How ‘Dancing With The Stars’ Season 29 Could Be Affected By Coronavirus

The show has technically not yet been renewed for a 29th season yet, though it is expected to return for its usual Monday night runs on ABC in the Fall. However, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, “Dancing With the Stars” could wind up being negatively affected.

In new interviews with Entertainment Tonight, pros Cheryl Burke and Sharna Burgess revealed that as of now, there are still hopes the show’s production schedule won’t be interrupted, but because things change so often due to COVID-19, they can’t say for certain what will happen.

“I have no idea what’s going on to be quite honest, but I think everyone is just living it day by day and we will see what happens,” Burke said in reference to when the quarantine period could be expected to end. “...I’m hoping [we’ll be back on time]. Right now I keep hearing May and June. My birthday is May 3 and that’s fine. My anniversary is May 23 and that’s fine. As long as we can do another season of ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ I’m willing to give all of that up.”

Meanwhile, Burgess, who sat out Season 28 allegedly because of budget cuts, also revealed that while she isn’t sure if she is going to be back yet for Season 29, she thinks that things should hopefully stay on the course,

“As far as I know, ‘Dancing’ is planning on going ahead with their fall season, but these things change week to week right now,” she said. “I certainly hope that there is a way to figure it out because I think the world needs that kind of fun, carefree, loving show that’s just about seeing people do good and overcoming adversity. And dancing! Which brings everybody joy. So I hope that there’s an opportunity to put that show on.”

The pair’s comments come as social distancing measures have continued to remain in place in various parts of the country due to the ongoing outbreak and attempt to combat the virus once and for all. The show’s spring tour featuring several pro dancers and some of the previous seasons’ celebs was also canceled for its remaining dates due to the pandemic.

While the show has not yet been given an official renewal, the speculation over potential celebs that could participate has still been rampant since the end of Season 28 last November. Names that have floated have included Charlie Sheen, Ryan Shazier and Christie Brinkley, who was forced to drop out of Season 28 after sustaining an injury.