Here’s Who’s Potentially Kicking Off DWTS Next Week...Now That We Know What the Lineup *Really* Means

As Dancing With the Stars prepares for its upcoming Super Bowl Night episode on October 13, the reveal of the performance lineup is attracting attention not only for the dances and music selections but also for what the order of appearances might signify. According to an Entertainment Weekly release, the roster includes a mix of samba, salsa, jazz, tango, and paso doble routines set to high-energy tracks from well-known artists like J Balvin, Shakira, Usher, and Lady Gaga.

The lineup features Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov opening with a samba to “Mi Gente” by J Balvin and Willy William. Following them are Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold also performing a samba, while Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach are set for a salsa number. Other notable pairings include Jenna Dewan with Val Chmerkovskiy performing a paso doble to Lady Gaga's “Bad Romance” and Maura Higgins with Mark Ballas tackling a tango.

While the order released does not definitively confirm the sequence of dances during the live broadcast, analysis suggests that the positioning may be strategic. Former DWTS champion Bobby Bones recently highlighted that dancers placed at the top of each hour during live broadcasts are typically those whom producers want to emphasize. This positioning is critical in maximizing audience exposure, especially as viewers might switch channels at the hour mark.

If the lineup order is indeed reflective of the performance sequence, the choice to have Amber and Pasha start the show underscores their current popularity with fans and the production team’s intent to showcase them prominently. This opening spot is considered a coveted slot because it captures the attention of both live viewers and those tuning in midway through the broadcast.

Similarly, the first act after the hour break is anticipated to be Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy. This placement also carries weight, as it benefits from renewed viewer attention following a commercial or network break. Such strategic scheduling plays a vital role in maintaining audience engagement throughout the night.

The musical choices accompanying the dances reflect a diverse range of genres and eras, from contemporary Latin hits by Bad Bunny to classic pop and hip-hop influences in numbers like “Uptown Funk” and “Jenny From the Block.” This variety not only appeals to a broad demographic but also allows dancers to showcase versatility and connect with viewers through familiar tracks.

While the details about the exact running order and any potential adjustments during the live show remain limited, the emerging insight into how DWTS producers allocate performance slots sheds light on the intricate planning behind the scenes. These choices impact not only the narrative of the competition but also the visibility and momentum of the contestants.

As the season progresses, understanding the nuances of lineup placement offers a window into the competitive dynamics and fan engagement strategies that shape the show’s production. For now, the Super Bowl Night promises a vibrant mix of dance styles and musical flair, with certain performers positioned to capture the spotlight from the very start.