RTÉ’s Dancing With The Stars Future Uncertain as New Line-Up Revealed

RTÉ has announced its new television line-up for the upcoming season, but the popular show Dancing With The Stars is noticeably absent from the schedule. Discussions regarding the show’s potential return in January are still ongoing, according to Larry Bass, the chief of ShinAwiL, the production company behind the programme.

During a recent interview with the Irish Mirror, Bass expressed optimism about the future of the show. He noted that while conversations continue, a formal contract has yet to be established. “These things take time,” he said, adding that summer delays have affected progress. “Hopefully we will be doing a series, but until there is a contract, there is nothing contracted.”

Bass provided insight into the current status of negotiations, likening the situation to a peace process. “Until something is there to lock and load, we can’t say for definite that the show will be back,” he explained. When asked about the likelihood of the programme’s return, he estimated an 80 percent chance but emphasized that no confirmation could be given until an agreement is finalized. “I would be shocked and stunned if they axed it at this point,” he added, highlighting that the decision ultimately rests with RTÉ.

An RTÉ spokesperson confirmed that an official announcement about the show will be made before the broadcaster’s spring schedule launch in December. This news comes alongside major changes in another popular RTÉ programme, Ireland’s Fittest Family, which has introduced three new coaches. The revamped series will feature Ellen Keane, a Paralympic champion swimmer, along with former Dublin footballer Michael Darragh MacAuley and ex-Ireland rugby international Andrew Trimble.

Steve Carson, Director of Video at RTÉ, spoke at the launch of the new schedule, emphasizing the variety of content set to entertain audiences. “The coming months on RTÉ sees an unbeatable mix of quality Irish programmes with something for everyone,” he stated. The new season will include notable events like the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the men’s Autumn Nations Series, alongside the return of the Late Late Show, hosted by Patrick Kielty, on September 12, 2023.

The autumn schedule also marks the tenth anniversary of the audience-favourite The Late Late Country Music Special. Carson expressed gratitude towards RTÉ’s partners in the independent sector, acknowledging their contributions to delivering high-quality Irish content. “We’re incredibly grateful to all of our partners in the independent sector and the teams in RTÉ who continue in their mission to deliver quality Irish content for Irish audiences,” he said.

As audiences await further news about the future of Dancing With The Stars, the focus now shifts to the exciting developments in RTÉ’s programming that promise to engage viewers in the coming months.