Credit: ABCJust hours before the highly anticipated season 34 premiere of Dancing with the Stars on September 16, judge Carrie Ann Inaba made the difficult decision to withdraw from the live episode after falling ill. The seasoned judge, who has been a staple on the show since its debut in 2005, was unable to join her fellow panelists for the opening night of the hit ABC competition show.
A Seat Left Empty
As the show went live, hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough addressed Inaba’s absence, reassuring viewers that she would be back soon.
“It’s great to have all of you at home joining us in the ballroom and wonderful to see our judges—well, two of them,” Ribeiro said with a warm smile. “Carrie Ann is under the weather and hopes to be back with us next week.”
Hough also sent well wishes to Inaba, adding, “Get well soon, Carrie Ann. We love you.”
In Inaba’s absence, fellow judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli stepped in to provide their expert commentary as the celebrity contestants—Hilaria Baldwin, Jordan Chiles, Dylan Efron, and Danielle Fishel—prepared to perform their debut routines of the season with their professional dance partners. Despite the unexpected change, the show proceeded as planned, with the remaining judges offering their feedback on the night’s performances.
An Exciting Season Ahead
Earlier that day, Inaba had informed fans and the show’s production team of her illness, though she was optimistic about making a quick return to the judging panel.
I wanted to share that I will not be at the show tonight as I am feeling quite under the weather. I’m resting up and can’t wait to be back next week in good health,” she said in a statement.
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba will miss tonight’s premiere due to being under the weather. No word on who will take her place on the panel for tonight’s episode. #DWTS pic.twitter.com/UKDvz2SraT
— The DWTS Report (@dwtsreport) September 16, 2025
As one of the original judges on Dancing with the Stars, Inaba has become a beloved figure in the ballroom, known for her insightful critiques and her supportive rapport with contestants. Her absence was certainly felt, but her colleagues and fans are already looking forward to her swift recovery and return to the show.
With the season officially underway, viewers can expect more exciting performances, heartfelt moments, and perhaps a few surprises as the competition heats up over the next few weeks. Inaba’s absence is a reminder of how unpredictable live television can be, but with a strong team in place, Dancing with the Stars is sure to continue captivating its audience.