Julia Stiles Dances to Dolly Parton’s ‘9 to 5’ on DWTS
On her first night on Dancing With the Stars, actress Julia Stiles performed a quickstep to Dolly Parton’s 1980 hit “9 to 5,” honoring the late singer who had approved the use of the song shortly before her death. The routine, paired with professional dancer Ezra Sosa, showcased high‑energy moves a…
By Felo News Desk · Published
On Wednesday night, September 16, 2026, actress Julia Stiles made her debut on the long‑running dance competition Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) and paid a heartfelt tribute to country legend Dolly Parton. The 1980 Billboard No. 1 hit “9 to 5” served as the backdrop for a quickstep that combined high‑energy choreography with a respectful nod to Parton’s enduring influence.
How the Tribute Came Together
Stiles, known for her roles in Save the Last Dance and Hustlers, partnered with professional dancer and season 34 finalist Ezra Sosa for the opening routine of DWTS’s season 35. The pair chose “9 to 5” after learning that Parton had personally cleared the song for the show mere weeks before her passing on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. In a rehearsal package, Stiles explained, “It was only a couple weeks before Dolly passed that she approved this song specifically for me.” This approval added a layer of authenticity to the performance and underscored the special connection between the actress and the country icon.
During the rehearsal, Stiles revealed that “9 to 5” was the first song they discussed for the night’s theme, which focused on No. 1 songs from the year participants were born. The song, which topped the Billboard singles chart on February 21, 1981, had become an anthem for working‑class empowerment and a staple in pop culture. Stiles expressed her excitement, saying, “I wanted it so badly. We didn’t know what was going to happen. She cleared it, and I just feel so honored to honor Dolly.”
The Performance Itself
The routine began with a playful moment: Stiles hugged Sosa before pulling back in a comedic “fake‑out” that left the audience laughing. The pair then donned sparkling white tuxedos with silver accents, setting a polished tone for the quickstep. Their choreography emphasized sharp footwork, high kicks, and fluid hip movements while maintaining an upright posture that highlighted the elegance of the dance form.
As the music swelled, Stiles and Sosa executed a series of spins and brisk steps that kept the energy high throughout the performance. The routine’s tempo matched the upbeat rhythm of “9 to 5,” and the dancers’ synchronization showcased the professional partnership between the celebrity and her pro. The performance concluded with a flourish that left the judges and viewers cheering.
Judges’ Feedback and Audience Reaction
After the routine, co‑host Julianne Hough asked Stiles what performing to Parton’s song meant to her. Stiles reflected on the significance of the approval, noting, “It was the first song we talked about… I just feel so honored to honor Dolly. She’s such a powerhouse. And the song is so great. Like, it’s such an anthem.” Her comments resonated with fans who appreciated the personal connection to the late singer.
The judges awarded Stiles a solid score of 18 out of 30, placing her third that night behind Maura Higgins of The Traitors, Jenna Dewan of The Rookie, and Olympic gold medalist Amber Glenn. While the score was respectable, the emotional impact of the tribute was evident in the enthusiastic response from the live audience and the social media buzz that followed.
What’s Next for Julia Stiles on DWTS
Stiles will continue to compete in the season, with the show’s format requiring her to perform a new routine each week. The judges will evaluate her progress, and the audience will vote for their favorite performances. Fans can look forward to seeing how Stiles adapts to different dance styles and whether she will choose to honor other musical legends in future episodes.
For now, the tribute to Dolly Parton stands as a memorable moment in the season’s premiere, showcasing how music and dance can intersect to celebrate cultural icons and their lasting influence.
Why This Tribute Matters
By honoring Dolly Parton on a mainstream platform like DWTS, Stiles helped introduce the country legend’s music to a new generation of viewers. The performance also highlighted the importance of respecting artists’ legacies and ensuring that their work is used with permission and reverence.
Key facts
- Julia Stiles danced to Dolly Parton’s ‘9 to 5’ on DWTS debut
- Parton approved the song weeks before her death
- The routine featured high‑energy quickstep choreography
- Stiles received an 18/30 score, ranking third that night
- The performance revived interest in Parton’s music among younger audiences
Why it matters
The tribute highlighted Dolly Parton’s lasting cultural impact and demonstrated how contemporary platforms can honor legacy artists, inspiring both fans and emerging performers.
Frequently asked questions
Did Dolly Parton approve the use of ‘9 to 5’ for DWTS?
Yes, Parton gave her permission shortly before her passing in August 2026.
What dance style was used in the tribute?
The routine was a quickstep, a fast‑paced dance that emphasizes quick footwork and lively energy.
How did the judges score Julia Stiles’ performance?
She earned 18 out of 30, placing third for the night.
Will Julia Stiles perform other tribute songs in the season?
It has not been announced, but the show often features themed nights that could allow for additional tributes.
Sources
- [1] billboard.com — originally reported as “Julia Stiles Pays Glittery Tribute to Dolly Parton With ‘9 to 5’ Quickstep on ‘Dancing With the Stars’: Watch”
