Dancing With The Stars: How To Vote (2024)

Every season, millions of viewers tune in to watch celebrities compete for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). A crucial part of the show is the audience vote, which, combined with the judges' scores, determines who stays and who goes. If you're new to the show or need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the process of voting for your favorite contestants.

Understanding the Voting System

The Dancing with the Stars voting system combines judges' scores with audience votes to determine the weekly results. Here’s a breakdown:

• Judges' Scores: The judges (usually four) score each performance out of 10. These scores are added together to give a total score out of 40 for each couple.
• Audience Votes: Viewers can vote for their favorite couples via two methods: online at ABC.com and by SMS text message.
• Combined Score: The judges' scores and audience votes are combined to create a final score. The couple with the lowest combined score is typically eliminated each week. This format ensures that both the artistic merit judged by professionals and the popularity among viewers contribute to the outcome.

When Can You Vote?

Voting typically opens at the beginning of the Dancing with the Stars broadcast in the Eastern and Central time zones. It remains open for a specific window, usually coinciding with the show's live airing. Here’s what you need to know:

• Voting Window: Voting usually opens at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT and closes shortly after the last performance of the night, usually around 8 p.m. PT / 11 p.m. ET. The exact closing time may vary, so it’s best to vote early in the window.
• Time Zones: If you live in the Mountain or Pacific time zones, you can vote during the broadcast in your local time. This ensures that all viewers have a fair opportunity to participate.
• Special Cases: Be aware of any announcements during the show about changes to the voting window, as these can sometimes occur due to show format or special events.

How to Vote Online

Voting online is one of the most popular ways to support your favorite dancers. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit ABC.com: Go to the official ABC website (ABC.com) on your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
2. Navigate to the DWTS Voting Page: Look for the Dancing with the Stars section or search for “DWTS voting.” There will typically be a direct link to the voting page during the live show.
3. Log In or Create an Account: You will need an ABC account to vote. If you already have one, log in. If not, you can quickly create an account by providing your email address and setting a password.
4. Select Your Favorite Couple(s): On the voting page, you will see photos of each competing couple. Click on the image of the couple you want to vote for. You can usually vote multiple times, up to the limit specified by the show (typically 10 votes per method).
5. Submit Your Votes: After selecting your couples, click the “Submit” button to cast your votes. Ensure your votes are submitted before the voting window closes.

Tips for Online Voting

• Use a Reliable Internet Connection: Make sure you have a stable internet connection to avoid any issues during the voting process.
• Vote Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to vote. Cast your votes as soon as the window opens to ensure they are counted.
• Check Your Vote Count: After submitting your votes, the site usually confirms the number of votes you have cast. Verify this to be sure your votes have been properly recorded.

How to Vote by SMS Text Message

Voting via SMS text message is another convenient option. Each couple is assigned a specific number, which you’ll use to text in your vote. Here’s how: — Lilith Cav OnlyFans: The Ultimate Fan Guide

1. Find the Assigned Text Numbers: During the broadcast, Dancing with the Stars will display a unique text number for each couple. Pay attention to the screen or listen to the hosts, who will announce these numbers.
2. Compose a Text Message: Open your phone's messaging app and compose a new text message.
3. Enter the Designated Number: Type the number assigned to the couple you wish to vote for in the message field.
4. Send the Text: Send the text message to the designated voting number, which is typically announced on the show (usually a shortcode like 21523).
5. Confirmation: You may receive a confirmation message acknowledging your vote. However, not all votes receive a confirmation, so don't worry if you don't get one.

Tips for SMS Voting

• Double-Check the Numbers: Ensure you are texting the correct number for your chosen couple to avoid miscasting your vote.
• Send Multiple Texts: You can vote multiple times via SMS, up to the limit specified by the show (usually 10 votes per method). Just send a separate text for each vote.
• Check Network Connectivity: Ensure your phone has good network connectivity to send your text messages successfully.

Rules and Restrictions

To keep the voting process fair, Dancing with the Stars has several rules and restrictions:

• Voting Limits: Typically, viewers are allowed to cast a maximum of 10 votes per couple per voting method (online and SMS). This limit is in place to prevent any one individual from unduly influencing the results.
• Age Restrictions: You must be of a certain age to vote, usually 16 or 18, depending on local regulations and the show's terms of service. Check the official rules for specific age requirements.
• Geographic Restrictions: Voting is usually restricted to viewers in the United States and Canada. If you are outside these regions, your votes may not be counted.
• Automated Voting: The use of automated systems or bots to cast votes is strictly prohibited. The show monitors voting patterns and may disqualify votes suspected of being cast by automated means.

Why Your Vote Matters

Your vote plays a significant role in determining who wins the Mirrorball Trophy. The audience vote is combined with the judges' scores, and this combined score determines which couple is eliminated each week. Here’s why your participation is crucial:

• Balancing Judges' Scores: While the judges provide expert feedback and scores, the audience vote allows viewers to support their favorite dancers based on personal preference and overall entertainment value.
• Saving Underdogs: Sometimes, a couple might not score as highly with the judges but has a strong connection with the audience. Your votes can help save these underdogs from elimination.
• Influencing the Outcome: In a close competition, every vote counts. Your participation can directly impact which couples make it to the next round and who ultimately wins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I vote from outside the United States?

Generally, voting is restricted to viewers in the United States and Canada. If you are located outside these regions, your votes may not be counted. — Illinois Basketball Roster: Key Players & Team Breakdown

2. How many times can I vote?

Typically, you can vote up to 10 times per couple per voting method (online and SMS). Be sure to check the specific rules for each season, as these limits can sometimes change. — MLB Playoff Schedule Today: Dates, Times, And Matchups

3. What time does voting open and close?

Voting usually opens at the beginning of the Dancing with the Stars broadcast in the Eastern and Central time zones (8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT) and closes shortly after the last performance, around 11 p.m. ET. Always vote early within the window to ensure your vote is counted.

4. Do I need an ABC account to vote online?

Yes, you will need an ABC account to vote online. If you don't already have one, you can quickly create an account on ABC.com.

5. Is it free to vote via SMS?

Standard text messaging rates apply. Check with your mobile carrier for details on your plan's text messaging costs.

6. What if I don't receive a confirmation message after texting my vote?

Not all SMS votes receive a confirmation message. As long as you sent the text to the correct number within the voting window, your vote should be counted.

7. Can I change my vote after submitting it?

No, once you submit your vote, you cannot change it. Be sure to double-check your selections before finalizing your votes.

Conclusion

Voting on Dancing with the Stars is a fun and crucial part of the show. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure your voice is heard and support your favorite couples. Whether you choose to vote online or via SMS, your participation helps shape the outcome of the competition. Tune in, cast your votes, and enjoy the excitement of Dancing with the Stars!