ABC has finally announced the professional dancers who will compete in the 21st season of "Dancing with the Stars."
According to Access Hollywood, the professional cast members were announced on "Good Morning America" on Aug. 20. Derek Hough, who has competed two times before for a mirror ball trophy, will be back to take a last stab at winning the dancing competition. Former contestants Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Peta Murgatroyd and Mark Ballas will also return to join the professional dancer line-up. Sharna Burgess, Witney Carson, Artem Chigvintstev, and Allison Holker will also compete again for the dancing title.
Karina Smirnoff announced via social media she would be returning to the show after a season hiatus. According to Access Hollywood, she announced her departure from "DWTS" on Facebook in February. "Many of you have been asking if I will be back for season 20 of DWTS and I wanted all of my incredible family to hear it directly from me. After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume," she wrote.
"I will always have a special place in my heart for it," she wrote. "I am thrilled that now you will be seeing more of me in new arenas in the days and weeks to come. My first book We're Just Not That Into You - Dating Disasters From the Trenches was released today and I look forward to hearing from you as you read it! I love all of you so very much and couldn't feel more grateful for your support in all that I do! Xo Karina," she added.
Fans will be excited to know the dancer and author will back. Smirnoff and professional ABC took to their social media accounts to surprise fans.
Welcome back to #dwts, @Karina_Smirnoff! https://t.co/84ObChVgpB
— Official DWTS (@DancingABC) August 18, 2015
In a 21-second clip Karina says "Hi guys! Guess what? I just couldn't's stay away. I'm back. The new season of 'Dancing with the Stars' starts on September 14th on ABC at 8pm. Tune in!" The clip is paired with a dramatic slow-motion hair flip and a sweet wave from the tiny dancer.
Unfortunately judge, Len Goodman will not return due to conflicting schedules. DWTS Executive Producer Rob Wade said, "Len will not be returning as a judge this season on 'Dancing with the Stars' due to his schedule as a judge on 'Strictly Come Dancing' in the UK and the birth of his new grandson." However, he added Goodman, may make an appearance. "He still might be involved in the season at some capacity, but we will have to wait and see." Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Julianne Hough will return as judges.
Celebrity contestants will be announced Sept. 2 on "Good Morning America" followed by the premiere on Sept. 14 on ABC.