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Brooks Nader is not mentioned in the latest entertainment report provided by ABC News. Instead, the report focuses on Hailey Bills, who has been announced as a new professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars” season 35. The news marks a major career milestone for Bills, who once wrote about her dream of appearing on the competition series.
Brooks Nader News Check: What the DWTS Report Reveals
The ABC News report, published Sept. 2, 2026, does not announce Brooks Nader as part of the season 35 cast, nor does it confirm a partnership involving her. Readers searching for a new Brooks Nader update should therefore treat the story as a separate “Dancing with the Stars” development centered on Bills and her professional debut.
Bills celebrated the announcement on Instagram by sharing two images. One was a promotional photograph connected to the new season, while the other showed a handwritten note she created years ago. In that note, Bills described her ambition to win the show’s Mirrorball Trophy and expressed hope that she would one day compete on “DWTS.”
Her old message also mentioned her aunt, Jenna Johnson, a prominent professional dancer on the program. Bills wrote that she wanted to follow Johnson’s example when she grew up. After Bills’ promotion was revealed, Johnson responded warmly, saying she was “actually SOBBING” and proud of her niece.
Hailey Bills’ Powerful Journey to the Ballroom
Bills’ path to the main “Dancing with the Stars” stage began several years ago. She competed on “Dancing with the Stars: Juniors” in 2018 as a professional junior dance partner to Tripp Palin Johnston, the son of Bristol Palin. Johnson served as the pair’s mentor during that competition.
In 2025, Bills joined the main show’s dance troupe. Her move into the professional lineup for season 35 represents the fulfillment of a long-standing goal and gives fans an opportunity to see her compete at the highest level of the franchise.
The season 35 cast reveal also confirmed that Bills will be paired with Sarah Jane Nader. Their partnership is notable because it will be the third same-sex pairing in the history of the American version of the show.
A Historic Same-Sex Partnership
Johnson made history in 2021 during season 30 when she partnered with JoJo Siwa. The pairing was the first same-sex partnership featured on the program. In 2022, professional dancer Gleb Savchenko competed alongside drag queen and television personality Shangela during season 31.
Bills and Sarah Jane Nader now join that continuing tradition of representation on the ballroom floor. Their pairing is expected to attract attention as viewers watch how the dancers approach choreography, storytelling and the demands of live competition.
Although the current report does not provide a Brooks Nader casting update, the season 35 announcement adds to growing interest in the new lineup. Fans may still encounter speculation across entertainment platforms, but no such claim is supported by the ABC News material reviewed here.
When Does Dancing With the Stars Season 35 Begin?
“Dancing with the Stars” season 35 is scheduled to air Tuesday, Sept. 15, and Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+. Episodes are expected to stream on Hulu the following day.
- Hailey Bills has been promoted to the professional dancer lineup.
- Bills will partner with Sarah Jane Nader.
- Jenna Johnson is Bills’ aunt and former mentor connection.
- Bills previously competed on “Dancing with the Stars: Juniors” in 2018.
- The report does not confirm Brooks Nader as a season 35 contestant.
For now, the clearest verified development is Bills’ long-awaited promotion. Her handwritten childhood dream, combined with her family connection to Johnson, gives the announcement an especially personal dimension. It also creates a compelling storyline for viewers when the new season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brooks Nader joining Dancing with the Stars season 35?
The provided ABC News report does not confirm Brooks Nader as a contestant, professional dancer or cast member for season 35.
Who is Hailey Bills partnered with?
Hailey Bills is partnered with Sarah Jane Nader for “Dancing with the Stars” season 35.
Who is Hailey Bills’ aunt?
Hailey Bills’ aunt is professional dancer Jenna Johnson, who previously competed in a same-sex partnership with JoJo Siwa.
When does DWTS season 35 premiere?
Season 35 is scheduled to air Sept. 15 and Sept. 16, 2026, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+.
