DWTS Shock Exit Turns Into Broadway Dream for Season 34 Star

Whitney Leavitt Goes From Ballroom Goodbye to Broadway Spotlight

Talk about a glow-up after a shock exit! One “Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 contestant just turned heartbreak into a total career win—and fans are absolutely loving it. Whitney Leavitt, who was eliminated just before the finale, has officially landed her next major dream gig… and it’s on Broadway.

Yes, you read that right. According to People on December 1, Leavitt will step into the legendary role of Roxie Hart in the Broadway production of “Chicago,” starting February 2, 2026. She’ll remain in the show through March 15, giving her a full Broadway moment in New York City.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Whitney Leavitt (@whitleavitt)

If that sounds familiar, it’s because another DWTS star, Ariana Madix, previously played the same role after her Season 32 run—where she finished third with partner Pasha Pashkov. Now, Whitney is following in those fabulous footsteps.

Fans were already shocked when Leavitt was eliminated in sixth place on Season 34. But the real twist came when she took to Instagram to drop the big news herself.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Whitney Leavitt (@whitleavitt)

“Grateful beyond words to ANNOUNCE that I will be joining @chicagomusical in the iconic role of Roxie Hart beginning Feb. 2nd 2026! See you in New York City!” she wrote—and the comments immediately exploded.

Her fellow DWTS castmates showed up BIG with love:

• Danielle Fishel: “Yessss we cannot wait! I stan!!!”

• Val Chmerkovskiy: “Congrats Wit!”

• Alix Earle: “YESSSSSS I’m so excited for you I have chills.”

• Alan Bersten: “You’re going to absolutely kill it!!”

• Dylan Efron: “Trip to NYC in Feb then.”

And of course, her dance partner Mark Ballas—who knows Broadway very well—gushed too:
“You’re gonna KILL it… & ‘who says that murder’s not an art.’”

Fun fact: This isn’t even the first time one of Ballas’ partners has gone Broadway. Charli D’Amelio, his Season 31 winner, previously starred in “& Juliet.”

Support also poured in from Emma Slater, Ezra Sosa, Jenn Tran, Lindsay Arnold, and many more from the DWTS family.

From a shocking ballroom exit to a sparkling Broadway spotlight - Whitney Leavitt just proved that sometimes, the best endings come after the hardest goodbyes.