Dancing with the Stars Ireland has made its highly anticipated return and gay comedian Gearóid Farrelly is one of the many talents competing. The lively series premiered on RTÉ One on Sunday, January 5, bringing back its usual blend of glitter, nerves and wobble choreography.

Farrelly is partnered with professional dancer Stephen Vincent, making him the only celebrity to compete in a same-sex partnership for the 2025 edition. Ahead of the opening night, the comedian reflected on the personal significance of this pairing, saying: “As a young gay kid, if I had seen two men dancing together on television, it would have been such a relief. To know this happens in the world, that it’s an option.” He recalled feeling deeply isolated when growing up in Ireland, expressing: “I didn’t even realise there were any other gay people.” 

Together, Gearóid and Stephen took on the tango to Dua Lipa’s ‘Training Season’. Although they started with a small slip, the pair recovered quickly and scored an impressive 28 points.

 

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While Gearóid Farrelly and Stephen Vincent are among the show’s fan favourites, the opening night of Dancing with the Stars Ireland also saw other well-known stars competing, such as queer Olympian Jack Woolley. Others dancing their way to our screens included TikTok star Kayleigh Trappe putting Monaghan on the map with an exuberant jive. Meanwhile, veteran chef Kevin Dundon leaned heavily into food props for his American smooth. 

The 2025 series introduces a notable change: the promotion of Karen Byrne, a two-time DWTS champion, to the judging panel. Byrne’s debut was assured, and her feel-good approach looks set to complement Brian Redmond’s sharper critiques, making her an early standout addition to the show.

For all the glitz, drama, and occasional awkward moves, it’s an unsteady first step for most competitors. With two weeks until the first elimination, the contestants will no doubt be relieved to have survived the Dancing with the Stars Ireland opening night, ready to pirouette into the challenges ahead.