Reality television continues to dominate the pop culture landscape, and 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for some of the genre’s most beloved series. From the ballroom glitz of Dancing with the Stars to the emotional rollercoasters of The Bachelor and Love is Blind, and the sun-soaked drama of Bachelor in Paradise and Summer House, fans are eagerly awaiting what’s next. Each series brings its unique blend of competition, romance, and drama, ensuring there’s something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll dive into the highlights, updates, and rumors surrounding these shows to give you an insider’s guide to the reality TV moments you won’t want to miss.
Dancing with the Stars
The Dancing with the Stars Season 33 finale was packed with dazzling performances as five finalists competed for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. The evening featured two rounds: Redemption Dances and Freestyles. Highlights included Joey and Jenna’s tennis-inspired freestyle with glowing rackets and Stephen and Rylee’s emotional freestyle to Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida.” We also saw special performances from all of the eliminated celebrities in between the remaining competitor’s dances which brought both grace and drama between some of the showmance couples of the season.
In addition to this, Derek Hough and Mark Ballas delivered a stunning Argentine Tango, blending sharp precision, dramatic flair, and intimate storytelling. The Argentine Tango, originating in the late 19th century in Buenos Aires, is deeply rooted in passion and improvisation, reflecting the melding of European, African, and native influences. Known for its close embrace and intricate footwork, this dance evolved from the lower-class barrios to international ballrooms, embodying a rich cultural history and emotional intensity that Derek and Mark captured masterfully.
Now let’s take a closer look into the Freestyle Round of the competition:
- Stephen and Rylee
- Freestyle Dance: Performed to “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay, featuring dynamic gymnastics-inspired moves and heartfelt storytelling.
- Score: 30/30. Judges praised the emotional resonance and technical mastery.
- Joey and Jenna
- Freestyle Dance: A tennis-themed routine to “Canned Heat,” incorporating light-up tennis rackets and intricate lifts.
- Score: 29/30. Celebrated for creativity and energy.
- Danny and Witney
- Freestyle Dance: A playful “Barbie and Ken” performance to Lizzo’s “Pink” and Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken.”
- Score: 29/30. Judges loved Danny’s surprising versatility.
- Ilona and Alan
- Freestyle Dance: A blend of humor and power with stunning visuals, showcasing Ilona’s growth.
- Score: 30/30. Applauded for their commanding presence.
- Chandler and Brandon
- Jive (Redemption Dance): A reprise with improved stamina and technique.
- Score: 30/30. Judges commended the sharp execution.
Redemption Dances
The Redemption Dances in the Dancing with the Stars finale provided contestants with the opportunity to revisit and perfect routines that judges previously critiqued. Each couple worked closely with the judges to address past mistakes and elevate their performances. Chandler and Brandon tackled a Jive, showcasing vastly improved energy and precision, earning a perfect 30/30. Danny and Witney also refined their earlier missteps with a more technically sound and lively routine. These dances allowed contestants to demonstrate growth, leaving lasting impressions as they aimed for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
- Stephen and Rylee: Revisited a Samba, earning 30/30 with enhanced rhythm and technique.
- Joey and Jenna: Perfected a Cha-Cha, scoring 29/30, praised for sharp footwork.
- Danny and Witney: Improved on a Tango, receiving 29/30 for heightened intensity and control.
- Ilona and Alan: Nailed a Contemporary routine, scoring 30/30 with emotional depth.
- Chandler and Brandon: Delivered an energetic Jive, achieving a perfect 30/30.
In the end, the couple’s placements reflected the exceptional talent and dedication of the finalists. In fifth place, Danny and Whitney were praised for their growth and charisma. Danny’s ability to capture the audience with his Barbie and Ken-inspired freestyle secured him in the top five. Coming in at fourth is bronze medalist Stephen Nederosik. His emotional freestyle showcased his diversity as both a dancer and an Olympic gymnast and even featured a few of his teammates. Chandler Kinney and her partner Brandon Armstrong took third place although they earned a true perfect score of the night with both her freestyle and redemption dance, However, it wasn’t enough to earn her the top spot. Second place went to Ilona and Alan after her showstopping Feminineominon freestyle. Ilona truly showed growth this season and was always ready to show up and show out, despite some setbacks. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson emerged victorious, winning the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy with their innovative performances, including a standout tennis-themed freestyle. One of the most heartwarming moments of the episode was the joy of seeing Jenna’s husband Val, Season 32 Mirrorball Champion hand off the Mirrorball, keeping it in their family.
The Dancing with the Stars Season 33 finale concluded a season filled with passion, growth, and unforgettable performances. The finalists showcased their skills through Redemption Dances and Freestyles, impressing both judges and audiences. Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson’s victory with the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy highlighted their creativity and consistency, while Ilona, Stephen, Chandler, and Danny each left lasting legacies with their talent and resilience. Special performances and heartfelt moments, like Derek Hough and Mark Ballas’s Argentine Tango, celebrated the rich history of dance, ending the season on a truly triumphant and emotional note.
The Bachelor
Season 29 of The Bachelor, featuring Grant Ellis as the lead, promises to be an emotionally charged and dramatic journey. Grant, who was previously seen on The Bachelorette but didn’t find love with Jenn Tran, is now seeking a deep, meaningful connection on his season. The new season, set to premiere on January 27, 2025, will unfold with Grant exploring his relationships with a diverse group of women, including several standout contestants. Expect plenty of drama, heartfelt moments, and intense competition as Grant navigates his way through this emotional rollercoaster.
In a teaser for the season, contestants are already showing their admiration for Grant, calling him the “hottest Bachelor ever” and expressing how he is truly seeking a life partner. The journey will undoubtedly include ups and downs, as Grant is torn between his top choices, setting the stage for a jaw-dropping finale. Fans of the show can look forward to seeing Grant’s evolution as a romantic lead, as he seeks affection, adventure, and a partner to build a future. The Bachelor will air on ABC, with the season kicking off on January 27, 2025, and expected to capture viewers’ hearts once again, with a combination of stunning locations, heart-stopping moments, and dramatic eliminations.
Bachelor in Paradise
Rumors and speculation are swirling about the next season of Bachelor in Paradise, expected to air in 2025. After initially sparking fears of cancellation, ABC confirmed the show’s return, marking its 10th season. Traditionally filmed in Mexico, the show is anticipated to begin airing in late summer or early fall. However, specific details on the filming schedule and cast remain under wraps.
Fans have been speculating about who might join the beachside drama, with wish lists including notable Bachelor Nation alums like Maria Georgas from Joey Graziadei’s season, who has reportedly resisted returning to the franchise but remains a fan favorite. Xavier Bonner, who stirred controversy in Charity Lawson’s Bachelorette season, and Jess Edwards, known for her dramatic moments, are also among the potential picks. These personalities bring a mix of unresolved stories and compelling arcs, setting the stage for intense love triangles and potential redemption arcs.
What to expect? Likely the classic mix of heartfelt connections and over-the-top drama. Some of the franchise’s most successful couples, such as Jade and Tanner Tolbert or Joe Amabile and Serena Pitt, originated on Paradise. Fans are eager to see if the 2025 season will continue that legacy or be dominated by fleeting flings and explosive confrontations
Stay tuned for updates as ABC unveils more about the cast and schedule. With Bachelor Nation’s growing audience, this season could introduce new twists or production changes to keep things fresh while maintaining the iconic tropical vibe.
Love is Blind
Season 7 of Love is Blind, set in Washington D.C., brought fresh drama, heartfelt connections, and significant controversies as contestants navigated relationships from the pods to real life. Two couples emerged successfully: Tyler Francis and Ashley Adionser, and Garrett Josemans and Taylor Krause. Both pairs have solidified their marriages, with Tyler addressing public scrutiny about his role as a father to children conceived through a prior arrangement with a friend. Meanwhile, Garrett and Taylor revealed plans to move to Washington D.C., sharing anecdotes about their evolving bond and shared hobbies like fishing.
The season also highlighted dramatic fallout among several contestants. Marissa George and Ramses Prashad had a tense reunion, with Marissa expressing unresolved emotions and Ramses admitting communication failures. Hannah Jiles accused Nick Dorka of pursuing fame over love, supported by a journal entry listing his goal to gain notoriety from the show. Cast members backed her claims, adding that Nick made disparaging remarks about her appearance during filming.
Other notable breakups included Stephen Richardson and Monica Davis, whose relationship ended due to trust issues, and Tim Godbee and Alexandra Byrd, who clashed over family dynamics and personal disagreements. Despite the conflicts, the reunion showcased moments of camaraderie, particularly between Leo Braudy and Brittany Wisniewski, who transitioned from a romantic connection to a close friendship. As fans anticipate the next installment, Love is Blind Season 8, set to premiere on February 14, 2025, promises fresh romances and more surprises, keeping the excitement alive for this unique social experiment.
Summer House
Speculation about a new season of Summer House in 2025 is swirling, with significant developments anticipated following the dramatic conclusion of Season 9. The show’s longstanding tradition of capturing the highs and lows of the Hamptons lifestyle seems set to continue with returning and potential new cast members, sparking buzz among Bravo fans. Expected returning cast members include staples like Kyle Cooke, Amanda Batula, Paige DeSorbo, Ciara Miller, and Gabby Prescod, as well as Lindsay Hubbard and Carl Radke despite their recent breakup. Lindsay’s pregnancy with her new partner adds an intriguing dynamic to the house’s social fabric, as she and Carl navigate cohabitation post-engagement.
Rumored new additions could include Imrul Hassan, Lexi Wood, and Bailee Henderson, who have been linked to the series after appearances at Bravo events and social media activity suggesting connections to the cast. These fresh faces may bring new energy and drama to the show. Key dynamics to watch for include tensions between ex-couples like Ciara and West, who reportedly maintain minimal interaction despite shared living spaces. Kyle and Amanda’s stability might offset the chaos as they take on leadership roles in the group. Meanwhile, Paige DeSorbo’s relationship with Craig Conover could impact her involvement and provide crossover appeal with Southern Charm. Danielle Olivera’s reduced role, focusing on her personal and professional priorities, also marks a shift.
The production team is likely to stick with the Hamptons house while incorporating more scenes from other social hotspots like New York City. Fans can expect the season to delve into relationship challenges, professional aspirations, and the ever-present mix of house drama and summer fun. If this season aligns with the typical Bravo timeline, it may air in mid-2025, potentially accompanied by teasers in early spring. With a blend of familiar faces and new dynamics, the upcoming season promises to deliver the mix of tension and camaraderie that Summer House fans crave.
As we gear up for an exciting slate of reality TV in 2025, one thing is clear: these shows will continue to entertain, surprise, and spark conversation. Whether you’re a fan of dramatic love stories, jaw-dropping dance routines, or the unfiltered drama of a summer in the Hamptons, the upcoming seasons promise to deliver on all fronts. With returning favorites, new faces, and plenty of surprises, it’s the perfect time to tune in, catch up, and join the fandom. Keep an eye out for premieres, teasers, and updates as the year unfolds—there’s a reality show for everyone, and 2025 might just be the best year yet!
Xoxo,
Jaida, Sarah, and Sloan
