Sharna Burgess is set to return to the ballroom as a professional dancer for Season 35 of "Dancing With the Stars," ABC announced on Monday. This marks her return after a five-year hiatus from the competition series.
"I’m back in the ballroom, baby," Burgess stated in a reveal video shared on the show's Instagram account. She expressed her excitement about competing for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy and reuniting with her "dancing family."
Burgess, 41, first joined "Dancing With the Stars" as a troupe member in 2011 before becoming a professional partner in 2013 for Season 16. She announced her departure from the show in 2022 ahead of Season 31, citing the need to focus on her newborn son, Zane, whom she shares with fiancé Brian Austin Green.
At the time of her exit, Burgess explained on Instagram that the demanding schedule of "DWTS," requiring at least 10 hours a day, was incompatible with her role as a "full-time breastfeeding mama" and her desire to cherish moments with her infant son.
Despite her departure as a regular competitor, Burgess remained connected to the show, making a special guest appearance during its 500th episode in November 2024.
Burgess's return is part of a series of cast announcements leading up to Season 35. Previously confirmed participants include "Summer House" star Ciara Miller, "Love Island" alum Maura Higgins, Savannah Bananas performer Jackson Olson, and Jimmy Kimmel's longtime sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez. Actress Julia Stiles was also recently confirmed to be joining the ballroom.
The complete cast for "Dancing With the Stars" Season 35, featuring both celebrities and professional dancers, will be unveiled on "Good Morning America" on September 2. The new season is scheduled to premiere on September 15 on ABC and Disney+.