Dancing with the Stars: The Masters of the New Edition

The dance floor of Dancing with the Stars is filling up one name at a time. The 21st edition of the Rai 1 dance show kicks off on Saturday, October 3 , with Milly Carlucci still hosting. The cast of performers isn't complete, but the first announcements have arrived on social media, with humorous videos simulating the host's phone call.

The production team has confirmed the biggest names, those who viewers have seen win in recent seasons. The rest of the team will be announced in the coming weeks, along with the official competing couples.

The confirmations

Giovanni Pernice is back for the third consecutive year. The dancer from Palermo won in 2024 , partnered with Bianca Guaccero , and last year he guided Francesca Fialdini to second place. In the announcement video, he jokes about that placing and promises to get back to work right away.

Nikita Perotti , who won the show last season alongside Andrea Delogu , has also confirmed his return. His announcement also came with a video shot among the trees, interrupted by a call from the host. This is his third consecutive year on the show.

The newness

The most talked-about newcomer is Leonardo Lini , former host of Amici and brother of Giada Lini , the show's longtime host. Lini is the reigning champion of the Irish version of Dancing with the Stars and confirmed his appointment on social media, explaining that he's taking the spot vacated by Pasquale La Rocca.

Gioia Giovanatti , a Roman dancer with international experience, is making her debut . Her announcement recounts years of experience in the dance world and the thrill of joining the cast. The rest of the cast is expected in the coming days.

The format

The tried and tested mechanism remains the same: a group of contestants, each paired with a coach, judged by a jury and televoting. The competition assigns points week after week, until the final. The 21st edition confirms the Saturday evening appointment on Rai 1 , with the first episode on October 3rd.

Where to see it

The debut is scheduled for Saturday, October 3 in prime time on Rai 1. The episodes will then be available on demand on RaiPlay , along with extra content and behind-the-scenes footage of the show.