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
The 20th-anniversary celebration, meticulously crafted by Derek Hough, was more than just a dance number; it was a comprehensive narrative that honored the show’s foundational elements, paid tribute to its beloved figures, and confidently pointed towards a future where Dancing With the Stars continues to captivate, entertain, and inspire millions. As the ballroom doors prepare to open for its 35th season, the enduring appeal of sequins, spins, and heartfelt performances remains as strong as ever, promising many more years of magic on the dance floor.
