DWTS Season 34 Finale Introduces Exciting New Format Changes

The finale of the 34th season of *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS) is set to take place on November 25, 2023, and it promises to be one of the most challenging events in the show’s history. This season, the competition format is undergoing a significant overhaul, as announced during the recent semifinals episode.

During the broadcast on November 18, co-host Alfonso Ribeiro revealed to viewers that the finale will feature three distinct rounds of competition, marking a first for the series. Ribeiro stated, “Next week, we’re taking over all of ABC in primetime with our most demanding season finale in the history of the show.”

The new format includes several exciting elements. The first round, dubbed “Instant Dances,” will require contestants to learn and perform a dance to a surprise song live on the show. The second round, “Make-or-Break Freestyle,” introduces an unrestricted routine that will heavily influence viewer voting. Finally, the “Judges’ Choice” round allows the judges to select a specific routine or dance style for the couples to perform.

With the level of talent showcased this season, co-host Julianne Hough emphasized the importance of tuning in, stating, “With all the incredible talent this season, you don’t want to miss it.”

The semifinals highlighted the strength of the contestants, with several couples achieving perfect scores. Judges praised performances, including that of Robert Irwin and Witney Carson, whose jive to “Baby I’m a Star” earned high acclaim. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba remarked, “That is how you tell everyone that you demand to be in the finale… That was insane—so clean, so sharp, so buoyant, so fun!”

Other standout performances included Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy, who received a perfect score for their Viennese waltz to “Purple Rain.” Judge Derek Hough commended Earle’s transformation into a skilled dancer, expressing confidence in her potential to reach the finals. Meanwhile, Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten captivated judges with their routine set to “When Doves Cry,” prompting Bruno Tonioli to declare it a “regal performance… Majestic.”

As anticipation builds for the finale on ABC, viewers are eager to see how the newly introduced format will impact the competition and which couples will ultimately secure the top spots. The upcoming finale promises to deliver an exhilarating conclusion to a season filled with remarkable performances and emotional moments.