We’ve had an Eurovision legend, daddy, we mean Paudie from The Traitors and now we have our third contestant for the new season.
She’ll be swapping her crown for dancing shoes in January.
Current Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins has been revealed as the third contestant lighting up the dancefloor for the ninth series of Dancing with the Stars.
Katelyn was selected as the 2025 International Rose of Tralee in August. As the 65th International Rose of Tralee, she is the first-ever Laois Rose to hold the title.
From a village on the Laois-Kilkenny border, Katelyn is an apprentice electrician who plans to pursue an engineering degree.
Katelyn is no stranger to dancing as she wowed the Rose of Tralee audiences with her jiving skills over the summer.
On joining the cast of Dancing with the Stars, Katelyn said: “Since August 19th, when I was handed the International Rose of Tralee sash, I promised myself that I would take every opportunity that came my way and make the most of this amazing year. I’m beyond grateful and so excited to be part of this year’s Dancing with the Stars.
“My parents were the first to know – their unwavering support has gotten me to where I am today. I hope I can continue to make them proud and be an inspiration for my younger sister and brother.
“From Irish dancing to set dancing and school musicals, dance has always been something I’ve enjoyed. I’d love to master the jive as it’s been a personal favourite of mine over the last few years when dancing with my Mam and my friends. It’s a completely new world to me, a big change from the Snickers and steel toe cap boots but I can’t wait to get stuck in and give it my all!”
Tune in for all the glitz and glam from Sunday 4 January 2026 on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
