‘DWTS’ Shocker: Fan-Favorite Pros Facing the Axe After Season 34 Wraps

It’s hard to believe, but Dancing With The Stars is stepping into its 20th anniversary year. What began in 2005 with soap star Kelly Monaco cha-cha-cha-ing her way to the first Mirrorball Trophy has now evolved into one of ABC’s longest-running reality franchises. Yet, two decades later, things behind the glittery curtains are reportedly anything but smooth.

Season 34’s Rocky Start

Season 34 only just hit the dance floor a few weeks ago, but the tension began long before the first score was given.

Sources close to the production revealed that professional dancer Jenna Johnson was frustrated with her celebrity partner, The Lost Boys actor Corey Feldman, who reportedly missed multiple early rehearsals due to other commitments in Los Angeles.

That lack of practice time may have cost him dearly — Feldman was among the first contestants eliminated. And if viewers thought the drama would leave with him, they were mistaken.

Recently ousted contestant Hilaria Baldwin has made waves by claiming she was “bullied off the show,” a statement that’s stirred online debate. While some fans sympathized, others agreed with her elimination, saying the right call was made.

Producers Reportedly Planning Major Overhaul

Despite the glitz and glamour, whispers of dissatisfaction are echoing through the studio.

According to The U.S. Sun, some producers are already gearing up for a “major shake-up” ahead of Season 35 — and that could mean multiple firings.

While ABC hasn’t officially renewed DWTS for another season, insiders say the creative team isn’t pleased with how some of the pros have been performing this year.

“Some of the pros aren’t quite keeping up with the rest of the ensemble,” one source reportedly said, suggesting that the issue might be less about the celebrities and more about the dancers themselves.

Who’s in the Hot Seat?

Interestingly, the insider didn’t point fingers at everyone viewers might expect. Gleb Savchenko, who made headlines earlier for a social media rant about not being invited back, returned last-minute for Season 34 — partnering with Hilaria Baldwin.

Though he recently hinted she might be his “last” partner on the show, sources say he isn’t one of the pros being closely monitored.

Instead, attention seems to be turning to Jan Ravnik, a newcomer to DWTS who previously performed as a backup dancer on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.

Though he’s new, critics and judges alike have noted his sensitivity to feedback. “Jan has been called out for lacking proper technique himself and not having clean lines when he should be the teacher and the master of technique,” the insider revealed.

Rylee Arnold, another young pro who joined in 2023, is also reportedly under scrutiny. She’s been open about battling a serious health condition while competing, but producers are said to be unimpressed with the progress of her celebrity partners this season.

“There has been an emphasis that she needs to be a better teacher,” the source continued. “Her and her partners, while beloved, have not improved drastically and make mistakes even deeper into the season.”

Mark Ballas: The Comeback King

While some pros may be walking a tightrope, one familiar face seems determined to stay in the spotlight — Mark Ballas.

The two-time champ retired after winning Season 31, only to return this year alongside Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Whitney Leavitt. The pair has quickly emerged as frontrunners, consistently earning high scores and audience praise.

Still, not all fans are thrilled about Ballas’ comeback. Some critics online have accused him of being overly dramatic, with one even commenting that they hoped he wouldn’t return next year.

Ballas, however, appears unfazed. Known for his cheeky humor, he joked back that he might “come back next season just for that hater.”

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