Cynthia Erivo to Guest Judge Dancing With the Stars
The award-winning performer will join the panel for Disney Night on November 2, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Dance
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Emmy, Grammy, and Tony-winning entertainer Cynthia Erivo is set to guest judge an episode of Dancing With the Stars airing on November 2, 2026. This special Disney Night broadcast will feature eight celebrity contestants.
Why it matters
The appearance of high-profile guest judges often brings unique professional insight to the competition, particularly during themed nights. The upcoming episode is moving to a Sunday slot to avoid scheduling conflicts with Election Day.
A panel of four judges will evaluate the performance of eight celebrities during the Disney-themed episode. The season is currently on track for a finale on November 24, 2026, which is expected to feature four remaining teams.
The players
Cynthia Erivo
She is an acclaimed entertainer who has achieved the rare milestone of winning an Emmy, a Grammy, and a Tony Award.
Carrie Ann Inaba
She is a long-standing judge on the panel for the dance competition series.
Derek Hough
He is a professional dancer and recurring judge on the program.
Bruno Tonioli
He is a well-known choreographer and permanent judge on the competition panel.
The details
Cynthia Erivo, who played the Blue Fairy in the 2022 live-action Pinocchio film, will take her place at the judges' table alongside Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli. The episode will air one day earlier than the program's usual schedule.
Timeline
November 2, 2026: Cynthia Erivo serves as guest judge on Disney Night
November 24, 2026: Dancing With the Stars season finale
Industry Dynamics
The use of star-studded guest judges is a recurring strategy in the reality competition space to boost engagement during themed episodes. This move connects the show to the 2022 live-action Pinocchio film, aligning the competition's brand with broader studio franchise promotion.
Viewers should note that this episode will air on November 2, 2026, which is one day earlier than the usual broadcast schedule. The show is available to watch on ABC.
The takeaway
Disney Night episodes often require contestants to embrace challenging character-based choreography. Fans watching the broadcast should expect the guest judge to offer specific feedback based on her extensive experience in musical theater and film.
What happens next
The Dancing With the Stars season finale is scheduled to take place on November 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the latest performances and competition updates, visit the Dance section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Just Jared.
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