By Ava Stanek
Every season, fans eagerly watch their favorite celebrities dance, succeed, and sometimes stumble on the ballroom floor. From cha-cha to tango, salsa, and jazz, Dancing With the Stars has kept America entertained for over 30 seasons. So what makes this show so addictive? Even when it’s tough to watch some celebrities struggle with their moves, we keep coming back for more.
When Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) premiered in 2005, it emerged within a burgeoning reality television landscape in which audiences were captivated by the prospect of real people showcased in competitive settings. The allure of celebrities vying for the iconic mirrorball trophy quickly established the show’s prominence. Nearly two decades later, DWTS continues to thrive and has outlasted similarly popular programs such as American Idol and The Voice. This enduring success can be attributed in part to the program’s highly interactive format, which is both family-friendly and inclusive. A notable element of this interactivity is the democratic elimination process, where viewers are empowered to participate directly by texting their votes for favored contestants. For example, when Olympic gymnast Simone Biles competed in Season 24, public voting played a decisive role in determining her progression on the show, a testament to the viewers’ influence. This participatory element transforms DWTS into a collective cultural experience that unites families, friend groups, and entire fan bases in collaborative engagement each week.
Unlike many reality shows that focus on conflict and drama, Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) stands out by creating a positive and supportive environment. Contestants often cheer each other on instead of competing harshly. The judges also help by giving advice and encouragement along with their critiques. This approach keeps drama to a minimum and puts the spotlight on personal growth and teamwork. The show’s colorful costumes, themed nights, and creative sets add to its fun and upbeat atmosphere. By including things like Disney-themed performances and nights inspired by current trends, DWTS stays fresh and appeals to viewers of all ages. Positivity isn’t just a style for DWTS—it’s a core part of what makes the show so popular.
Dancing With the Stars succeeds because it shows us that confidence can be learned, improvement comes with practice, and a little sparkle goes a long way. In a world full of dramatic reality TV, it’s refreshing to watch a show where we can cheer for people as they grow, even if they start out inexperienced.