Oti Mabuse Named DWTS Judge; Cynthia Erivo Mentors

Cynthia Erivo will appear as Strictly Come Dancing's first special guest mentor for Movie Week on October 11, working with celebrities in rehearsals and giving live feedback while the show stages a Wicked-themed routine ahead of the November 21 release of Wicked: For Good. RTÉ has confirmed Dancing With The Stars Ireland will return in January 2026 with Oti Mabuse as its new head judge, replacing Loraine Barry who stepped down after eight seasons. Mabuse will join judges Brian Redmond, Arthur Gourounlian and Karen Byrne and said she will bring technical rigour, theatricality and "a lot of sparkle" to the panel. Laura Fox will temporarily replace Doireann Garrihy as co-host alongside returning presenter Jennifer Zamparelli. RTÉ praised Mabuse’s expected expert analysis, and producers said guest mentors like Erivo could pave the way for more high-profile appearances across dance shows.