The Season 35 cast of Dancing With the Stars has officially been revealed, and viewers already have plenty to say. The 16 celebrities include actors, athletes, reality stars, entertainers, and familiar television personalities, with the two-night premiere scheduled for September 15 and 16. Julia Stiles quickly became a fan favorite, with longtime viewers excited to see the 10 Things I Hate About You star trade Hollywood for the ballroom. Jenna Dewan, however, immediately sparked a different kind of conversation. Because she spent years as a professional backup dancer for stars including Janet Jackson, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliott, some fans questioned whether she has too much experience for the competition. Her casting has already become one of the season’s biggest talking points.

Dewan has pushed back on the criticism, explaining that ballroom dancing is very different from the styles she learned during her professional career. She admitted her experience may give her certain advantages, but said she still has to learn an entirely new technique and adjust habits developed over many years. Her partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, acknowledged that expectations will be high but believes their connection could matter just as much as technical ability. Dewan is also not the first trained dancer to compete on the show. Former contestants such as Nicole Scherzinger, Charli D’Amelio, Jordan Fisher, JoJo Siwa, and Zendaya entered with significant dance backgrounds, while Harry Shum Jr. brings professional dance experience to this season as well. With Julia Stiles generating excitement and Jenna Dewan facing early scrutiny, Season 35 already has viewers choosing sides before the first routine even begins.