Fans of RTL's iconic dance show "Let's Dance" are excited as the 18th season kicks off on February 21, 2025. With the previous season's winner, Gabriel Kelly, leaving big shoes to fill, the competition is fierce as new and familiar faces take to the dance floor.
Competing this season are well-known personalities including actress Christine Neubauer (62), Olympic gymnast Fabian Hambüchen (37), and entertainer Marc Eggers (38). Each celebrity has partnered with professional dancers, hoping to dazzle the judges and viewers alike. Among the most notable contestants are singer Jeanette Biedermann (44), para-swimmer Taliso Engel (22), and stuntwoman Marie Mouroum (32), all ready to showcase their talents.
The premiere will see the celebrity contestants perform group dances, putting their best foot forward before individual performances start the following week. Viewers can anticipate vibrant performances set to popular songs, with this year's theme expected to embrace various dance styles.
"Let's Dance" stands out not just for its execution but for the emotional journeys of its contestants. During the introduction show, Neubauer expressed her delight after performing, stating, "This is so incredible, I’m so happy, it’s pure love hormone and I can fly now". Such revelations from contestants highlight the personal stakes involved beyond just winning the title.
The judging panel, comprised of the seasoned trio Motsi Mabuse (43), Jorge González (57), and Joachim Llambi (60), promises to provide balanced and constructive criticism, with Mabuse noting Engel’s impressive posture, saying "you have very nice body posture, your spine has potential". The feedback from the judges is indispensable as they help to guide the contestants toward improving their skills.
This season’s voting leagues are also significant. Each week starts without any eliminations during the premiere, allowing contestants to settle. Still, the pressure mounts with every dancer's performance as public votes can radically affect who stays and who goes. The interaction between the audience and the show adds unpredictability and engagement, turning viewers from passive watchers to active participants.
For many, entering "Let's Dance" fulfills long-held dreams of fame and performance. This sentiment resonates with all contestants; Angela Kelly, last year’s champion, expressed the desire to maintain the high standard set during his winning run. Beyond just competition, the show serves as a platform for newfound artists and veteran entertainers to rekindle their connections with fans.
Following the familiar format, the show will air weekly on Fridays. The first live show will take place on February 28, 2025. Over the course of twelve weeks, contestants will battle it out for the coveted title of Dancing Star, with eliminations commencing shortly after they begin.
Those tuning in can expect to see stunning choreography and exciting performances, but also to learn about the personal stories of each contestant, enriching the dance experience. The natural charisma and emotional expressiveness of the dancers will be on full display, inviting viewers to root for their favorites as the competition intensifies.
With past winners setting high bars, such as the remarkable Gabriel Kelly who achieved record-breaking scores last season, new celebrities will now strive to take the crown. The pressure mounts as each week progresses; pivotal moments will be captured live, delivering breathtaking performances and real-time feedback from viewers and judges alike.
Each performance will culminate with the opportunity for standout dancers to earn bonus points or direct passes to the next show, making for thrilling weekly surprises. Speculations abound as to which of the contestants possess the grace and agility to rise above the rest, and which charismatic star might walk home with the trophy at the end of the season.
The rich history of the show, celebrating stars like Rúrik Gíslason and Lili Paul-Roncalli, reinforces its cultural significance, showcasing how "Let's Dance" has become more than just another talent show. The series has not only entertained but also connected with audiences across generations.
Viewers can mark their calendars for the exciting evening of performances, drama, and emotional rollercoasters as the latest season of "Let's Dance" takes to the stage once again, promising to live up to its vibrant legacy and engage the hearts of millions.
Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the kickoff of Season 18 on February 21 at 20:15, as the dance couples take their first steps toward the coveted title.