Julia Stiles has ignited rumors that she will be joining the cast of "Dancing With the Stars" for its 35th season, which is slated to premiere on September 15 on ABC and Disney+. The 45-year-old actress, known for her roles in "Save the Last Dance" and "10 Things I Hate About You," shared a cryptic slideshow on Sunday with the caption, "Ready for LA like…"
The slideshow included make-up free images of Stiles whitening her teeth and applying a moisturizing face mask. Representatives for the Emmy nominee did not immediately respond to requests for comment, but production sources reportedly told TMZ that she has been cast in the show.
Stiles's connection to dance is well-established in her filmography. She gained widespread recognition for her role as a character who famously danced to The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Hypnotize" in the 1999 film "10 Things I Hate About You." She later starred as an aspiring ballet dancer incorporating hip-hop into her audition in the 2001 film "Save the Last Dance." In 2023, Stiles revisited her dance-themed comedic roots by recreating a routine on "Saturday Night Live."
She also has recent connections to the "Dancing With the Stars" universe. Last year, Stiles directed the romance film "Wish You Were Here," which starred Jennifer Grey, a winner of "Dancing With the Stars" season 11.
Stiles's upcoming projects include the comedy "Unbearable Christmas" and the psychological thriller series "Recap." Her last acting credit was a role in Heather Graham's 2024 dramedy "Chosen Family."
Other potential contestants are also circulating. Jimmy Kimmel Live! sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez has been seen rehearsing with reigning champion Witney Carson, who is pregnant with her third child. Previously announced competitors include "Summer House" star Ciara Miller and "Love Island" alum Maura Higgins. Savannah Bananas second baseman Jackson Olson has also shared his excitement about the experience, and "Love Thy Nader" star Sarah Jane Nader is reportedly set to be partnered with a female professional dancer. Jenna Dewan, who has a background as a backup dancer for several major artists, is also rumored to be joining the cast. Tatyana Ali, Tyler Cameron, and Conner Leavitt are also among those rumored to be participating.
While these names are circulating, the complete lineup for season 35 will not be officially announced until September 2 on "Good Morning America." Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough are expected to return as co-hosts, with Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli anticipated to reprise their roles as judges.