Corey Feldman Dazzles on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Premiere

Lead Corey Feldman made a surprising-and energetic-return to the spotlight Monday night, stepping onto the “Dancing with the Stars” ballroom alongside partner Jenna Johnson for a tango to Billy Joel’s “It’s Still Rock & Roll to Me.”

Nut Graf The former child star’s debut on Season 34 of “DWTS” on ABC and Disney+ not only marked a bold new chapter in his career but also underscored his commitment to tackling fresh creative challenges at age 54. Feldman’s performance came after a brief rehearsal absence sparked fan speculation, and unfolded against the backdrop of judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s announced illness-related absence from the premiere.

Main Part

  • Unexpected Absence Behind the Scenes Feldman’s rehearsal with Jenna Johnson resumed on September 8 after the pro revealed they hadn’t met since the cast announcement on Good Morning America. Johnson later posted a lighthearted studio selfie to confirm, “Omg we’re BACK!!!!”
  • Tango Unleashed For their opening routine, Feldman and Johnson embraced classic ballroom form, gliding through sharp steps set to Billy Joel’s upbeat anthem. Their chemistry and Feldman’s stage presence earned enthusiastic applause from the live audience.
  • Judging Panel Adjustment Carrie Ann Inaba, sidelined by an undisclosed illness, sat out the premiere, leaving judges Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough to deliver critiques alongside guest host Julianne Hough. Inaba is expected to return when the show continues next week.
  • A New Career High Note Feldman, known for ’80s hits like The Goonies and Stand by Me, told TMZ en route to rehearsals that mastering ballroom was “a lot of work but a gift to be a student again.” He also teased new music projects, with three EPs slated for release this fall.
  • Season 34 Lineup Snapshot Alongside Feldman, Season 34 features figures from diverse fields: Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, social influencer Alix Earle, wildlife advocate Robert Irwin, and reality stars from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, among others.

Next Week’s Tease With fan voting now open, viewers can look forward to more routines across tango, cha-cha, salsa, and jive-and a full panel of judges rejuvenated by Carrie Ann Inaba’s return.