**‘Dancing with the Stars’ Cast Includes Con Artist, NBA Star, Actors, and ‘Bachelor’ Stars**
The upcoming season of “Dancing with the Stars” promises to be one of the most diverse and entertaining yet, featuring a unique mix of celebrities from various walks of life. From a notorious con artist to a celebrated NBA star, the cast is sure to captivate audiences with their dance moves and personal stories.
### Key Cast Members:
– **Anna Sorokin (aka Anna Delvey)**: Perhaps the most controversial contestant this season, Sorokin is a convicted con artist who gained infamy for posing as a wealthy socialite in New York City. Her elaborate schemes to defraud banks, hotels, and friends were the subject of the popular Netflix series “Inventing Anna.” Sorokin’s participation in “Dancing with the Stars” is sure to draw attention, as she attempts to rebrand herself in the public eye.
– **Matt James**: Known for being the first Black lead on “The Bachelor,” Matt James is no stranger to reality TV. His season of “The Bachelor” was one of the most talked-about in the show’s history, and he has since become a prominent figure in the world of social media and philanthropy. James will now take on the challenge of ballroom dancing, bringing his charm and charisma to the dance floor.
– **Iman Shumpert**: A former NBA star, Shumpert is known for his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he won an NBA Championship in 2016. Off the court, Shumpert has also made a name for himself in the music industry and as a fashion icon. His athleticism and competitive spirit will likely make him a formidable contestant on the show.
– **Melora Hardin**: Best known for her role as Jan Levinson on “The Office,” Hardin has had a long and successful career in television and film. Her experience in the entertainment industry, combined with her natural grace, could make her a standout on the dance floor.
– **Olivia Jade Giannulli**: The daughter of actress Lori Loughlin, Olivia Jade became embroiled in the college admissions scandal that rocked the nation in 2019. Despite the controversy, Olivia Jade has maintained a strong following on social media and is now looking to change the narrative by showcasing her dance skills on national television.
### A Brief History of “Dancing with the Stars”:
“Dancing with the Stars” first premiered in 2005 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The show pairs celebrities with professional dancers, who then compete in various dance styles, from the cha-cha to the tango. Over the years, the show has featured a wide range of contestants, including actors, athletes, musicians, and even politicians. The competition is judged by a panel of experts, and each week, one couple is eliminated based on their performance and audience votes.
### Why This Season Stands Out:
– **Diverse Cast**: The mix of contestants this season is particularly eclectic, ranging from reality TV stars to athletes, and even a convicted con artist. This diversity is likely to bring a wide range of viewers to the show, each rooting for their favorite celebrity.
– **Redemption Arcs**: Several contestants, such as Anna Sorokin and Olivia Jade, are participating in the show as part of a broader effort to rehabilitate their public images. Their journeys on the dance floor could be seen as symbolic of their attempts to turn over a new leaf.
– **Athleticism vs. Entertainment**: With contestants like Iman Shumpert, who brings athletic prowess, and Melora Hardin, who brings years of experience in entertainment, this season will be a fascinating study in how different skill sets translate to the dance floor.
As the new season of “Dancing with the Stars” kicks off, viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, drama, and, of course, some spectacular dance routines. Whether you’re tuning in to see your favorite celebrity or just curious about how a con artist will fare in a ballroom, this season is sure to be one for the books.