Irish Stars Gear Up For Dwts 2026: A Global Dance-Off Sensation!

The Buzz Around DWTS 2026

With Dancing With The Stars set to light up screens globally, fans from Hollywood to London are buzzing about the fresh lineup of stars ready to dazzle. It's not just another season – it's a high-stakes mix of talent, sweat, and star power that'll have everyone glued to their TVs. From Eurovision icons to reality TV upstarts, this year's roster promises non-stop excitement as these celebs swap their usual spots for the spotlight of the dancefloor.

We're just weeks away from the premiere, and the full list is out, teasing a global spectacle that blends Irish charm with universal appeal. Think of it as a cultural crossover event – where the energy of Seoul's K-pop meets Mumbai's Bollywood flair, all through the lens of Ireland's vibrant stars. It's the kind of show that'll have audiences worldwide debating moves and mishaps long after the credits roll.

The Star-Studded Line-Up

Dive into the who's who of DWTS 2026, a lineup packed with personalities that are turning heads everywhere. These stars aren't just dancing for fun – they're bringing their A-game, from musical legends to fresh faces, all aiming to wow judges and fans alike. It's the perfect storm of entertainment that'll keep the gossip mills churning.

As one insider put it, the mix of backgrounds makes this season unmissable: "This lineup is a masterclass in star power, blending raw talent with real-life stories that resonate globally." Expect plenty of drama, triumphs, and maybe a few stumbles that social media will eat up.

Brian Kennedy: The Eurovision Veteran

Singer Brian Kennedy is stepping into the spotlight as the final addition to this star-packed crew. Known for representing Ireland at Eurovision in 2006 with his hit 'Every Song is a Cry for Love', and scoring big with his quadruple-platinum album 'A Better Man' back in 1996, he's no stranger to the big stage. Now, he's trading melodies for moves, gearing up for what he calls a thrilling challenge just as he hits his 60th year.

Brian's enthusiasm is infectious, making him a fan favorite already. He's all in on getting fit and nailing those dance routines, proving that age is just a number in this global dance party.

Jordan Dargan: The Tech Whiz and Reality Star

Next up is Jordan Dargan, the founder of 3D animation powerhouse Rendify Studios, who made waves as the youngest contestant on 'The Apprentice' in 2025 – snagging third place. He's swapping boardrooms for ballrooms, embracing this as his latest bold move. Jordan's story is all about pushing limits, and he's ready to dive into the dance world with the same drive that built his empire.

As he shared, it's about facing fears head-on: "I believe true growth always sits on the other side of doing the things that terrify you." His journey from tech innovator to dance contender is pure inspiration for dreamers worldwide.

More Stars Ready to Shine

From TV hosts to Olympians, the rest of the lineup is a who's who of talent that's got the world talking. Anne Cassin, the 'Nationwide' presenter, is the tenth star confirmed, excited to bring her family vibes to the competition. She's already met the crew and is buzzing about the supportive energy, though she knows the real test comes when the music starts.

“My husband and my daughters are really supportive, but my sister squealed with delight when I told her – it's going to be a wild ride!”

That kind of family cheer is fueling her fire, making this season feel like a global family affair.

Philip Doyle: The Olympic Challenger

Olympian Philip Doyle is trading his oars for dance shoes, admitting he's a bit nervous about this new territory. As an athlete who's racked up medals for Ireland, he's all about self-improvement and promoting his sport on a bigger stage. His friends are already joking about his potential missteps, but that's just adding to the fun.

Philip's motivation? To step out of his comfort zone and inspire others, proving that challenges keep life exciting no matter where you are in the world.

Tolü Makay: The Nigerian-Irish Sensation

Nigerian-Irish singer Tolü Makay is bringing her unique flair to the dancefloor, with her cousin hilariously questioning her skills right off the bat. She's craving a fun challenge and sees DWTS as the perfect fit, eager to see how her body adapts to the rhythms.

Tolü's excitement is contagious, as she dives into this with the same passion that defines her music career.

Wrapping Up the Roster

The lineup rounds out with even more dynamic stars, like Amber Wilson – sister to Vogue Williams – who's teaming up for the series' first all-female couple and loving the glamour. Then there's Eric Roberts, the 'Ireland AM' host with a hidden dance background from shows like 'Got to Dance', ready to bust out some hip-hop moves he learned from bedroom sessions.

Fair City's Stephanie Kelly is stepping in with zero dance experience but plenty of enthusiasm, hoping to wave to her kids from the floor. Comedian Michael Fry, known for his viral sketches and roles in 'Derry Girls', is aiming to avoid embarrassment while dreaming of action-hero status like Michelle Yeoh.

Katelyn Cummins and Beyond

Beauty queen Katelyn Cummins, fresh from her International Rose of Tralee win, is juggling her electrician apprenticeship with dance dreams, excited to master the jive. Paudie Maloney, the breakout from 'The Traitors Ireland', is trading his one-liners for sober dancefloor antics, while Eurovision winner Niamh Kavanagh – encouraged by comedian Gearóid Farrelly – is back for more stage magic.

Mark your calendars: DWTS kicks off on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player on January 4, 2026, promising a season full of global twists and turns that'll have fans everywhere on their feet.