Dancing With the Stars Will Host Super Bowl Night
The competition will feature routines set to iconic halftime show songs on October 13.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Football
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Dancing With the Stars will dedicate its October 13 episode to a Super Bowl theme. Eleven remaining couples will perform routines set to music from past halftime shows.
Why it matters
The special episode serves as a thematic tribute to the Super Bowl ahead of its upcoming broadcast. It bridges the gap between the popular dance competition and one of the most-watched sporting events in the United States.
A total of 11 couples remain in the competition for the upcoming episode. The series, currently in its 35th season, airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.
The players
Dancing With the Stars
This long-running reality competition series features celebrities paired with professional dancers who perform routines for a panel of judges.
ABC
This major American commercial broadcast television network serves as the primary outlet for the program and the upcoming Super Bowl broadcast.
The details
Couples will interpret songs famously performed during former Super Bowl shows as they compete to remain in the program. The broadcast will be available on ABC and Disney+, with streaming options on Hulu.
Timeline
The Super Bowl Night episode airs on October 13, 2026.
Super Bowl LXI is scheduled for February 14, 2027.
Season Trajectory
The Super Bowl Night episode follows a promotional pattern established by the upcoming Super Bowl LXI broadcast. By aligning with major sports milestones, the show aims to maintain engagement levels as the competition narrows toward the season finale.
Viewers can expect to see 11 couples compete for their spots in the ongoing season 35 standings. The special theme provides a unique opportunity for fans to see classic halftime show songs integrated into the standard judging format.
The takeaway
The event highlights how reality television utilizes major cultural touchstones to increase viewer interest. Fans of both the show and the NFL should look for how the dance routines incorporate visual elements associated with past championship halftime performances.
Further reading
Learn more about the intersection of sport and entertainment in our Football section.
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