Karen Byrne to join Dancing with the Stars judging panel in January
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Two-time Dancing with the Stars winner and professional dancer Karen Byrne will be joining the show's judging panel in 2025.
Ms Byrne will be joining longstanding judges Loraine Barry, Brian Redmond, and Arthur Gourounlian, when the show returns to RTÉ One in January.
Ms Byrne has featured as a pro dancer on the show for seven years.
She is a two-time winner of the coveted glitterball trophy, most recently with Paralympian Jason Smyth in 2024, and with singer Jake Carter in 2018.
Ms Byrne has represented Ireland at international dance competitions, she teaches at her own studio in Inchicore, and has a weekly podcast with her partner Jake Carter and his brother Nathan.
Commenting on her new appointment, Ms Byrne said she is "absolutely delighted" to join the judging panel on her eighth season of Dancing with the Stars.
"Having been lucky enough to win it twice and working with all my incredible dance partners, it will feel strange sitting on the other side of the desk.
"I can't believe it - I have to pinch myself! It doesn't feel real - I don't think it will feel real until I sit in the chair.
"The DWTS journey is the best, this show is in my veins - I absolutely love it.
"I feel so honoured to now be on the judges panel with the fabulous Loraine Barry, Brian Redmond and Arthur Gourounlian. Let the madness commence... please can it be January already," she said.
Head judge Loraine Barry commented: “I’m thrilled to be heading into season eight of DWTS Ireland especially as we welcome the two-time champion Miss Karen Byrne to the judging panel. Karen is fresh off the dance floor into the judging seat and I look forward to working with her.”
Arthur Gourounlian said: “What can I say about the incredible Karen? After watching her grace the dance floor with pure magic for three seasons, I’m beyond thrilled to now share the judging panel with her. It’s going to be absolutely electrifying!
Brian Redmond added: “I’m chuffed that Karen will be joining us on the judging panel this year after winning two glitterballs and seven seasons on the show, I think she’s earned her place.
"I’m sure she’ll challenge me, and maybe I’ll challenge her, but it all makes for great excitement ahead of the new year. I can’t wait to welcome Karen along to become the first fourth judge on Dancing with Stars.”
Dancing with the Stars will be hosted by Jennifer Zamparelli and Doireann Garrihy again this season.
The first celebrity taking to the dance floor for the brand-new season of Dancing with the Stars will be announced on Monday.