RTE’s Dancing With the Stars 2022

‘BADLY MISSED’

RTE declined to say how many of the dancers on the show tested positive – but the fact that 12 contestants will not appear in the studio is an unprecedented move.

The show’s 2020 season kicked off with famous male artists entering the ring, followed by star female dancers in the second week.

ONE DWTS insider told us: “You can’t do it this year because Matthew MacNabb tested positive and Aengus Mac Grianna couldn’t dance when his dance partner Emily tested positive either.

“So what you get is a mixed-gender group that has escaped the virus. Emily’s hit with the virus was a huge blow for the show’s opening show with five new dancers, two of them just teenagers. Emily’s experience will be missed heavily. ”

The source added: “With Ryan McShane set to depart this year with the social media boom fueling the show, the producers really need Emily’s familiar face on screen. Like Ryan, she’s been with DWTS since year one.

“This year needs to be able to shine better than ever – as well as her talent as a top professional dancer and instructor.”