Season 18 of FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance is wrapping up, but fans are already buzzing with excitement — and questions — about what’s next. As Season 19 (2026) approaches, one of the biggest talking points is the judging panel.
Will familiar faces return? Or is the show planning a major shakeup behind the judges’ table? Here’s everything we know so far about who’s staying, who’s leaving, and what changes could be coming for So You Think You Can Dance Season 19.
So You Think You Can Dance 2026 (Season 19): What’s Happening With the Judges?
As So You Think You Can Dance Season 18 comes to an end, fans are already turning their attention to what’s next. The big question? Who will return to the judging panel for Season 19 in 2026.
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No Official Renewal Yet — But It’s Likely Coming
FOX has yet to officially renew SYTYCD 2026, but given the momentum of Season 18’s return, many expect it’s only a matter of time. With casting changes being such a major focus last season, viewers are eager to know which judges might be back — and who might not.
Season 18 Featured a Brand-New Panel
After a two-year break, So You Think You Can Dance returned in March 2024 with a brand-new format and fresh judging faces:
- Maks Chmerkovskiy (Dancing With the Stars pro)
- Allison Holker (SYTYCD alum and beloved fan favorite)
- Comfort Fedoke (guest judge during auditions)
JoJo Siwa later replaced Fedoke during the performance rounds. Originally, SYTYCD co-creator Nigel Lythgoe had been set to return, but stepped down after serious misconduct allegations.
Host Cat Deeley also returned to lead Season 18 — as she has since Season 2.
Allison Holker: Most Likely to Return?
Among the judges, Allison Holker stands out as the most likely to return. Not only is she deeply connected to the show, but she also shares a meaningful legacy with her late husband Stephen “tWitch” Boss, a former SYTYCD All-Star and judge. Holker has shared that judging on the show has made her feel closer to him, saying he always envisioned her at the panel.
“It feels like a space I was always meant to be in,” Holker said before Season 18 premiered.
Maks May Be Too Busy — But Loved His Role
Maksim Chmerkovskiy expressed how much he loved judging on SYTYCD, calling it a “dream job.” However, with his wife Peta Murgatroyd expecting their third child — just months after welcoming their second — his return is uncertain due to family priorities.
Could JoJo Siwa Return?
JoJo Siwa, a familiar face in reality competition TV, might return. With experience on Dance Moms, DWTS, and Special Forces, and now twice appearing on SYTYCD, she’s a strong candidate if FOX wants to keep the energy high and the audience young.e to stay tuned for updates on the Season 19 judging lineup.
