The Glitterball awaits: Dancing with the Stars unveils dance pairings for 2026

With the new season of Dancing with the Stars shimmering in the not-too-distant future this New Year, the celebrity and dancer pairings of the twelve couples have been revealed. The series returns to brighten our Sundays on RT One and RT Player from Sunday 4 January at 6.30pm.

This year, Dancing with the Stars welcomes three new professional dancers to the DWTS family: Arianna Favaro, Leonardo Lini, and James Cutler.

Pairing up to sparkle on screens this season are:

Eurovision winner and singer Niamh Kavanagh and Stephen Vincent

Stars are in her eyes as Niamh Kavanagh teams up with Stephen Vincent to take to the dancefloor. Stephen was paired last year with Niamh's good friend and podcast co-host Gear id Farrelly, so we may see some friendly competition there on and off screen!

Paudie Moloney from The Traitors Ireland and Laura Nolan

The nation's Daddy Paudie Moloney is paired with Laura Nolan, who took home the Glitterball Trophy last year with Rhys McClenaghan. This is Laura's sixth season on the dancefloor and, being paired with Paudie, we are guaranteed to see a few treacherous twists and turns ahead.

Reigning Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins and Leonardo Lini

Newcomer Leonardo Lini is paired with Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins, who was presented with the title earlier this year after dancing a jive live on stage. Leonardo is an Italian dancer, known for his talent in Latin-American, ballroom, and modern dance. But how are his jiving skills?

Comedian and actor Michael Fry and Kylee Vincent

Known for his comedic acting and stand-up, Michael Fry is teaming up with returning dancer Kylee Vincent, who is back on the dancefloor after her maternity leave. As Michael puts on his dancing shoes, Kylee and husband Stephen will both have that Glitterball Trophy in their sights.

Fair City actress Stephanie Kelly and Ervinas Merfeldas

From the Fair City set to the dancefloor, Stephanie Kelly is paired with pro dancer Ervinas Merfeldas from Kildare, who is embarking on his fourth season of Dancing with the Stars. Ervinas wowed audiences last year with partner Kayleigh Trappe as they reached the final. This year, Ervinas and Stephanie will be looking to waltz their way into the hearts of the public.

LINK:	https://about.rte.ie/2025/12/17/the-glitterball-awaits-dancing-with-th...
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