The premiere of Dancing With the Stars Season 33 on ABC has set the stage for one of the most talked-about seasons yet, with fan reactions flooding social media as the new cast took to the ballroom.

From a standout dancer's debut to a beloved Bachelor stealing hearts on the dance floor, the season is already packed with drama, excitement, and buzz-worthy moments.

Anna Delvey Makes 'DWTS' Debut With Blinged-Out Ankle Monitor 

In a move that has sparked heated conversation, infamous Anna Delvey, known for posing as a wealthy heiress and later being convicted of grand larceny, made her DWTS debut. Dressed in a sequined ensemble and paired with professional dancer Ezra Sosa, Anna raised eyebrows by wearing a bedazzled ankle monitor on the ballroom floor. 

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The moment quickly became the talk of the night.

"I hope everybody that feels negatively about me will be able to turn their opinion around," said Delvey during the live show.

Her history as a convicted felon, famously portrayed in Netflix's Inventing Anna, has led many to question her spot on the show. Social media erupted with criticism after the performance.

One fan tweeted, “CALLING HER AN ENTREPRENEUR IS CRAZYYYY,” while another wrote, “A fashionista?? Is that the new word for criminal???” It’s clear that not all viewers are ready to embrace the so-called “fake heiress” as a competitor.

DWTS showrunner Conrad Green defended the casting decision, telling Variety, “We've had other people on the show who've had criminal issues in the past. She served her time. I think it's perfectly valid for her to be on the show.”

Despite the backlash, Delvey remains hopeful that viewers will give her a chance to show her dancing skills, adding with a laugh, "I’ve reinvented myself many times. This time I’m going to be a ballroom dancer."

Although online has been buzzing, Sosa, stood by her side. In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly after the Tuesday (Sept. 17) premiere, Sosa shared his perspective on their partnership.

“When we go out there and we’re dancing, it’s just us two on the floor, " said Sosa, 23. “Even when we finished the dance, we’re not really thinking about applause or anything.”

Who Is Ezra Sosa? 

While Delvey may have stolen the headlines, Sosa is no stranger to the spotlight. A multi-talented dancer in hip hop, jazz, ballroom, and ballet, Sosa has been dancing since the age of two. His earliest inspiration? The Lawrence Welk Show. Since then, he’s built an impressive résumé, including winning the NYCDA Regionals three years in a row and being a three-time BYU national Pre-Teen Latin Champion.

Sosa’s talents have taken him to the sets of music videos, movies like Dear Dumb Diary, and even background roles in productions like Canine Christmas. But it’s his perspective on DWTS that truly stands out. In an interview with Joe Vulpis on TikTok, Sosa emphasized the importance of chemistry between partners.

“It’s about your chemistry with your partner, it’s about getting your partner to open up in front of cameras,” he shared. Regarding Delvey, Sosa expresses that she has a unique story that she should tell in the way she wants to.

@ughitsjoe Pro on Dancing With The Stars @Ezra Sosa opens up about what the iconic show is really about! Ezra is partnered wirh Anne Delvey this season for his firet time as a pro! #dwts #annadelvey #dancingwiththestars #dancers #dancing ♬ original sound - Joe Vulpis

Joey Graziadei Steals the Show

On a more positive note, Bachelor Nation's Joey Graziadei lit up the dance floor with an energetic Cha Cha alongside his partner, Jenna Johnson. Dancing to Tyler Hubbard’s Dancin’ in the Country, Graziadei's impressive footwork and high-energy jumps left fans cheering.

“HE DID SOOOO GOOOD!!!” one fan exclaimed, while another tweeted, “He just radiates infectious energy, I can't help but smile!! He might be our next DWTS winner.”

His charm and undeniable chemistry with Johnson has many predicting he could go far this season. Fans are already rallying behind the reality star, calling his performance “a highlight of the night.”

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What’s Next ? 

The drama has already begun, and it’s clear that DWTS season 33 will have no shortage of controversial moments and show-stopping performances. With a cast full of polarizing figures and fan favorites – it’s anyone’s guess who will take home the mirrorball trophy.

What new moves are you hoping to see this season? Let us know what you think of the cast so far!

Photo Credit: @dancingwiththestars on Instagram.