All the Rules You Didn't Know 'Dancing With the Stars' Contestants Have to Follow

Woman's Day

September 21, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

All the Rules You Didn't Know 'Dancing With the Stars' Contestants Have to Follow

You have to get an offer from the casting director.

You don't have to be a trending celebrity.

You aren't locked into the show after the cast reveal.

You can (but shouldn't!) drop out at the last minute.

You're matched with a pro dancer strategically.

Producers make sure partners like each other.

You don't get to choose your dancing partner.

Dancers don't get to choose their star either.

Producers choose the music for the dances.

If you're part of the cast, you'll get paid.

Dancers don't get paid as much as the stars.

You have to use the show's hair and makeup teams.

Contestants have to get spray tans every week.

You have to arrive early the morning of the live show.

Producers can change anything in a performance.

Celebrities are expected to contribute to the choreography.

For the group number, stars don't get a say.

You have to give an interview after every performance.

Producers have control over the storylines.

You have to be willing to share on camera.

Contestants can't wear logos on television.

Dancers are scored by more than just the judges.

The winners take home more than just bragging rights.

For some, the competition doesn't end at the finale.

All the Rules You Didn't Know 'Dancing With the Stars' Contestants Have to Follow

There's something extremely entertaining about seeing Buzz Aldrin do the cha-cha and Michael Bolton dressed in ruffles — and that's exactly why Dancing With the Stars has remained a staple on ABC for the past 28 seasons and continues to be in its current 29th season. But what goes into the stars getting to compete for the Mirrorball Trophy? From the grueling rehearsals to the makeup guidelines that often get pushback, we're breaking down all of the rules the Dancing With the Stars competitors have to follow.

The new season of Dancing with the Stars premiered on September 14, and things were different due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and understandably so. Long-time DWTS judge was unable to re-enter the U.S. from London due to travel restrictions that are still in place worldwide — show veteran Derek Hough will be taking the judge's place for the time being. Since the show is no longer filmed in front of a live audience, an applause track has been added to give some life to the show, but some fans are not happy with the track, finding it too loud and a bit annoying after the first episode. Hopefully producers will fix it moving forward with season 29. The show must go on, and the dancers are as talented as ever.

Eric McCandless - Getty Images

Here's what it takes to bring home the Mirrorball Trophy.

From Woman's Day