Is Olympic Gold Medalist Jutta Leerdam Joining Dancing With the Stars? All the Clues Explained

Dutch speed skating superstar Jutta Leerdam has been unusually quiet since winning gold at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics. But fans think her silence might actually be a very loud hint that she’s trading her skates for dancing shoes.

Here’s everything we know so far—explained simply.

Who Is Jutta Leerdam?

• Olympic Champion: Won gold in the 1000m speed skating event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.
• Record Setter: She didn’t just win—she set a new Olympic record.
• Engaged to Jake Paul: Yes, that Jake Paul. The couple is currently planning their wedding.
• Social Media Star: Huge following on TikTok and Instagram, where she shares life updates, fitness, and now… dance videos?

The Clues She Might Be on DWTS

Fans and journalists have spotted three major hints that Jutta is joining Dancing With the Stars Season 35.

1. The Mysterious TikTok

• What she posted: A video of herself dancing.
• The text on screen: "When you’re working on exciting things."
• The caption: Just three ballet dancer emojis
• Why it matters: It’s vague on purpose—but "exciting things" + dancing = classic DWTS tease.

2. She’s in the U.S., Not on the Ice

• Normally, elite speed skaters train year-round at Thialf in Heerenveen, Netherlands.
• Jutta has spent months in the U.S. (often in Puerto Rico with Jake).
• Zero time on the ice with her teammates this season.

3. Her Teammates Confirmed She’s Not Skating

Dutch news outlet NU.nl talked to her training partners:

Kai Verbij: "I don’t expect Jutta to be on the ice this season. If you haven’t trained for six months, it is very difficult to start a season without preparation."

Femke Kok: "I told her after the Games that I really hope she continues. But I don’t know if she followed my advice," she joked.

Translation: She’s not skating. She’s doing something else in America.

Olympians Love Dancing With the Stars

This wouldn’t be a first. 23 Olympians have competed for the Mirrorball Trophy.

Fun Fact: Jutta follows Ezra Sosa on Instagram. Coincidence? Maybe. But fans don’t think so.

When Will We Know for Sure?

Mark Your Calendar

The full Season 35 cast will be announced on Good Morning America on September 2.

Until then, the detective work continues.

Important Points to Remember

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Jutta Leerdam = Olympic gold medalist speed skater + Jake Paul’s fiancée.
• She hasn’t trained on ice in 6+ months.
• She posted a dance video teasing "exciting things."
• Her teammates say she’s not skating this season.
• DWTS has a long history of Olympian contestants.
• Official cast reveal: September 2 on GMA.

Summary

Jutta Leerdam just made history on the ice. Now, all signs point to her making a splash on the ballroom floor. Between her TikTok clues, her absence from training, and her teammates’ comments, it’s looking very likely she’ll be part of Dancing With the Stars Season 35. We’ll get the official answer on September 2—so stay tuned!

FAQ

1. Has Jutta Leerdam confirmed she’s on DWTS?

No. She hasn’t said anything officially. All evidence is based on social media clues and teammate interviews.

2. Why would she skip a whole skating season?

Top athletes sometimes take a "gap year" after the Olympics for rest, mental health, or new opportunities—like a TV show.

3. Do Olympians usually do well on DWTS?

Yes! Olympians are used to intense training, discipline, and performing under pressure. Many make the finals or win (like Shawn Johnson, Apolo Ohno, and Kristi Yamaguchi).

4. Who is Ezra Sosa, and why does it matter that Jutta follows him?

Ezra is a DWTS pro dancer. He was Jordan Chiles’ partner last season (they got 3rd place). Jutta following him could be a hint they’re partnered—or just fan support.

5. When does DWTS Season 35 start?

The cast is announced September 2, but the show typically premieres mid-to-late September on ABC/Disney+.

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