DWTS Format Change for Season 34 Finale: Everything We Know About the New Three-Round Twist

The *Dancing With the Stars* Season 34 finale is making a major format change, and fans are already buzzing. The show confirmed it will introduce three rounds of competition for the first time in series history. This update arrives after Alix Earle, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, Robert Irwin, and Elaine Hendrix secured their spots in next week’s finale.

The new format was revealed live on November 18, when co-host Alfonso Ribeiro shared the Season 34 finale plan on air. The announcement marks one of the biggest structural shifts the show has made in years, and it raises new stakes for all five finalists as they prepare for an intense closing night.

New DWTS Finale Format Explained

Season 34 will break tradition by including three competitive rounds in the finale. Ribeiro told viewers the show will take over primetime with what he called “the most demanding season finale in the history of the show.” He also confirmed the addition of Instant Dances, which require contestants to perform to surprise songs with minimal prep time. This format change forces dancers to rely on technique, instinct, and fast choreography adaptation.

E! News also highlighted the significance of Instant Dances, describing them as one of the toughest challenges the show has ever used. Unlike standard routines, which contestants rehearse for days, Instant Dances test live reaction and performance under real-time pressure. This will likely influence scoring, choreography choices, and fan voting during the finale.

The five finalists represent one of the tightest fields in recent seasons. Alix Earle has gained praise for her growth and storytelling. Jordan Chiles continues to impress with athletic precision. Dylan Efron has shown consistent improvement. Robert Irwin remains a fan favorite thanks to his high-energy routines and emotional depth. Elaine Hendrix brings classic performance polish and strong technique. All five will enter the finale with strong momentum, but the new structure levels the competition in unpredictable ways.

Meanwhile, the semi-finals ended with the elimination of Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Leavitt expressed gratitude for her journey, saying she didn’t expect to make it that far and valued every moment. Their exit narrows the field to the remaining finalists whose performances will now be shaped by the expanded format.

Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas brought a magnetic energy to that Argentine Tango! DWTS official X page.

How the Finale Twist Changes the Competition

The inclusion of three rounds makes Season 34’s finale more demanding both physically and strategically. Contestants typically rely on perfecting two routines, but an added round increases fatigue and raises expectations. The Instant Dance twist also removes the comfort of long rehearsals, forcing celebrities to perform with improvisational skill.

This format may favor competitors with strong versatility and quick musical interpretation. It also increases viewer anticipation, since the finale will feature more live, high-stakes moments than usual. The challenge could create breakout performances, surprise leaderboard shifts, or even unexpected upsets.

The DWTS Season 34 finale is shaping up to be the most intense closing episode in years. With the new format, Instant Dances, and a competitive finalist lineup, fans are preparing for a night of unpredictable and closely scored performances.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the DWTS Season 34 format change?

The finale will now include three rounds of competition instead of the usual two. One of the rounds will feature Instant Dances performed to surprise songs.

Q2: Which contestants made the Season 34 finale?

The finalists are Alix Earle, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, Robert Irwin, and Elaine Hendrix. They advanced after the semi-final eliminations.

Q3: What are Instant Dances on DWTS?

Instant Dances require celebs to perform routines with minimal rehearsal. They learn the song shortly before dancing live on air.

Q4: Why is the new finale format significant?

The three-round structure adds difficulty and increases pressure. It changes scoring dynamics and could shift fan expectations heading into the finale.

Q5: Who was eliminated in the semi-finals?

Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas were eliminated. Leavitt said she was grateful for the journey and surprised she made it that far.