Derek Hough Hints at New DWTS Bachelorette Spot Replacement

ABC abruptly pulled Season 22 of The Bachelorette days before its scheduled premiere. The network made the decision after footage surfaced showing a 2023 domestic violence incident involving lead Taylor Frankie Paul and her on-again, off-again partner Dakota Mortensen.

Reports also said a separate February incident prompted a production pause on Taylor’s Hulu series. Fans and industry observers quickly asked what would fill the two-hour Sunday slot vacated by the show.

Derek Hough’s public tease

Derek Hough left a brief comment that stirred speculation. He responded to an Instagram reel by influencer Abbey Bonadies that suggested an emergency Dancing With the Stars all-stars run.

On the post, Hough wrote that “something is on its way.” The short remark prompted excitement among pros and former contestants.

Reactions from cast and alumni

Several DWTS professionals replied with enthusiasm. Jenna Johnson wrote “Allstar season?!?!!! Let’s GO!!!!!” and Witney Carson added “Signed.”

Former competitors also expressed interest. Lisa Rinna, who competed in 2006, said she would return. Amanda Kloots, a season 30 alum, wrote she would go back in a heartbeat.

Why an all-stars live event makes sense

Bonadies argued a live DWTS event could be produced quickly. A condensed all-stars format would rely on familiar performers and less preproduction time.

That model, she suggested, could slot into ABC’s vacant two hours without weeks of pre-filming. No official schedule change has been announced.

Existing DWTS projects and plans

Separately, Dancing With the Stars is developing a spin-off to find new professional dancers. The project was announced on February 13.

• The working title is Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro.
• Contestants will live together and face a rigorous audition process.
• The grand prize is a spot as a new DWTS professional.

Reports say current Season 34 champion Robert Irwin is expected to host. Mark and Shirley Ballas have been linked to judging roles, with a rotating third judge planned. The series was initially expected to air in summer and stream on Hulu.

Where things stand

ABC has not confirmed any replacement programming for the Bachelorette timeslot. Dancing With the Stars has not formally announced an emergency all-stars season.

Filmogaz.com will monitor developments and report official announcements as they arrive.