Amber Glenn is continuing her transition from elite figure skating to television competition as one of the celebrity contestants on season 35 of Dancing with the Stars.
The Olympic gold medallist is paired with professional dancer Pasha Pashkov. ABC’s official cast announcement lists Glenn among the 16 celebrities competing for the season’s Mirrorball Trophy.
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Amber Glenn’s Dancing with the Stars journey
Amber Glenn made her ballroom debut during the show’s two-night premiere in September. She and Pashkov performed a cha-cha to “Smooth” by Santana featuring Rob Thomas and received 18 points from the judges, with Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli each awarding six points. She advanced after the opening round, according to the opening-night results.
For the second week, Glenn and Pashkov were scheduled to perform a tango to “All the Things She Said” by Harrison during “Viral Hits Night,” which aired Tuesday, September 22, 2026. ABC’s press materials identified the couple among the 14 remaining pairs returning for the episode.
The song choice also connected the performance to the television drama Heated Rivalry, where the Harrison recording received renewed attention. Glenn had indicated that the routine would carry a personal connection for LGBTQ+ viewers, adding another layer to her appearance beyond the competition itself, as coverage of the routine noted.
Why the casting matters
Glenn arrives on the programme after the most significant season of her skating career. She helped the United States win Olympic gold in the team event at the 2026 Winter Games and is a three-time U.S. national champion.
ABC describes Glenn as the first openly LGBTQ+ U.S. women’s figure skating champion. The network has also highlighted her status as one of the few women to land a triple axel in competition. (ABC’s press biography)
Her participation gives the season one of its clearest connections to Olympic sport, alongside Paralympic gold medallist Ezra Frech. Glenn’s skating background may offer advantages in balance, musicality and body control, but ballroom dance requires different posture, footwork and partnering techniques.
In an interview with U.S. Figure Skating, Glenn said the invitation was an opportunity she did not want to turn down, even though the programme overlaps with the figure skating calendar. She also acknowledged that taking part could complicate her competitive plans for the new season.
What comes next for Amber Glenn
Glenn’s appearance on the show does not necessarily mark the end of her skating career. U.S. Figure Skating reported that she intended to continue training and planned to compete during the second half of the season.
That timetable could become important as the 2026–27 Grand Prix schedule progresses. The longer Glenn remains on Dancing with the Stars, the more carefully she and her team will have to manage travel, rehearsal demands and preparation for skating events.
For now, her focus is the ballroom. ABC lists new episodes of Dancing with the Stars on Tuesday nights, with the programme airing on ABC and Disney+ and becoming available on Hulu the following day. (ABC’s programme schedule)
Season 35 cast and format
Glenn is competing in a cast that includes actors Julia Stiles, Jenna Dewan and Harry Shum Jr., musician Taylor Hanson, television personality Maura Higgins, chef Giada De Laurentiis and other performers and social-media personalities.
The competition combines judges’ scores with viewer voting. Contestants can be eliminated as the season continues, meaning Glenn’s future on the programme will depend on both her performances and public support.
Her early appearance has already established the central appeal of the casting: an Olympic figure skater known for jumps and spins is now being asked to master a completely different competitive language on the dance floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Amber Glenn partnered with on Dancing with the Stars?
Amber Glenn is partnered with professional dancer Pasha Pashkov during season 35.
What did Amber Glenn score in her Dancing with the Stars debut?
Glenn and Pashkov received 18 out of 30 points for their opening cha-cha.
What dance did Amber Glenn perform during Viral Hits Night?
She and Pasha Pashkov performed a tango to “All the Things She Said” by Harrison.
Is Amber Glenn still competing in figure skating?
Yes. U.S. Figure Skating reported that Glenn intended to continue training and compete during the second half of the 2026–27 season.
Where can viewers watch Dancing with the Stars season 35?
The series airs on ABC and Disney+ and streams on Hulu the following day.
Fact-Checked: Key details were checked against ABC, ABC Press and U.S. Figure Skating information, including Glenn’s season 35 casting, partnership, performances and skating plans.
Disclaimer: Competition results and scheduling may change as the Dancing with the Stars season continues.