REVEALED: RTÉ's Dancing with the Stars new judge joins 2025 panel

RTÉ has announced that a new judge is set to change the pace by joining the Dancing with the Stars panel in 2025, alongside longstanding judges Loraine Barry, Brian Redmond and Arthur Gourounlian. 

The two-time Dancing with the Stars winner and professional dancer, Karen Byrne, can't wait to get in the hotseat this coming January. 

A celebrated Ballroom and Latin dancer from Ballyfermot, Karen is best known for her standout performances on Dancing with the Stars, where she featured as a pro dancer for seven seasons.

She is a two-time winner of the coveted glitterball trophy, most recently in 2024 with Paralympian Jason Smyth and in 2018 with singer Jake Carter, who she later became romantically involved with.

Karen has represented Ireland at international dance competitions, teaches at her own studio in Inchicore, and has a weekly podcast, 'The Carter Couch', with her partner Jake, and his brother Nathan. 

The professional dancer said, “I am absolutely delighted to join the judges panel for my 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. I've always looked at the judges seats and thought that must be the best seat in the house. Oh my god I get to hold a paddle!" she ecstatically added.

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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 stated, “I am over the moon to be returning for my fourth season of Dancing with the Stars,

"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! Now, let’s be honest, the biggest question of the season might just be: who’s going to win the battle of the biggest hair? Stay tuned. It’s going to be an unforgettable ride.” 

Brian Redmond added, “I’m delighted to be back on the judging panel for Dancing with the Stars 2025. 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. Roll on the new year!” he concluded.

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, December 9. 

Returning once again to RTÉ One and RTÉ Player in January 2025, Dancing with the Stars promises to bring glitter, glamour and dazzling performances to audiences in the new year.