Yep, you read that right; Jon M. Chu, the mastermind behind “Wicked” and the upcoming “Wicked: For Good,” stepped into the “Dancing with the Stars” ballroom for Wicked Night on October 21, 2025. And honestly? He was nervous. Like, sweaty-palms, heart-racing, live-TV nervous.
“It was so much pressure, I was so scared,” Chu told Parade. “They didn’t really prep me.”
It seems like even someone who’s used to bringing massive Broadway productions to the big screen can feel the heat of live television. And let’s be real… being a guest judge isn’t exactly a walk in the park. There’s no script, no take-two, and no waiting for a camera cut. You’re in the spotlight, and you have to make decisions fast.
The Pressure of Judging Live
Jon M. Chu explained just how tricky it was to jump into the judging role. “You have to do it right when it’s over,” he said. “So I’m processing… and then you have to press lock before you have any comments. So if you’re the first comment, you have to lock in and know what you’re about to say on live television.”
For someone who isn’t an actor, this was a whole new kind of challenge. “I am not an actor in any sort of way, so that was tricky. But they were so kind to me, they couldn’t have been more welcoming,” he added.
It seems like Chu handled the pressure like a pro, but his honesty makes you realize just how intense live TV really is. One second you’re soaking in the performance, the next you’re locking in a score while the audience is waiting for your every word. Fans of DWTS know this feeling all too well; and Chu’s transparency just makes it even more relatable.
‘Wicked: For Good’ Hits Theaters This Month
Outside the ballroom, Chu’s got a big month ahead. The sequel to “Wicked,” aptly titled “Wicked: For Good” hits theaters on November 21, 2025, and fans are ready to see what the director brings from Broadway to film this time. Chu’s experience behind the camera means he knows exactly how to make the magic translate, and it seems like the movie is shaping up to be a treat for long-time “Wicked” fans and newcomers alike.
Wicked Night on DWTS was the perfect place for Chu to flex both his worlds: one foot in the high-pressure, live-TV energy of the ballroom, the other deep in the fantasy of “Wicked.”
Why Jon M. Chu’s Comments Matter
Jon M. Chu’s experience is a reminder that even seasoned pros get nervous in a new setting. His honesty makes it easy to relate to the behind-the-scenes reality of live television, while also highlighting the warmth and encouragement that keeps DWTS feeling like a community; even for first-time judges.
“Dancing with the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8:00pm ET on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu.
