Dancing with the Stars 34: Carrie Ann Inaba to Miss Premiere Due to Illness; No Replacement Judge Will Step In
Dancing with the Stars season 34 opens without one of its veteran judges. Carrie Ann Inaba announced she will not appear for the live premiere after falling ill, and producers have confirmed there will be no substitute judge for the episode. With only Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough on the panel, the judges’ scores will be tallied on a 20-point scale for this broadcast instead of the usual 40-point total.
The decision leaves the show to proceed with two judges providing critiques and scores to 14 competing ballroom pairs during the first episode. Sources familiar with production details say the short lead time made it difficult to secure an appropriate replacement, so the broadcast will continue with the reduced scoring format for the night.
Carrie Ann shared the news on her social media accounts, explaining she was feeling unwell and needed to rest. In her message she wrote: “I wanted to share that I will not be at the show tonight as I am feeling quite under the weather. I’m resting up and can’t wait to be back next week in good health. In the meantime, I wish all the contestants the very best of luck. I’ll be cheering you on from home.”
Fans and viewers responded with well-wishes, and the show’s remaining judges—longtime panelist Bruno Tonioli and returning judge Derek Hough—will carry the responsibility of evaluating the performances and offering feedback. With two judges instead of three, each judge’s scores will carry more weight, and the night’s maximum possible points per routine will be 20.
Health background and context
Carrie Ann Inaba has been open in recent years about managing several chronic health conditions. She has publicly discussed diagnoses that include Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis, and has noted she carries markers for antiphospholipid syndrome, which can increase the risk of blood clots. These ongoing health challenges have occasionally required her to take breaks to focus on treatment and recovery.
Given that context, viewers and colleagues have expressed concern and support, urging her to prioritize rest and treatment. The unpredictable nature of autoimmune and chronic pain conditions can make sudden absences necessary, especially when symptoms flare. The show’s production team and cast have conveyed their support for her recovery and plan to welcome her back when she’s well enough to return.
For the season premiere, fans should expect energetic performances from the cast of celebrity contestants paired with professional dancers, judged by Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough. While the judging panel is down one seat for this episode, the broadcast will still feature full live production values, choreography, and the usual mix of ballroom and Latin dance styles that kick off the new season.
Dancing with the Stars will air live simultaneously on ABC and Disney+, with episodes made available the following day on Hulu for on-demand viewing. The network’s simulcast plans aim to reach both traditional broadcast viewers and streaming audiences, ensuring that those who miss the live telecast can catch up quickly.
As the season advances, producers may adjust judging arrangements depending on Carrie Ann’s health and availability. For now, the immediate plan is to move forward with the premiere under the temporary 20-point scoring system and to keep the competition on schedule. The show and its fans are sending their best wishes to Carrie Ann for a swift and complete recovery, and viewers can look forward to her return as soon as she’s ready to rejoin the judges’ table.