Dancing with the Stars has announced that Oti Mabuse will join the show as the new head judge, while Laura Fox will stand in for presenter Doireann Garrihy for the upcoming season.
South African talent show judge and dance champion Mabuse will replace Loraine Barry as head judge alongside returning judges Brian Redmond, Arthur Gourounlian and Karen Byrne.
Speaking about the role, the double Strictly winner said: "I'm so excited to be joining Dancing with the Stars as head judge! Dance has been such a huge part of my life, and to now have the opportunity to celebrate the incredible talent and passion that Ireland has to offer is such a joy.
"As someone who has been on both sides of the judging table, from performing as a professional dancer on Strictly to sitting on panels on different shows, I know just how much heart, hard work and magic go into every performance and how much this show means to everyone.
"Irish audiences have always been so warm, supportive and fun-loving, so I already know we're going to have the most amazing time together. I’m looking forward to having the best time with my fellow judges and can’t wait to bring my love for performance and, of course, a whole lot of sparkle, to this fabulous show."
Meanwhile, 2FM and Ireland's Fittest Family host Laura Fox will stand in for Doireann Garrihy, who is set to welcome her first baby, presenting the new series alongside Jennifer Zamparelli, who is returning to present her seventh series of the dancing competition.
Fox, who competed in the series last year, said: "I'm beyond thrilled to be stepping into the ballroom as co-host of Dancing with the Stars this year!
"Having been a contestant on the show, I know exactly how nerve-wracking and magical it all is the glitter, the graft, the laughs and I honestly can’t wait to be part of it from this side of the stage.
"I’m absolutely buzzing to join Jen for the craic, and I’ll just be keeping the seat warm for Doireann while she takes a well-deserved break to welcome her new arrival. It’s such an iconic show and a real full-circle moment for me - bring on the sequins!"
Alan Tyler, RTÉ Group Head of Entertainment and Music, added: "Oti is a true star of the ballroom and beyond, and we are delighted to welcome her as the new head judge on Dancing with the Stars.
"The combination of her exceptional expertise, passion, and infectious enthusiasm will not only keep our competitors on their toes but will also ensure they have great fun in the process.
"Meanwhile we will all miss Doireann this year, but having former contestant and hugely talented presenter Laura Fox stepping into her dancing shoes means that the show won't put a foot wrong.
"With more surprises to come, we are excited to bring viewers a whole news season of Dancing with the Stars."
Dancing with the Stars will return in January 2026, airing on Sunday nights on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
