Harold Wheeler, the original musical director and composer for ABC's "Dancing With the Stars," has died at the age of 82. Wheeler passed away Wednesday at his Los Angeles home following a lengthy illness, according to Deadline.
He served as the musical director and composer for the first 17 seasons of "Dancing With the Stars" from 2005 to 2013. His contributions were integral to the show's sound and memorable musical numbers.
News of his death prompted tributes from "DWTS" alumni and colleagues. Tom Bergeron, the show's original host for 28 seasons, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, recalling Wheeler's talent and the joy his orchestra brought to rehearsals. "Nothing gave me greater pleasure than making him & his orchestra break up during dress rehearsals. Well, that & basking in the brilliance of their talent. #RIP my friend 😔," Bergeron wrote.
Ray Chew, Wheeler's successor as the musical director for "DWTS," described it as one of his career's greatest honors to have received the baton from Wheeler. "Harold could not have been more gracious, offering me his blessing and encouragement as I stepped into the role he had shaped with such distinction," Chew stated, adding that Wheeler's impact on the entertainment industry was "immeasurable."
Derek Hough, a six-time "DWTS" champion and current judge, also honored Wheeler on Instagram, calling him a legend who "helped build so much of the magic we all know" on the show. Hough recounted a memorable moment when Hough and his Season 15 celebrity partner, Shawn Johnson, tumbled into Wheeler's band pit. "Harold, thank you for the music, the kindness, and the memories," Hough concluded. "Rest in peace, my friend."
Beyond "Dancing With the Stars," Wheeler was a celebrated Broadway orchestrator, earning a Special Tony Award in 2019 for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre. His extensive career included serving as musical director and orchestrator for numerous other television award shows, such as the Oscars and Emmys, and several Broadway-to-television musical adaptations. He also conducted the opening and closing ceremonies for the 1996 Summer Olympics and collaborated with renowned musicians including Burt Bacharach, Nina Simone, and Bruce Springsteen.
Wheeler is survived by his wife, Hattie Winston, two daughters, Marian and Samantha, and his grandchildren. The "DWTS" family previously experienced a significant loss with the passing of judge Len Goodman in 2023.