Celebrating a Decade-Long Return to Emmy Recognition

A Triumphant Return to the Emmy Spotlight for "Dancing With the Stars"

After a ten-year absence, the popular television program "Dancing With the Stars" has triumphantly re-entered the Emmy race, securing a nomination in the highly coveted reality competition series category. This marks a significant achievement for the show, which has consistently been a fan favorite, captivating audiences with its blend of dance, celebrity, and dramatic flair.

The Executive Team's Deep Appreciation for Industry Recognition

Conrad Green, the showrunner for "Dancing With the Stars," conveyed immense honor and gratitude on behalf of the production team. He highlighted the relentless dedication and hard work of everyone involved, from the behind-the-scenes crew to the on-screen talent, in crafting a show that consistently delivers high-quality entertainment. The executive producer and casting director, Deena Katz, echoed these sentiments, expressing deep appreciation to the Television Academy, the cast, crew, and the loyal fanbase whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the show's journey and its recent commendation.

Dancers and Hosts Share Their Overwhelming Joy

The news of the Emmy nomination was met with widespread jubilation among the professional dancers and hosts. Alan Bersten, a prominent figure in the show's dance ensemble, articulated his excitement on social media, emphasizing the long-overdue recognition for the program's unique contribution to television. Witney Carson, a past Mirrorball champion, lauded the show for its positive influence, promoting unity, camaraderie, and joy among families. Similarly, Britt Stewart expressed immense pride in being part of the "Dancing With the Stars" family, highlighting the show's enduring quality. Judges Derek Hough and Julianne Hough also celebrated this milestone, acknowledging the collective effort and passion that drives the show. Even former long-time host Tom Bergeron joined in the celebration, offering a hearty "Bravo!" to the team.

Beyond the Main Category: A Multitude of Emmy Nominations

The success of "Dancing With the Stars" extends beyond its nomination for best reality competition series. The show garnered a total of five Emmy nominations in 2026, including accolades for makeup, hairstyling, technical direction/camerawork, and lighting design. These additional nominations underscore the show's excellence across various technical and artistic aspects, showcasing the comprehensive talent involved in its production. The announcement also hinted at the upcoming spinoff, "The Next Pro," which will discover a new professional dancer for Season 35.

Anticipation for the 78th Emmy Awards Ceremony

As the 78th Emmy Awards approach, "Dancing With the Stars" is set to compete against other formidable reality competition series such as "RuPaul's Drag Race," "Survivor," "Top Chef," and "The Traitors." The awards ceremony, hosted by Mariska Hargitay, will be broadcast live on Monday, September 14, on NBC and available for streaming on Peacock, where the television community will gather to celebrate the year's outstanding achievements.