Ballroom Buzz surrounds Whitney Leavitt, the star of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and popular MomTok influencer, as she embarks on her “Dancing With the Stars” (DWTS) journey. The excitement stems from her partnership with none other than Mark Ballas, the acclaimed professional dancer making his highly anticipated return to the ballroom. The news, revealed on September 3, 2025, alongside the full Season 34 cast reveal, has sent ripples of anticipation through the DWTS community and beyond.
A Surprise Partnership
The DWTS Season 34 cast reveal was a major event, covered extensively by entertainment news outlets and featured on “Good Morning America.” While Leavitt’s participation had been confirmed earlier, during “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” reunion in July – where it was also announced that her co-star, Jen Affleck, would be joining the competition – the identity of her professional partner remained a closely guarded secret. The premiere is scheduled for September 16, 2025, promising a season filled with dazzling performances and intense competition, all set within the familiar ballroom setting, presumably in Los Angeles, where Leavitt has temporarily relocated. According to People.com, fans were ecstatic to learn more about the pairings after weeks of speculation.
Leavitt’s DWTS Dream and Ballas’s Return
Leavitt has openly expressed her long-standing admiration for “Dancing With the Stars.” She views her participation as a personal challenge, aiming to push her physical and mental boundaries while showcasing a new side of herself to the audience. Her reaction upon discovering that Ballas would be her partner was one of disbelief and excitement. As she confessed to Us Weekly, she “freaked out” internally, given the rumors circulating about his potential return. Mark Ballas, a two-time Mirrorball Trophy winner, had announced his retirement from the show in 2023. However, several factors contributed to his decision to un-retire.
The Reasons Behind Ballas’s Comeback
Ballas’s return is driven by a combination of personal and professional motivations. As reported by Entertainment Tonight, he cited the resolution of nagging injury issues as a primary factor. Furthermore, becoming a new father played a significant role, as he expressed a desire for his son to witness him dance. Ultimately, his enduring love for the show proved to be the deciding factor. According to Screen Rant, Ballas’s return provides an “emotional anchor” for long-time viewers of the show.
Early Chemistry and Competitive Spirit
The partnership between Leavitt and Ballas has already sparked considerable buzz. Both have confirmed a strong connection, sharing laughter and a dedication to hard work. Leavitt acknowledges that while she has a dance background, the intricacies of ballroom dancing present a unique challenge. FandomWire highlights the dynamic between Leavitt and Ballas as one to watch, emphasizing their shared commitment to excellence. The friendly rivalry with her co-star, Jen Affleck, adds another layer of motivation to Leavitt’s journey, fueling her competitive spirit.
A Season of High Stakes and Anticipation
Ballas’s comeback is widely regarded as a major draw for the 20th anniversary season of DWTS. His presence is expected to significantly contribute to the overall excitement and social engagement surrounding the show. TV Insider notes that Ballas’s return is a strategic move by the show’s producers, aimed at boosting viewership and recapturing the magic of previous seasons. The 34th season of “Dancing With the Stars” promises to be a captivating blend of talent, competition, and personal stories. With Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas at the forefront, viewers can anticipate a season filled with memorable performances and unexpected twists.
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