Rylee Arnold has addressed growing speculation regarding her potential return to Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) for its possible 35th season. During an appearance on the November 20 episode of Julianne Hough‘s show, Arnold dismissed the rumors as mere “noise,” expressing her desire to continue on the popular dance competition.
In her interview, the 20-year-old professional dancer acknowledged the pressure she feels to perform well. “I definitely feel pressure. I think every single dance I’m in has to be good,” Arnold stated. She responded to comments suggesting she may not be invited back for the next season, alongside criticisms of her teaching abilities during season 34. Partnered with Pentatonix singer Scott Hoying, she faced scrutiny about whether she was adequately guiding him in ballroom dance.
Arnold explained that uncertainty about her participation in upcoming seasons is a common aspect of the DWTS experience. “We don’t know if we’re gonna be on the show until the summertime,” she remarked. Despite the challenges, she conveyed her enthusiasm for the show: “I would absolutely love to do another season—if not a bunch of more seasons—if they want me there.”
The criticism she received during season 34 was particularly taxing for Arnold, who emphasized the importance of self-acceptance. “I just try to give myself grace and know that I’m growing,” she said. Acknowledging the experience of her fellow professionals, she noted, “There are so many pros who have been here way longer than I have. Of course, they know more than I do; they have experience far beyond mine.”
Arnold is focused on her own journey, choosing not to compare herself to others in the competition. “I’m just staying in my lane, doing the very best I can,” she explained. She reflected on her long-held dream of participating in DWTS, expressing gratitude for her current position. “I am living a dream that I’ve had since I was a little girl,” she added.
Looking back, Arnold aims to focus on her happiness and accomplishments rather than external opinions. “I’m going to look back one day, and I’m not going to focus on what other people have said,” she said. “I’m going to focus on the fact that I was so genuinely happy in this moment and just so proud of what I was doing.”
Currently in her third season as a professional dancer, Arnold has faced a barrage of critical feedback regarding her teaching style. “There have been so many opinions,” she recalled. “Yeah, we are in the position to get that because we’re putting out our choreography and our work every single week for people to judge, but it’s definitely taken a toll on me this year.” Despite this, she views the challenges as a source of motivation. “I’m still learning, and I feel like I have done a lot these past three seasons.”
Arnold concluded by affirming her dedication to her craft. “I have put my best foot forward each and every season. I have learned so much from past pros on the seasons now. I’m still learning, but it’s also exciting to me, and I love it.”
