As the “Dancing With the Stars” season 35 premiere inches closer, many fans are eagerly guessing the celebrities joining the cast. ABC confirmed a few stars, including Maura Higgins and Jackson Olson.
However, there are several names that are almost certainly joining the cast, as reported by several news outlets. Jenna Dewan, Julia Stiles, and Conner Leavitt are among them.
Although there have been several leaks, there are still many unknowns and surprises in store. In a new social media update, head judge Derek Hough caught plenty of fans off guard with an unexpected announcement.
However, not everyone realized the 41-year-old was merely joking and getting on board with a new social media trend.
Derek Hough Fools Fans With His Latest Instagram Post
Derek Hough is certainly returning to “Dancing With the Stars” this fall. He’s going to be the head judge for another season, but his recent social media update had plenty of fans fooled.
“When Celine calls you answer. Just waiting for the call📞” the DWTS judge captioned his Instagram post.
Derek Hough hopped on board the latest social media trend where influencers pretend they’re being announced as the next celeb on “Dancing With the Stars.” In his post, Hough announced the legendary Celine Dion as the next contestant with himself as her dance partner.
The 41-year-old also attached a video clip of the time he met Celine Dion. He and his wife Hayley Erbert Hough have always been huge fans and treasured the moment.
Plenty of fans immediately realized it was a joke. However, many didn’t catch on.
“With her health how is that even possible. This is a lot of work. I hope her body can handle it,” one Instagram user wrote.
“This is such a powerful duo!!! Wishing you both the best of luck!!!!” another added.
“Please read caption 😂” Hough eventually added to the comments after a while.
“Don’t play with us like that Derek,” another fan wrote in after realizing the joke.
“I just know some entertainment news site is gonna fall for this,” a fan chimed in.
Other Actors & Influencers Get in on the Trend
This wouldn’t be the first time “Dancing With the Stars” were bewildered by a surprise announcement like this. However, it is the first time someone from the show made the announcement, adding to the confusion.
Earlier this week, actor Brad Deiter jokingly announced he was joining DWTS season 35 and partnering with Julianne Hough, Derek’s younger sister.
“Secret is out! This was not an easy one to keep! Read the pinned comment for more details!” Deiter posted on Instagram.
“JUST kidding but I will be watching this season!! Also, wouldn’t that be crazy!!! 🤪 😂” Deiter followed up in the comments.
“You had me coming out of retirement!!!!” Julianne Hough laughed after noticing the post.
The real “Dancing With the Stars” season 35 cast announcement takes place on “Good Morning America” the morning of Wednesday, September 2. The season premiere starts at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 16, on ABC.
