Farber's 'Not My Choice' Comment
Sasha Farber broke his silence on being left off the Dancing With the Stars Season 35 professional lineup, replying "Not my choice" to a fan on TikTok who asked whether his absence was voluntary and suggested he might be positioning himself for a hosting role alongside Derek Hough. The comment was subsequently deleted. Farber, 42, has been a DWTS pro on and off since season 17 in 2013, most recently appearing as a social media correspondent during season 34.
A Same-Day Visit to the Studio
Hours after the comment circulated, Farber shared an Instagram photo of himself arriving at Television City Studios in Los Angeles, where DWTS is filmed, and posted follow-ups showing him spending time with pro Witney Carson on set while other competitors and celebrities worked in the background. The visit came two days after ABC unveiled the season 35 celebrity and pro pairings during the September 2 episode of Good Morning America.
Farber Among Several Missing Pros
Farber is one of several veteran pros absent from the new lineup. Returning professionals include reigning mirrorball champion Witney Carson, Val Chmerkovskiy, Rylee Arnold, Sharna Burgess and Ezra Sosa. Gleb Savchenko, 42, also confirmed he would not be back, posting his own video on Instagram to thank fans: "Nothing but love and gratitude for all the years in that ballroom. Excited for this next chapter — and wishing everyone an amazing season." Savchenko added that he was "good" and asked followers to stop sending "sad messages," saying, "We're moving forward."
The Season 35 Premiere Ahead
Dancing With the Stars season 35 premieres with a two-night event on Tuesday, September 15, and Wednesday, September 16, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available on Hulu the following day. Farber has not publicly commented further beyond his initial reply, and ABC has not addressed the casting decisions.
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