Dancing with the Stars Airs Special Monday Episode for Disney Night
The popular dance competition shifts its schedule temporarily due to upcoming midterm election coverage.
Dancing with the Stars is bringing magic to the ballroom with a special Monday broadcast for its latest installment. Week 8 of the competition features a Disney Night theme with a Broadway twist, showcasing routines inspired by beloved stage adaptations and animated films like Peter Pan, Hamilton, and Mary Poppins.
The hit ABC show is veering away from its typical Tuesday night broadcast slot because of the 2026 midterm elections. ABC News is scheduled to run a special election night program from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, November 3, prompting the dance competition to air on Monday, November 2, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
The special episode also marks the first team dances of Season 35. The eight remaining couples are split into two separate groups to compete directly against one another for a valuable boost on the leaderboard. Stage and screen star Cynthia Erivo serves as the guest judge for the evening, alongside special appearances by Broadway performers Heather Headley, Michael James Scott, Rodney Ingram, Kyra Belle Johnson, and former contestant Sherri Shepherd.
Ahead of the live broadcast, professional dancer Adele Zaikman announced she would miss the Disney Night episode due to an illness. The 25-year-old pro, who made her debut earlier this season, shared on social media that she was feeling unwell and would sit out the opening number.
While the show continues its current season, the competition also faces ongoing discussions regarding its format and history. Over the years, several former celebrity contestants have questioned the authenticity of the show, occasionally accusing the production of being rigged following unexpected eliminations or scoring controversies.
Executive producer Ryan O'Dowd previously dismissed those accusations during an interview, emphasizing the importance of the show's credibility. He stated that the production takes the voting process very seriously and would never manipulate the results, ensuring that viewers maintain a genuine voice in determining who wins the competition.