Despite reports that ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” was tailoring itself to better attract high-profile celebrities, its upcoming cycle seems to lack any obvious ratings draws.
While some of the names could end up producing entertainment as the reality competition ensues, none seem to have the irrefutable, headline-grabbing appeal of previous contestants like Bristol Palin, Kate Gosselin and “The Situation.” Rumored names like “Snooki,” who would have fallen into that group, did not come through on the final casting sheet.
There are also no clear “A-listers,” whom sources like TMZ were a target casting contingent.
Still, it is hard to rule out the likelihood of “Dancing with the Stars” again dominating the Monday and Tuesday ratings races.
The actual cast does, however, include some intriguing names. As reported by Headline Planet, Ron Artest ended up signing on for the show. “Stars” like Nancy Grace, David Arquette and Kristin Cavallari are also in the mix this season.
The full list of contestants is as follows:
David Arquette
Nancy Grace
Kristin Cavalleri
Ricki Lake
Chynna Phillips
Carson Kressley
Ron Artest
Hope Solo
Elisabetta Canalis
Rob Kardashian
J.R. Martinez
Chaz Bono
