Another season of Dancing With the Stars is here — but longtime pro Sasha Farber is noticeably missing from the ballroom.
When the season 34 cast was revealed on Good Morning America on Wednesday, September 3, Farber’s name wasn’t on the list of returning professionals. The absence didn’t go unnoticed by fans, many of whom have followed his DWTS journey since he first joined the show more than a decade ago.
In fact, some supporters even spotted the writing on the wall days before the official announcement. On Monday, September 1, a fan left a heartfelt comment on Farber’s TikTok, writing, “Sasha, this season will not be the same without you. I started watching in 2016 when I was stuck at home on leave from work, and you became a favorite.”
Farber seemed to hint at his exit while keeping the focus positive. “Really thank you so much !!!” he replied. “It’s going to be such a good season.”
Though he didn’t offer details, his response appeared to confirm he won’t be part of the competition this fall. Still, the dancer made it clear he’ll be cheering on his former cast mates from the sidelines.
Farber has been a staple on DWTS for years. He first appeared as a pro during season 17 in 2013, when he was partnered with Jersey Shore alum Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi. The pair finished in eighth place before Farber briefly stepped away from the series. He made his full-time return in season 22 in 2016, teaming up with Living Single actress Kim Fields and placing seventh.
From there, the fan-favorite became a fixture in the ballroom, appearing consistently from 2016 through 2024. His most recent run was alongside *Bachelorette* star Jenn Tran in season 33. The duo not only danced together but also sparked a showmance during their time on the show. However, the relationship came to an end this past June.
Farber isn’t the only familiar face missing this year. Fellow professionals Peta Murgatroyd, Artem Chigvintsev and Lindsay Arnold are also sitting out season 34. Arnold, who hasn’t competed since 2021, explained to fans in a recent TikTok that she isn’t ready to return just yet. “My reasons for not doing the show feel even more relevant than they did in the past,” she said, while leaving the door open for a possible comeback down the road.
Despite the shakeup, season 34 promises plenty of star power. Competing celebs include Jordan Chiles, Baron Davis, Dylan Efron, Danielle Fishel, Elaine Hendrix, Scott Hoying, Lauren Jauregui, Whitney Leavitt, Andy Richter, Corey Feldman, Alix Earle, Hilaria Baldwin and Jen Affleck, all paired with some of the show’s biggest remaining pros.
Dancing With the Stars season 34 premieres Tuesday, September 16, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and will stream live on Disney+.
