Carrie Ann Inaba to Miss Dancing With the Stars Season 34 Premiere Due to Illness

Carrie Ann Inaba will not appear on the Dancing With the Stars season 34 premiere. The longtime judge confirmed she is unwell and will sit out the first episode. The show aired on September 16 on ABC and Disney+.

Her absence leaves fellow judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli to score the dances alone. Producers said no replacement judge will step in for the night. Fans sent messages of support to Inaba after her announcement.

Carrie Ann Inaba’s Health Update and Statement

Inaba shared the news hours before the live premiere. She wrote that she was “under the weather” and resting. She also wished all contestants luck from home.

The judge said she plans to return for the second week of the season. She has been with the show since it began in 2005. The 20th anniversary season is a milestone for the franchise.

Julianne Hough, Derek Hough, and professional dancers sent her well wishes online. Many urged her to recover quickly. The supportive response showed how central she is to the show.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the judging panel will run with only two judges. This format has rarely been used in the show’s history. Fans can expect scores to be handled differently in her absence.

Impact on Dancing With the Stars Season 34

Season 34 features 14 new celebrity contestants. They include athletes, actors, singers, and reality TV personalities. They will compete for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.

Hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough guide the season. The anniversary adds extra meaning, with tributes to the late judge Len Goodman. Inaba reflected earlier this year on her two decades on the panel.

Her absence on premiere night is unusual but not unprecedented. Past seasons also faced judge absences for health reasons. Still, her presence has been a constant for fans since 2005.

The show has promised viewers a strong start despite the setback. Fans will see familiar energy from Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli. The competition will continue with full performances and eliminations as planned.

Carrie Ann Inaba is expected to return next week. Her comeback will restore the full three-judge panel.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Carrie Ann Inaba missing Dancing With the Stars?

She said she is sick and resting at home. She expects to return next week in good health.

Q2: Who will judge in her place?

There will be no replacement. Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli will judge alone for the premiere.

Q3: When does Dancing With the Stars season 34 premiere?

The season premiered on September 16 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+. It also marks the 20th anniversary season.

Q4: How long has Carrie Ann Inaba been on the show?

She has been a judge since the very first season in 2005. She has stayed on the panel for all 20 years.

Q5: Which celebrities are competing this season?

The cast includes Hilaria Baldwin, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, Corey Feldman, and more. Fourteen contestants will compete for the Mirrorball Trophy.