UNITED STATES — September 22, 2026: The Dancing With the Stars troupe is back for Season 35 with a mix of familiar faces and one notable newcomer. Kamri Peterson joins the troupe for the first time, alongside returning dancers Onye Stevenson, Jaxon Willard and Carter Williams.
Who Is in the DWTS Season 35 Troupe?
Stevenson, Willard and Williams all return from Season 34, while Peterson joins after previously competing as a professional on Dancing With the Stars: Juniors. Hailey Bills, who was part of last season's troupe, moved into the professional-couple lineup for Season 35.
Kamri Peterson
Peterson is a decorated ballroom dancer who previously appeared as a professional on Dancing With the Stars: Juniors. Her résumé includes World ProAm championship honors, three Latin National vice-champion finishes and 12 Latin finals.
Onye Stevenson
Stevenson returns after her Season 34 troupe debut. She is a USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance alumna and has also worked in social media and marketing.
Jaxon Willard
Willard is back for his second season in the troupe. His performance résumé includes work connected with major music and entertainment productions, including appearances associated with Rihanna and Madonna.
Carter Williams
Williams also returns for a second season. His background includes leading dance at Weber State University, competing at the UDA College Dance Team National Championship, touring with Derek Hough's Symphony of Dance and reaching the final stages of So You Think You Can Dance.
What Does the DWTS Troupe Actually Do?
The troupe helps create opening numbers, visual transitions and larger ensemble routines that make the weekly show feel like a live stage production. Their work becomes especially visible on theme nights.
Why Hailey Bills Is No Longer in the Troupe
Bills was promoted to the professional cast for Season 35 and is paired with Sarah Jane Nader. That change opened a troupe position for Peterson.
Watch DWTS Season 35
ABC currently lists Dancing With the Stars Tuesdays at 8/7c, with a live Disney+ simulcast.
DWTS Troupe FAQ
Who is new to the DWTS troupe in 2026?
Kamri Peterson.
Who returned to the troupe?
Onye Stevenson, Jaxon Willard and Carter Williams.
Why isn't Hailey Bills in the troupe?
She was promoted to the professional cast for Season 35 and is paired with Sarah Jane Nader.
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