Who Are The Judges On Dancing With The Stars 2025

So, picture this: it’s a Tuesday night, I’m three sodas deep in chips, and my aunt calls me mid-routine to ask, “Wait, who is the new judge with the scary glasses?” I had no answer. I was too busy judging a cha-cha through a mouthful of sour cream. That’s the thing about Dancing With the Stars—the judges are half the show. The 2025 season? It’s a wild, glittery mix of old favorites and fresh faces.

Let’s be real: you don’t watch for the dance, you watch for the faces. The scowls, the tears, the “I agree with Carrie Ann” moment that makes you spit out your drink. So, who’s sitting at that famous table this year? Buckle up.

The Backbone: Len Goodman’s Ghost (Sort Of)

Okay, no ghost. But Carrie Ann Inaba is back, and she’s still the one who cries when a paso doble gets too spicy. She’s your emotional aunt who also knows the rules. She’ll hand out a 9 and a tissue in the same breath.

Then there’s Derek Hough. The man is basically made of athletic tape and charisma. He’s the judge who tells you your footwork is sloppy, but he’ll wink right after so you don’t feel too attacked. He’s the cool older brother who also has a PhD in pirouettes.

And Bruno Tonioli—oh, Bruno. He’s back, baby. He’s the Italian uncle who’s had too much espresso and is living for your rumba. He’ll fall out of his chair, yell “MAGNIFICENT!” and then critique your arm placement. He’s chaos in a velvet jacket.

The New Blood: 2025’s Surprise Additions

Here’s where it gets juicy. The producers finally listened to the internet and shook things up. This year, we have Megan Thee Stallion as a guest judge. Yes, that Megan. She’s not here to be nice—she’s here to tell you your tango needs more “hot girl energy.” I’m terrified and thrilled.

But the real curveball? Julianne Hough is back full-time. She took a few seasons off to, I don’t know, wrestle with her soul or something. Now she’s returned, and she’s sharp. She’s the judge who will call out a lift from three rows back. She’s Derek’s sister, but with more bite. (Side note: imagine the Hough siblings arguing in the break room. I’d pay for that reality show.)

And for the first time ever, a former contestant is a permanent judge: Charli D’Amelio. Yes, the TikTok queen who won season 31. She’s 21 now, and she’s got the subtlety of a ballet slipper and the directness of a wrecking ball. She’ll say, “Your frame was off,” and you’ll feel seen and roasted simultaneously.

Rap legend joining the judges panel on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ - mlive.com

The Wild Card: A Robot Judge? (I’m Not Kidding)

Okay, this is where I almost dropped my chips. For one “innovation night,” they’re having an AI judge called “DANC-E.” It’s a hologram that analyzes your rhythm and posture. The internet is already calling it “Skynet with sequins.” I’m not sure if it’s brilliant or a cry for help. But honestly? Let it score a salsa. I dare it.

Don’t worry, the human judges still have the final say. But can you imagine Bruno arguing with a computer? “Machine, you have no passion!” It’s going to be glorious television.

The Chemistry: Why This Group Works

Here’s the secret sauce: this panel is balanced. You’ve got the veteran critical eye (Derek), the emotional heart (Carrie Ann), the theatrical crazy (Bruno), the young-gun expertise (Charli), and the celebrity unpredictability (Megan, popping in). They don’t always agree. In fact, they will yell at each other. That’s the point.

And Julianne? She’s the bridge. She knows what it’s like to be a pro dancer, a judge, and a host. She’ll side with the pros one minute, then flip to the audience’s side the next. She’s a diplomat in dance heels.

A Quick Pep Talk for You

If you’re like me and you always wonder, “Would I get a 6 or an 8 from these people?”—stop. The answer is a 5, because you’re dancing in your living room in socks. But that’s the fun. You get to judge them. And this year, you’ll have a ball judging this new lineup.

So, grab your snacks. The 2025 season is a car crash of talent, tears, and questionable choices—and these judges are the drivers. I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Now, who’s ready for a foxtrot with a twist?