March 1, 2025 - The much-anticipated dance competition show 'Let's Dance' has kicked off its 18th season on RTL, and it has already delivered thrilling performances and unexpected outcomes. With 14 celebrities showcasing their skills, the competition to win the title of 'Dancing Star 2025' has begun, but it hasn’t been smooth sailing for everyone involved.
Introduced on February 21, the season started with excitement as the pairs formed and practices began. Each contestant aimed to impress the judges and the audience, who play a significant role in determining who stays and who goes. This season features professional dancers partnering with celebrities, raising the stakes for everyone involved. The celebrity contestants included well-known figures from various backgrounds, all eager to show off their dance moves.
But the first major decision has already been made: Osan Yaran, the 38-year-old comedian, along with his dance partner Christina Hänni, was eliminated after receiving the least votes from the audience during the first regular live show on February 28. Despite Yaran's humorous charm and the efforts of his partner, the duo was unable to gather enough viewer support to continue, finishing with only ten points from the judges.
“It’s incredibly disappointing to leave the competition so soon,” Yaran admitted, reflecting on what was clearly a challenging night. His time on the show was particularly short as this marked his first performance. The couple danced the tango to Shawn Mendes' hit "There's Nothing Holding Me Back,” but it apparently did not resonate enough with the audience.
Despite the setback for Yaran, the competition continues, with contestants like Para-swimmer Taliso Engel managing to secure their place for week two, having earned the coveted direct ticket during the preliminary show. Engel's emotional performance certainly struck a chord with viewers, illustrating the diverse talent pool the show has attracted.
Joachim Llambi, Motsi Mabuse, and Jorge González make up this season's esteemed judging panel, responsible for critiquing the performances and assigning scores. Their feedback is pivotal, as demonstrated by some contestants' reactions to the critiques, including influencer Paola Maria, who faced significant criticism for her performance.
The hosts of 'Let's Dance' remain the beloved duo of Daniel Hartwich and Victoria Swarovski. Hartwich has established himself as a prominent face on RTL, known for his charismatic hosting style across numerous formats. Swarovski, having once participated as a contestant and claimed the title of 'Dancing Star 2016,' brings unique insights to the show as she guides viewers through the competition.
Swarovski stated, “We want to make this season memorable for both the contestants and the audience,” underscoring her commitment to promoting not just the humor and competition of the show, but also its emotional connections.
Recent developments have added pressure to the competition: two contestants, Leyla Lahouar and Jeanette Biedermann, had to withdraw due to illness. Their absence attracted attention and concern, sparking discussions about how these changes might affect the dynamics within the competition. Fortunately, RTL has indicated both would likely return for the next round, enabling them to continue their journeys.
Beyond the competition’s upheavals, the premiere showcased exhilarating group performances, leaving viewers eager for more. Past 'Let’s Dance' winner Gabriel Kelly thrilled the audience with his return accompanied by last season’s partner, Malika Dzumaev. Their tango was met with applause and even received standing ovations from the judges, emphasizing the caliber of dance skills featured this year.
With tensions still high and the possibility of eliminations looming each week, viewers remain on the edge of their seats. Week one has revealed surprises and fierce competitors, and as the season progresses, participants will need fan support and strong performances to avoid early elimination.
The show combines not just dance, but personal stories and aspirations, inviting millions of viewers to tune in week after week. The stakes are high—not just for trophies, but for career reinventions and emotional milestones for those taking the stage. This season of 'Let's Dance' promises to deliver stories of triumph, failure, and everything in between as celebrities put their danced-filled journeys on display.