DWTS 2026 Live Tour: Notable Absences and Contestant Reflections
The excitement surrounding the upcoming Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) 2026 live tour is palpable, yet not all beloved pros and contestants will be gracing the stage. As the show gears up for another round of performances, several notable figures have opted out, each with their own reasons.
The Thrill of Live Performance
Gabby Windey, a finalist from season 31 and the host of the recent tour, expressed her passion for live performances. “Performing in front of a live audience is like a drug,” she shared in a February 2023 interview with the Cincinnati Enquirer. However, she also noted the challenges of life on the road, particularly the difficulties of sleeping on a tour bus.
Season 33 winner Joey Graziadei reflected on his tour experience, stating that sharing the stage with professional dancers was one of his favorite memories. He emphasized the incredible support from fans, calling it “the experience of a lifetime.”
Notable Absences from the Tour
Despite the excitement, several DWTS alumni will not be participating in the 2026 tour. Here’s a closer look at their reasons:
Rylee Arnold
Pro dancer Rylee Arnold had to withdraw from the spring 2025 shows due to an ankle injury. In an emotional social media video, she explained, “My doctor did not OK me to get back to dancing right now.” Arnold later opted out of the 2026 tour to focus on her health, particularly managing her Type 1 diabetes.
Gleb Savchenko
Fellow pro Gleb Savchenko also announced his decision to skip the tour. “I’m not going on tour. I’m gonna go see my kids for a few weeks over the holidays,” he shared with Us Weekly. Savchenko emphasized the importance of focusing on himself during this time.
Julianne Hough
Former mirrorball champion Julianne Hough was initially slated to perform during select 2024 live shows but had to cancel due to a scheduling conflict. “I’ve been so looking forward to connecting with all our amazing fans,” she lamented in a February 2024 statement.
Sasha Farber
Sasha Farber, a seasoned DWTS pro, chose to sit out the winter 2025 tour to take a break. “I wanted to just emotionally have a break,” he explained in a podcast interview, acknowledging the strength of the current tour cast.
Jenn Tran
Former Bachelorette Jenn Tran expressed her disappointment at not being invited to join the tour. “I felt like with tour, I was gonna be able to hold onto this feeling a little bit longer,” she shared in an Instagram video, revealing her emotional response to the news.
Conclusion
As the DWTS 2026 live tour approaches, the absence of these talented individuals is felt deeply by fans and fellow dancers alike. Each has their own journey and reasons for stepping back, whether it be health concerns, family commitments, or the need for a break. The excitement for the tour remains high, with the promise of new performances and unforgettable moments.
In summary, while the stage will shine with many familiar faces, the stories of those who will not be joining add a layer of depth to the upcoming tour. Their reflections remind us of the personal journeys behind the glitz and glamour of the ballroom.