Dancing With the Stars paid tribute to the legends of rock ’n’ roll during its Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night, celebrating timeless hits and iconic performers. The Week 8 live episode aired on ABC at 8 p.m., featuring eight celebrity couples dancing to classics from The Beach Boys, Elton John, Bon Jovi, and the late Ozzy Osbourne.
The evening mixed live performances, guest appearances, and emotional tributes, with Flavor Flav joining as a special guest judge. The show marked one of the most energetic and nostalgic nights of the season, connecting generations of music and dance fans.
DWTS Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night Highlights
The episode opened with a fiery group number choreographed by Britt Stewart, blending “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard and “Fight The Power” by Public Enemy.
A special tour number choreographed by Mandy Moore to “Hey Ya!” by Outkast set the tone for a night filled with rhythm and nostalgia.
Full DWTS Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night Song List
Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy — Paso Doble to “Livin’ On a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
Robert Irwin & Witney Carson — Paso Doble to “Icky Thump” by The White Stripes
Whitney Leavitt & Mark Ballas — Paso Doble to “No More Tears” by Ozzy Osbourne
Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach — Jive to “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John
Andy Richter & Emma Slater — Contemporary to “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys
Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten — Viennese Waltz to “What the World Needs Now Is Love” by Dionne Warwick
Danielle Fishel & Pasha Pashkov — Contemporary to “Dream On” by Aerosmith
Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa — Jazz to “River Deep — Mountain High” by Ike & Tina Turner
The competition followed last week’s Halloween Night elimination, where Jen Affleck and Jan Ravnik were sent home. Despite a rib injury, Parent Trap star Elaine Hendrix delivered a pre-taped routine with partner Alan Bersten, earning applause for perseverance.
Guest Performers and Judges’ Reactions
Guest judge Flavor Flav brought lively commentary and nostalgia, praising contestants for channeling the spirit of rock icons. Legendary bands Chicago and Kool & the Gang delivered live renditions of their classic hits, electrifying the ballroom audience.
Judges commended the technical difficulty and storytelling behind the Paso Doble-heavy routines. Longtime judge Carrie Ann Inaba described the performances as “one of the most musically rich nights in Dancing With the Stars history.”
Impact and Analysis
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night marked a creative high point this season. With several standout routines and emotionally charged performances, the episode highlighted the versatility of the remaining couples.
Fans on social media praised the production’s scale, live musical collaborations, and choreography that blended rock intensity with ballroom precision. As the show nears semifinals, each performance now carries greater weight in determining who advances.
What’s Next on Dancing With the Stars
Dancing With the Stars returns next week for its Quarterfinal Round, featuring “Icons Night,” where contestants will perform dances inspired by musical trailblazers from different eras. Viewer votes and judge scores will determine the next elimination, edging the competition closer to the finale.
