Eric Roberts Steps onto the Dance Floor for Dancing with the Stars

Ireland AM host Eric Roberts has been confirmed as the sixth contestant for the ninth series of Dancing with the Stars, set to return to RTÉ One and RTÉ Player in January 2026. The announcement was made on December 12, 2025, by RTÉ and reported by RTÉ and EVOKE.

From Social Media to the Ballroom

Roberts, originally from Donegal, first gained prominence through his engaging social media presence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where he has amassed over 1 million followers, as noted by Donegal Daily. He recently expanded his career by joining the weekend team at Ireland AM.

A Multi-Talented Performer

Before his television career, Roberts spent approximately eight years working as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) in Donegal, supporting students in both autism units and mainstream schools. He also channeled his passion for dance earlier in his life, forming a duo called Static Movement with Vinny Mc Laughlin. The pair competed on Sky Television’s Got To Dance in 2012 and Ireland’s Got Talent in 2018, according to Donegal Daily.

Balancing Family and Competition

Roberts expressed both excitement and apprehension about joining Dancing with the Stars, stating, “I’m so excited to get stuck into training and equally terrified at what lies ahead!” He acknowledged the significant time commitment, especially with a young son, Rían, born on January 1, 2025, and credited his wife, Niamh, for her encouragement to participate, as reported by RTÉ.

A Passion for Dance

Roberts revealed a lifelong love for dance, having taught himself hip hop moves inspired by the film Step Up. He playfully suggested he might revisit those moves during the competition, as stated in RTÉ.

Beyond the Dance Floor

In addition to his television and social media work, Roberts is also an author, having released his debut children’s book, Gary the Stinky Goose, earlier in 2025. The book was inspired by his experiences as an SNA and his nephew, Oisín, who has cerebral palsy and autism, as detailed by RTÉ and Donegal Daily.