Alix Earle's DWTS Debut: A Look at Her Journey and the Show's Legacy

Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars has officially begun, and with it comes a new cast of celebrities ready to step outside their comfort zones. Among the most talked-about contestants is social media star Alix Earle, who is trading her daily vlogs for the ballroom. While her first performance was met with excitement, it was the heartwarming support she received from her boyfriend, NFL player Braxton Berrios, that truly captured the public’s attention. Though he couldn’t be there in person, his actions from afar underscored the unique journey that every contestant embarks on—a path of personal growth, self-challenge, and the unwavering encouragement of those closest to them.

A Contestant's Journey: Nerves and Support from Afar

For Alix Earle, the transition from creating content for millions to performing live on national television has been anything but smooth. She admitted to being "really nervous" about the experience, and even the introductory video packages, which are a staple of the show, were a source of anxiety. She confessed a dislike for hearing her own voice and went so far as to plug her ears before her video aired, half-jokingly saying she didn’t want to look like a “lunatic.” This raw vulnerability immediately connected her to audiences, revealing that even a digital celebrity faces insecurities.

Despite her nervousness, Earle is embracing the challenge. She described the experience as “really fun and really different,” viewing her participation as a deeply personal test. She stated that she is her own toughest competitor and finds it “really cool to learn and challenge myself and go through all the emotions, good and bad.” With her professional partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, by her side, she is committed to leveling up her skills in the ballroom, starting from scratch and building her confidence with each step.

The support she has received from her boyfriend, Braxton Berrios, has been a crucial source of motivation. The NFL star, who plays for the Houston Texans, was unable to attend the premiere due to a minor hamstring injury. However, his absence did not stop him from cheering her on. He texted Earle a screenshot of his vote, which she said was the “most important” thing, and posted a video of her on his social media with a supportive caption, indicating his pride. While the couple has to spend time apart as she trains in Los Angeles and he prepares for the NFL season, their bond remains strong. In fact, Earle confirmed that Braxton’s hamstring injury was minor and that he had been cleared to return to the field for his next game on September 21.

The Enduring Legacy of the Judges' Panel

While new contestants like Alix Earle bring fresh energy to the show each season, Dancing With the Stars has built its legacy on the foundation of its judges' panel. Since the show’s premiere in 2005, the judges' table has served as both the heart of the competition and a source of entertaining and insightful critiques. The original panel was composed of three celebrated dance professionals: Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli.

As a former professional ballroom dancer, Len Goodman was the show’s stalwart judge for 29 seasons. Known for his kind but technically precise feedback, he was the panel's grounding force. He also served as a head judge on the UK version of the show, Strictly Come Dancing. In 2022, Goodman announced his retirement, citing that his age was making it more "challenging" to keep up with the demands of a live show. His death from bone cancer in April 2023 at the age of 78 was met with an outpouring of grief from contestants and fans alike. In a tribute to his profound legacy, the show’s final prize was fittingly renamed the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, ensuring his presence would always be felt on the dance floor.

Alongside him for all those years were two other mainstays: Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli. Inaba, who has been at the judges' table since the beginning, often focused her critiques on the performance value and emotional connection of the dance. Her background as a pop singer and choreographer in films like Austin Powers gives her a unique perspective on the artistry of performance. Bruno Tonioli, known for his passionate and energetic critiques, has also been a constant presence on the show since its inception. A talented dancer and choreographer, he has worked with legends such as Elton John and Tina Turner, bringing a vast wealth of experience and exuberant personality to every episode.

The judging panel has evolved with the times. For many seasons, fan-favorite Derek Hough, a former professional dancer on the show, would occasionally fill in for Len Goodman when he was unavailable. In 2020, Hough officially joined the panel as a permanent judge and has been a fixture ever since. His sister, Julianne Hough, also had stints as a judge before she transitioned to a co-hosting position alongside Alfonso Ribeiro in 2023. These changes have allowed the show to maintain its original spirit while welcoming new expertise and perspectives to the stage.

Ultimately, the journey of Dancing With the Stars is about more than just a competition. It is a testament to the power of transformation, a space where contestants like Alix Earle can face their fears and grow, all under the guidance of a judging panel that has, for decades, defined excellence. From the enduring legacy of Len Goodman to the modern energy of new contestants, the show continues to captivate audiences by blending cherished tradition with the excitement of an evolving cast.