Sasha Farber Returns to DWTS Season 34, This Time Behind the Scenes
Sasha Farber is making a return to Dancing With the Stars, but not as a competing pro this time. The popular dancer, 41, will be streaming backstage during the Season 34 premiere on Tuesday, September 16. ABC shared the news via Instagram on Monday, September 15, teasing fans with, “Ready for more behind the scenes? 🤩 We’re going LIVE on TikTok with @sashafarber1 TOMORROW to celebrate the #DWTS Premiere!” Fans quickly responded with excitement in the comments, expressing both joy and longing to see Farber on the dance floor again.
Farber’s Absence from the Competition
Earlier in September, the official pro lineup for Season 34 was revealed, and Farber’s name was notably missing. Having joined DWTS in 2013, he has been a fan favorite over the years. On September 3, Farber addressed his absence in an Instagram Story video: “It is a beautiful day today. Guys, the Dancing With the Stars cast announcement was today. Wow, so many good names,” he said. “Who are you going to vote for? I mean, I know who I’m going to vote for. I know who you’re not going to vote for — that’s me. But that’s OK.”
Despite not competing, Farber reassured fans he would stay involved. He shared his excitement about the backstage access, saying, “Can’t wait to showwwwww you guys around the ballroom and take you backstage !!!!!!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍.” Fans eagerly chimed in with supportive messages such as, “OH HELL YES! We want Sasha to be a part!!!” and “Happy to have him backstage, but would have been much happier seeing him on the dance floor 🥹.”
Behind the Scenes: A Star-Studded Season
Season 34 kicks off with a lineup of celebrity contestants and returning pros, though a few familiar faces, including Farber, are absent from the dance floor. The cast announcement aired on Good Morning America on September 3, featuring returning pros Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy competing alongside new celebrity participants. Other notable pairings include Hilaria Baldwin with Gleb Savchenko, Corey Feldman with Jenna Johnson, Danielle Fishel with Pasha Pashkov, and Farber’s ex-wife Emma Slater teaming up with Andy Richter.
Farber and Slater finalized their divorce in May 2024. Since then, Slater has entered a new relationship with fellow DWTS pro Alan Bersten, who will dance with Elaine Hendrix this season.
Why Pros Don’t Always Return
The decision for pros to return is often influenced by multiple factors, such as height, personality, and scheduling logistics. Val Chmerkovskiy, speaking to Us Weekly at the VMAs, clarified that Farber’s absence was not personal but simply part of the nature of the business. He emphasized that the show’s rotating roster means even beloved pros may not always appear on the floor each season.
Farber has expressed gratitude to his fans for their continued support, saying, “Thank you all so much for all your incredible messages. I read them all, I see it all, I adore you. I definitely don’t deserve you because you guys are amazing. I love you.”
When and Where to Watch
Dancing With the Stars Season 34 premieres on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesday, September 16, at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can also stream episodes the following day on Hulu. With Farber providing exclusive behind-the-scenes access, viewers are in for a fresh perspective on the glitz, drama, and dance moves that make DWTS a must-watch reality series.
