Guillermo Rodriguez Joins Dancing with the Stars—and We’re Already Rooting for Him

Move over, mirrorball trophy, there is a new king of the ballroom in town. In a move that absolutely no one had on their 2026 reality television bingo card, Guillermo Rodriguez is officially swapping his late-night microphone for some serious sequins.

Jimmy Kimmel’s beloved sidekick has joined the celebrity cast for Dancing with the Stars Season 35. The bombshell announcement dropped during the June 17 broadcast of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, sending shockwaves through the reality TV fandom. For a show that thrives on a mix of athletes, pop stars, and influencers, adding late-night's most endearing personality is a total masterclass in entertainment strategy.

Dancing with the Stars knows how to drum up drama, but this casting is pure gold. Kimmel broke the news by raising a stage curtain to reveal Guillermo draped in a flashy, ultra-shiny blue dance costume. The sparkle alone was enough to blind the front row.

Kimmel couldn't resist a few affectionate jabs, pointing out that Guillermo is making history as the "first-ever parking lot security guard to dance with the stars." It is a hilarious nod to Guillermo's humble beginnings at the studio before he stole the hearts of millions. The best moment of the night? Kimmel jokingly begged his sidekick not to lose an "adorable pound" during the grueling ballroom rehearsals. In true fashion, Guillermo promised that if he accidentally sheds five pounds, he will immediately eat enough to gain 10 right back.

Guillermo is the fourth celebrity locked in for the upcoming fall season, and the roster is already shaping up to be wildly entertaining. He joins a eclectic mix of personalities:

• Jackson Olson: The social media sensation and Savannah Bananas baseball player who already knows a thing or two about dancing on a field.

• Ciara Miller: The gorgeous reality TV star hailing from Bravo’s Summer House.

• Maura Higgins: The breakout star from The Traitors and Love Island who never holds back.

Can Guillermo's charm outshine the influencers and athletes? Feeling a little protective of him already. While he might not have the traditional athletic stamina of a baseball player, his stage presence is completely unmatched.

The series is returning to its regular broadcasting layout, airing live on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu. This multi-platform approach means fans can catch Guillermo's routines from just about anywhere.

While we have seen him bust a few introductory moves on Kimmel’s stage, the real test begins when he is paired with a professional dancer. The official pro pairings, along with the rest of the celebrity contestants and the fall premiere date, will be formally unveiled on September 2 during Good Morning America.

Guillermo brings a much-needed dose of pure, unadulterled joy to a competition that can sometimes take itself a little too seriously. Whether he nails the Argentine Tango or completely fumbles a Samba, he is guaranteed to be the most watchable contestant of the season.

Are you rooting for Guillermo to take home the mirrorball trophy this fall? Head over to the comments section and let us know your predictions for his professional dance partner. Keep your eyes locked on The TV Cave for every update, recap, and review as the new season approaches.