Ballroom Eras collide as Jan Ravnik, celebrated for his dynamic performances as a backup dancer on Taylor Swift’s monumental Eras Tour, transitions to the ballroom stage. In a surprising announcement made live on Good Morning America on Thursday, August 28, 2025, Ravnik was revealed as the latest professional dancer to join the cast of Dancing with the Stars for its 34th season. This marks a significant shift for the Slovenian dancer, from electrifying stadium crowds to the competitive world of ballroom dancing, a move anticipated to bring a fresh wave of energy and fans to the long-running show.
Jan Ravnik’s Star Turn
From Eras Tour to Ballroom Floor
Jan Ravnik’s journey to Dancing with the Stars is paved with impressive credentials. While his recent fame stems from his integral role in Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour (March 2023 to December 2024), where his “Lavender Haze” performance became a viral sensation, Ravnik’s dance career extends far beyond. According to EntertainmentNow, Ravnik has also shared the stage with other music titans, including Mariah Carey, Paula Abdul (during her Las Vegas residency and at the Billboard Music Awards), and Bruno Mars. This diverse experience showcases his versatility and readiness for the challenges of Dancing with the Stars.
The Announcement and Key Players
The announcement of Ravnik’s participation was orchestrated by ABC, the network broadcasting Dancing with the Stars, during a segment on Good Morning America. As reported by PEOPLE, the 34th season will see the return of esteemed judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough, ensuring continuity in the judging panel. Hosting duties will be shared by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, adding familiar faces to the show’s presentation. TheWrap confirms that the celebrity contestant lineup includes notable personalities such as Australian TV personality Robert Irwin, social media influencer Alix Earle, and stars from “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt, with Hilaria Baldwin also in the mix. The full celebrity roster will be revealed on September 3rd, according to TV Insider.
Impact and Expectations
Why This Matters
The decision to bring Jan Ravnik onto Dancing with the Stars appears to be a strategic one, aiming to attract a younger demographic and capitalize on the immense popularity he gained during the Eras Tour. MyCentralOregon.com suggests that his captivating stage presence and “heartthrob” status within the “Swiftie” community are expected to draw a new audience to the show. Beyond the recent surge in fame, Ravnik’s extensive background as a dancer, marked by multiple National, European, and World dance champion titles, establishes his credibility as a serious contender, says USA Today.
Initial Reactions and Speculation
Ravnik’s arrival has already generated significant buzz among both dedicated Dancing with the Stars enthusiasts and Taylor Swift fans. Extra TV highlights the excitement surrounding the announcement, quoting Ravnik’s recorded message: “I traveled all around the world with Eras Tour, and now I’m coming to the ballroom stage for Dancing with the Stars. Mirrorball never goes out of style, and we are ready to win it.” CinemaBlend notes that the identity of Ravnik’s celebrity partner remains a mystery, fueling further anticipation. However, Daily Jang points out that some fans are speculating whether Ravnik’s inclusion might mean an established pro dancer will not be returning for the season, adding a layer of intrigue to the casting decisions.
Looking Ahead
As the premiere date of September 16, 2025, approaches, the anticipation surrounding Jan Ravnik’s debut on Dancing with the Stars continues to build. The show will air on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu, ensuring wide accessibility for viewers. The partnership between Ravnik and his yet-to-be-revealed celebrity partner holds immense potential, promising a fusion of ballroom technique and the electric energy Ravnik cultivated during his time with Taylor Swift. As Entertainment Weekly suggests, this season of Dancing with the Stars is poised to be one of the most talked-about yet, thanks to the infusion of new talent and the crossover appeal of its stars. TMZ reports that the coming weeks will reveal more about the dynamics and pairings, setting the stage for a captivating season.
Jan Ravnik’s transition from the Eras Tour to Dancing with the Stars represents a compelling intersection of pop culture and ballroom tradition. His established dance credentials, coupled with his newfound fame, position him as a key figure in the upcoming season. Whether he can translate his stage presence into ballroom success remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Ravnik’s presence has already injected a fresh dose of excitement into the Dancing with the Stars universe.
