What's Happening?
'Dancing with the Stars' (DWTS) Season 35 has announced significant schedule changes for November 2026. The popular 'Disney Night' episode will air on Monday, November 2, from 8 to 10 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on ABC, a departure from its usual Tuesday slot.
This shift is due to ABC's planned coverage of the midterm elections on Tuesday, November 3, which will preempt the regular DWTS broadcast. The network confirmed that there will be no new episode on Election Day. Following this, regular Tuesday episodes are slated to resume on November 10 with 'Grammy Night.' The semifinals are scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, with the Season 35 finale reportedly set for Tuesday, November 24. Disney Entertainment confirmed the 'Disney Night' details, while TV Insider reported the subsequent dates.
Why It's Important?
These schedule adjustments are crucial for both the network and the show's audience. For ABC, prioritizing midterm election coverage underscores its commitment to news and public service, even if it means temporarily disrupting popular entertainment programming. For 'Dancing with the Stars,' moving 'Disney Night' to a Monday could impact viewership patterns, as loyal fans will need to adjust their viewing habits. 'Disney Night' is typically a highly anticipated episode, known for its elaborate costumes and themed performances, making its rescheduling a notable event. The confirmed finale date provides clarity for contestants and viewers, building anticipation for the season's conclusion. The changes also highlight the dynamic nature of broadcast television scheduling, where live events and national priorities can influence programming.
What's Next?
Viewers should mark their calendars for the revised 'Disney Night' on Monday, November 2, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. Following the election break, 'Dancing with the Stars' will return to its regular Tuesday slot on November 10 for 'Grammy Night.' The competition will then proceed with the semifinals on November 17, leading up to the reported finale on November 24. Fans will continue to vote for their favorite couples during the live simulcast in the Eastern and Central time zones, with online and text votes combined with judges' scores. The specific start time and length of the finale are yet to be announced by ABC. Episodes will also be available for streaming the next day on Hulu.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to preempt 'Dancing with the Stars' for midterm election coverage reflects the broader role of broadcast networks in both entertainment and civic engagement. It underscores the importance placed on informing the public during significant political events, even at the cost of prime-time entertainment. This scheduling choice also subtly reinforces the idea that major networks still serve as primary sources for live news and event coverage, distinguishing them from pure streaming platforms. For 'Dancing with the Stars,' adapting to such changes demonstrates the show's flexibility and its ability to maintain audience engagement despite occasional disruptions, a testament to its enduring popularity and established viewership base. The move also highlights the ongoing interplay between entertainment programming and national events in the U.S. media landscape.
