Dancing With The Stars returns to our screens in January – but some of the much loved professional dancers won’t be returning as the pro line-up has been confirmed
Three popular professional dancers are leaving Dancing With The Stars ahead of it’s return in January, as three new faces join the show.
RTÉ and Shinawil have today confirmed that Salome Chachua, Denys Samson and Simone Arena won’t be returning to the dance floor in the new year.
But with rehearsals already underway, it has bene confirmed that three new dancers will be waltzing into the hearts of Irish audiences – Arianna Favaro, Leonardo Lini and James Cutler.
Salome, who danced with Danny O’Carroll, Jordan Conroy, Paul Brogan and David Whelan, said: “After four wonderful seasons, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from Dancing with the Stars this year for personal reasons. My time on the show has been one of the greatest joys of my career.
“The energy, the creativity, the incredible team, and of course the warm, welcoming spirit of Ireland. I will truly miss it all.
“I’m so proud to have reached the final three times, and who knows, maybe one day I’ll be back to finally lift that glitterball trophy… preferably with a celebrity who doesn’t mind a lot of extra rehearsals! Thank you, Ireland, for every step of this unforgettable journey.”
Denys Samson, who previously partnered Laura Fox, Panti Bliss, Elaine Crowley and Erica Cody, added: “It’s bittersweet to announce I won’t be returning to DWTS.
“This show has shaped so much of my life, and I’m endlessly grateful for every partner, colleague, friend, fan, and the incredible team at Shinawil who made this journey feel like home.
“Most importantly, thank you to the fans — your messages, your votes, your beautiful presents, and your unwavering support have lifted me up more than you’ll ever know. I’ve carried every bit of your kindness with me.
“While this chapter is coming to an end, it will always hold such a special place in my heart. Wishing the cast and team the most magical season yet – I’ll be cheering you on with so much love.”
And Simone Arena, who linked up with Blu Hydrangea and Yasmin Seky, said: “After two wonderful seasons, I won’t be returning to Dancing with the Stars this year. I’m so grateful to the incredible production team, crew and everyone who makes the show what it is. Thank you for the beautiful memories.”
Joining newbies Arianna, Leonardo and James on the ninth season of Dancing With The Stars are reigning champion Laura Nolan, Ervinas Merfeldas, Robert Rowiński, Stephen Vincent, Maciej Zięba, Alex Vladimirov, Rebecca Scott and Daniela Roze.
Kylee Vincent is also back in the ballroom after giving birth to her first child last year.
Dancing With The Stars returns to RTÉ One and RTÉ Player in January.
