‘Dancing With The Stars’ 2013: Season 17 Lineup Announced, Meet ‘DWTS’ Cast And Partners [PHOTOS]

ABC announced this fall's full cast lineup of "Dancing with the Stars" on Wednesday as the hit show enters season 17.

For the second season for 2013, a science whiz, a “Jersey Shore” reality starlet, ex-NFL player and a comedian will be part of the lineup, competing to dance their way to victory.

The full cast lineup was announced Wednesday on “Good Morning America” by hosts Tom Bergeron and Brooke Burke-Cahrvet. The announcement was paired with news that for the first time, the show would be condensed into one two-hour slot on Monday nights.

“DWTS” is entering its 17th season, off the heels of a season that crowned Kellie Pickler and professional partner Derek Hough as the winners. The previous season was an all-star season where competitors battled six of the most popular past winners and six runner-ups from past seasons and a fan-chosen wild card.

Season 17 of “Dancing with the Stars” will premiere Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC. This will be the first time the show will combine the performances with the results into one two-hour program. Eliminations will be based on the lowest scores of the night from judges combined with public votes from the previous week’s performance.

Meet the 12 contestants for season 17 of ‘DWTS’ below.

Bill Nye, partner Tyne Stecklein

Best known as “The Science Guy,” Bill Nye, 57, is an educational TV personality who told ABC he plans to use science to win. “It’s all physics; it’s all the study of motion,” he said. “I’m feeling great.”

Valerie Harper, partner Tristan MacManus

Valerie Harper, or the beloved Rhoda Morgenstern on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” was rumored to be a contestant on the series earlier this year. The 74-year-old actress was tragically diagnosed with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, a terminal brain cancer, this year but will not let it hold her back.

Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, partner Sasha Farber

Snooki, the pint-sized guidette of “Jersey Shore,” may be a new mother but mommy duty won’t keep her from this competition. The 25-year-old will be partnered with Sasha Farber for his “DWTS” debut, and Polizzi’s own debut of her rockin’ post-baby bod.

Jack Osbourne, partner Cheryl Burke

Just like his sister Kelly, who competed on “DWTS” in 2009, Jack Osbourne, son of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne, will join season 17. The 27-year-old was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis last June.

Leah Remini, partner Tony Dovolani

Leah Remini, the 43-year-old actress best known for “The King of Queens,” will partner with veteran pro Tony Dovolani. Remini most recently made headlines for her exit from the Church of Scientology.

Elizabeth Berkley Lauren, partner Valentin Chmerkovskiy

Talk about a blast from the past. Elizabeth Berkley Lauren, who played Jessie on the hit '90s sitcom “Saved by the Bell,” will compete this season. The 41-year-old new mom, who bared it all in the 1995 film “Showgirls,” also has a book out. Also, check her out today.

Keyshawn Johnson, partner Sharna Burgess

It wouldn’t be a new season of “Dancing with the Stars” without a pro athlete, which will be Keyshawn Johnson this season. The 41-year-old played for the New York Jets, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers and has one Super Bowl ring.

Bill Engvall, partner Emma Slater

Comedian Bill Engvall will bring the comic relief to season 17 of “DWTS.” The 56-year-old will be partnered with Emma Slater.

Christina Milian, partner Mark Ballas

Famous for her song “AM to PM” in 2001, Christina Milian will partner with Mark Ballas. Lately, the 31-year-old singer was a correspondent on “The Voice” and has a new album coming out.

Amber Riley, partner Derek Hough

Amber Riley, Mercedes from “Glee,” will team up with Derek Hough, despite losing cast member Cory Monteith earlier this summer. The 27-year-old actress will also be recording her first album this year.

Corbin Bleu, partner Karina Smirnoff

This 24-year-old actor may have an advantage thanks to years of dancing for his role in the “High School Musical” franchise. Corbin Bleu, who also does work on Broadway, will partner with veteran Karina Smirnoff.

Brant Daugherty, partner Peta Murgatroyd

He might be a new face for many, but Brant Daugherty is well-known for fans of “Pretty Little Liars.” The 28-year-old hunk of the ABC Family series will partner with Peta Murgatroyd.