Derek Hough Is Very Excited For 'DWTS' Move To Disney Plus

American reality competition series "Dancing with the Stars" is popularly known for being broadcast as an ABC show since its premiere in 2005.

However, it was announced last month that the program will be moving to Disney Plus, beginning with its 31st season, to allow ABC broadcast "Monday Night Football."

Naturally, the change brought several reactions from viewers and the series' dance contestants, including professional dancer Derek Hough who looked forward to the new season.

Speaking to ET's Nischelle Turner at the premiere of "Top Gun: Maverick," the expert performer aired his thoughts regarding the new season of "DWTS" and the move to the streaming channel. 

The debut event was held on the deck of the USS Midway aircraft carrier in San Diego, California, where Hough walked the red carpet.

Regarding the dance show, he said, "At first, I was like, 'Wha? What does that mean?!' But within 10 seconds, I was very, very excited about it. I think that's where a lot of things are moving toward."   

Hough continued, "Dancing with the Stars has always been a trailblazer; they've always been the first to do things. So, to move into this area is very bold, very brave, and I'm excited about it, to be a part of that new phase in television!"

He went on to commend the program for heading into a new area where there would be no commercial breaks or other add-ons of regular broadcast television.

"It's more opportunity for more performances, more dances, more creativity…so I'm excited about that too," the "DWTS" star explained.

"DWTS" would be returning with lots of familiar faces, including Hough, who confirmed so. However, he claimed not to know who precisely would return with him.

As the outlet reported, the show was picked for two more seasons; seasons 31 and 32, to premiere solely on the subscription streaming outlet.

It will debut on Disney Plus this fall, making it the first live show on the platform, and it is believed to be the first live-streaming reality program in the United States.

Hough would not be the first to dish his opinions regarding "DWTS" as the famous Bella Twins, Nikki Bella and Brie Bella, previously shared their views while attending the 2022 Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards.

As you may know, Nikki is the soon-to-be spouse of Artem Chigvintsev, a "DWTS" contestant. Apparently, the couple was not expecting the show to move to the new platform but hoped it was for the best.

Based on The Blast's narrative, the former WWE star and mother-of-one said, "I was shocked too. It was especially because I saw it online on social media. I was immediately like, 'Artem, you're going to Disney Plus."

She believed "DWTS" was for people to enjoy with family but also felt terrible for viewers who would not have access to the show as they could not afford streaming services.

Despite showing concern for the unfortunate watchers, she was pretty impressed with the historic nature of the change.

Nikki elaborated, 'I also think it's cool they're doing history by being the first live [show] on streaming. So, it can actually open a lot of doors." 

On the other hand, her sister Brie suggested that the program include some Disney features like "Mickey Mouse" to compete and spice things up.

Nikki agreed with the idea and stated that the new outlet might allow her fiancé to cosplay as a "Star Wars" character as he is "obsessed" with the movie series.

Earlier this year, The Blast detailed the cast of contestants for the new show season, which included majorly former winners, finalists, and the best contestants.

The past winners featured on the list were Birdie Carter (Season 7, 2007), Grant Denyer (Season 4, 2006), Anthony Koutoufides (Season 5, 2006), and David Rodan (Season 14, 2014).

Other stars added were Angie Kent (Season 17, 2020), Olympia Valance (Season 17, 2020), and Rob Mills (Season 9, 2009).

Furthermore, the returning contestants included Kylie Gillies (Season 9, 2009), Courtney Act (Season 16, 2019), and Ricki-Lee (Season 14, 2014).

On the other hand, Cameron Daddo, Sam Mac, Kris Smith, and Deni Hines would be making their debut on the new show.

The notable judges selected to assess performances comprised Todd McKenney, Helen Richey, Paul Mercurio, and Mark Wilson.

Fans are pretty excited about the new "DWTS" as they look forward to seeing their favorites return and new stars perform.