Get ready for an emotional ballroom as ‘Dancing with the Stars’ dedicates a special night to the most influential people in its contestants’ lives, featuring heartwarming performances, surprise reunions like William ‘Mr. Feeny’ Daniels, and a lineup of songs designed to tug at your heartstrings. This Season 34 event, set for October 14, 2025, promises a memorable evening of heartfelt tributes and special guest appearances, including two-time Mirrorball winner Kym Herjavic returning as a guest judge.
The ballroom is set to become a stage for deeply personal and moving tributes on Dancing with the Stars Dedication Night, airing Tuesday, October 14, 2025. This highly anticipated Season 34 episode will see the remaining ten couples perform routines honoring significant individuals and institutions in their lives. From iconic co-stars to cherished family members, the night is poised to be a powerful celebration of gratitude and love.
Fans can anticipate an evening filled with emotional performances, especially with the return of two-time Mirrorball champion Kym Herjavic (formerly Kym Johnson) as a special guest judge, as confirmed by a press release for the event. The song list promises a mix of touching ballads and energetic numbers, many with familiar connections that will resonate deeply with viewers.
Meet the Stars and Their Special Dedications
The ten celebrity dancers will share their personal stories through their performances, each dedicating their dance to someone truly special. Here’s a detailed look at who is being honored and what to expect on this unforgettable night:
- Jennifer Affleck and Jan Ravnik: They will perform a Viennese Waltz to “Rescue” by Lauren Daigle, a heartfelt dedication to Jennifer’s mother, Maria Affleck. Jennifer previously shared a touching moment on Instagram about her mother seeing her on a Times Square billboard, highlighting their strong bond.
- Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa: Their Viennese Waltz to “Daughters” by John Mayer will honor Jordan’s father, Timothy Chiles. According to the New York Times, it was Timothy who initially encouraged the Olympic gold medalist to try gymnastics due to her energetic nature.
- Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy: Alix will perform a Contemporary routine to “Sparks” by Coldplay, dedicated to her younger sister, Izabel Earle. Alix has previously featured her sisters, including Izabel, walking the runway for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit.
- Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach: His Contemporary dance to “Rewrite the Stars” by Zac Efron & Zendaya is a tribute to his little sister, Olivia Efron. Dylan often speaks fondly of his siblings, and he shared a sweet video of Olivia giving him a dance lesson, making this dedication especially poignant.
- Danielle Fishel and Pasha Pashkov: In a much-anticipated reunion, Danielle will dance a Jive to the beloved “Boy Meets World” theme song, dedicating it to her iconic co-star, William Daniels, known to fans as Mr. Feeny. Daniels, 98, is expected to join them on the ballroom floor and participate in the dance, a moment that is sure to delight fans of the classic sitcom. Fishel stated on her Danielle With the Stars podcast that Daniels is an “inspiration” and this is a platform for him “to receive the love that he deserves.”
- Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten: Their Foxtrot to “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole will be dedicated to Elaine’s best friend and The Parent Trap co-star, Lisa Ann Walter, who played Chessy. Hendrix described Walter to PEOPLE as her “life security blanket.”
- Scott Hoying and Rylee Arnold: The Pentatonix singer will perform a Foxtrot to his own song, “Parallel,” as a dedication to his husband, Mark Manio. Manio expressed his confidence in Hoying’s dancing ability to PEOPLE, stating, “He’s an incredible dancer.”
- Robert Irwin and Witney Carson: Their Contemporary routine to “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins will be a touching tribute to Robert’s mother, Terri Irwin. Robert has publicly called his mother his “hero,” praising her bravery and steadfast determination.
- Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas: Whitney will perform a Contemporary dance to “Heal” by Jamal Roberts, dedicating it to her husband, Conner Leavitt. The couple, known from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, married in 2016 and have openly shared their journey.
- Andy Richter and Emma Slater: Andy will bring a party vibe with a Salsa to “Jump in the Line” by Harry Belafonte, dedicated to his stepdaughter, Cornelia Richter. Richter married Jennifer Herrera in 2023, embracing Cornelia as a cherished part of his life.
Anticipating an Emotional and Iconic Evening
Dedication Night is consistently one of the most emotional episodes of Dancing with the Stars, and Season 34 promises to uphold that tradition with a lineup of deeply personal tributes. The presence of iconic figures like William Daniels, alongside heartfelt family dedications, will undoubtedly create moments that resonate long after the final dance.
As the dancers take to the ballroom, they are not just performing for scores, but sharing a piece of their hearts, making Dedication Night a truly special event for both the participants and the dedicated fan community.
