Kym Johnson-Herjavec is ready for her highly anticipated return to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom.
After saying farewell to the show in 2017, the professional dancer is preparing to join Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli at the judges table for Dedication Night on Tuesday, October 14.
“It’s truly one of the most special nights of the season, and I’m deeply honored to be invited back,” Kym, 49, exclusively shared with Us Weekly. “This show has been such an important part of my life, and returning to the ballroom always feels like coming home.”
Kym made her debut on ABC’s competition series in 2006, when she was partnered with Jerry Springer for season 3.
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Soon after, she had the opportunity to teach a wide variety of celebrities, including singers Donny Osmond and Joey Fatone and athletes Warren Sapp and Hines Ward.
While she won the Mirrorball trophy with Osmond, 67, and Ward, 49, Kym assured fans that she has “wonderful memories and friendships” from all 15 seasons she appeared on the show.
“My first season with Jerry will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’ll never forget the joy of winning with Donny and Hines,” she said. “But the best part of all was meeting my now husband, Robert Herjavec, through the show. I’ll always have so much to thank DWTS for!”
In 2015, Kym found herself paired with the Shark Tank investor for season 20. Although they came in sixth place, the duo won in the game of love when their professional partnership turned romantic.
The couple got engaged and married in 2016. They later welcomed twins in 2018.
“Motherhood has been both the most challenging and the most rewarding experience of my life,” Kym said. “I love every moment — the tough days, the laughter and the joy of watching my children grow into amazing little people. My family will always be the most important thing in my life.”
For special holidays or trips, Kym tries to share new photos of her family via social media. Just this past weekend, the Herjavec family enjoyed a magical day at the Disneyland Resort.
While Kym may have said goodbye to competing on Dancing With the Stars, she certainly isn’t done moving and grooving at home.
“I love staying active with Pilates, yoga and dance,” she told Us. “Movement has always been such an important part of my life.”
Kym also revealed that she’s been working with a production company out of Canada on several development and production projects.
Although America may know her as a professional dancer who can perfect the tango and salsa, Kym said a new chapter in her career is coming soon.
“I’m so excited to share that my first movie with them comes out this November!” she teased. “It’s been such a rewarding way to stay creative and explore a new side of storytelling.”
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As she prepares to deliver her scores for the season 34 cast — that includes everyone from Robert Irwin and Dylan Efron to Jordan Chiles and Danielle Fishel — Kym is not surprised to see the show continuing to succeed.
“I think seeing your favorite celebrities step out of their comfort zones and show vulnerability is something everyone can relate to,” she explained to Us. “Audiences can’t help but root for their favorites. It’s also one of the few shows that families of all generations can watch together. After all these years, it’s amazing to see that the magic of the show is stronger than ever.”
Dancing With the Stars airs on ABC and Disney+ Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.
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