DWTS Stars Reflect on Skipping Upcoming Live Tour Performances

As the highly anticipated Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) live tour approaches in 2026, several prominent pros and contestants have announced their decisions to skip the upcoming performances. While many former contestants relish the chance to return to the stage, others have opted out for various personal and health-related reasons.

In a recent statement, Gabby Windey, a finalist from season 31 and host of the previous tour, expressed her enthusiasm for the live shows. “I think performing in front of a live audience is like a drug,” she shared with the Cincinnati Enquirer. Windey acknowledged the challenges of touring, particularly the difficulty of sleeping on a tour bus, but emphasized the joy of connecting with fans.

Season 33 champion Joey Graziadei also reflected on the experience, stating via Instagram in April 2025 that the camaraderie among dancers was unforgettable. “The support that we felt all season was unbelievable,” Graziadei noted, highlighting the energy and love from audiences during their U.S. tour.

Despite the excitement surrounding the tour, not all former contestants are participating. Rylee Arnold had to withdraw from the spring 2025 performances due to an ankle injury. In an emotional video posted in April 2025, she explained, “My doctor did not OK me to get back to dancing right now. I’m going to be resting and healing at this time.” Arnold later decided to forgo the 2026 tour to prioritize her health, particularly managing her Type 1 diabetes, which she was diagnosed with at age 15. “I’ll definitely be cheering everyone on and can’t wait to watch,” she said.

Another notable absence will be Gleb Savchenko, who confirmed in an interview with Us Weekly in October 2025 that he would not participate in the upcoming tour. “I’m going to see my kids for a few weeks over the holidays,” he stated, indicating a desire to focus on his family.

Initially planned to perform in select 2024 shows, Julianne Hough announced that a scheduling conflict would prevent her from joining the tour. “I’ve been so looking forward to connecting with all our amazing fans,” she stated in a February 2024 social media post.

Other former contestants also shared their disappointment regarding the tour. Sasha Farber, a veteran of DWTS, opted out of the winter 2025 tour for personal reasons. “I wanted to just emotionally have a break,” Farber explained during a December 2024 podcast appearance.

Former Bachelorette Jenn Tran expressed her sadness over not being invited to join the tour. In a November 2024 Instagram video, she recounted her reaction to the news: “I started sobbing when I learned that I was excluded from the cast list.” Tran reflected on her time on the show, stating, “I really did have the best two months of my life dancing.”

With a mix of excitement and disappointment surrounding the upcoming DWTS live tour, fans can look forward to performances from returning stars while also feeling for those who have chosen to sit out. Each dancer brings a unique story and perspective to the stage, contributing to the ongoing legacy of this beloved show.