The year 2026 marks a distinctive turning point in how we approach mental and physical health. Moving away from purely cognitive therapies, the focus has shifted toward body-oriented, somatic methods, with dance emerging as a primary weapon against the modern epidemic of exhaustion. As scientific research validates the profound impact of rhythmic movement on the brain, television is gearing up to showcase this transformation on a massive scale with the return of the hit show “Let’s Dance.”
The Neuroscience of Movement
While 2025 was dominated by the resurgence of running clubs, the wellness landscape has evolved. Social health trends are now populating dance studios and “Ecstatic Dance” events. Experts identify these somatic practices as the year’s dominant wellness strategy, largely because chronic stress and trauma are often stored within the nervous system and tissue. Where traditional talk therapy hits a wall, dance intervenes.
A significant study conducted in March 2025 by researchers at the University of Surrey and Radboud University provided concrete evidence for this shift. The findings demonstrated that dance triggers measurable physiological changes, functioning as a somatic method to lower stress hormones, foster neuroplasticity, and effectively combat depression. Through intuitive movement, the body can physically process and release pent-up stress—a mechanism therapists refer to as “somatic release.” It is no longer just a hobby; it is establishing itself as a form of preventive medicine.
Season 19: The Search for the Dancing Star
Against this backdrop of heightened health awareness, RTL’s long-running hit “Let’s Dance” is entering its 19th season. Much like the 2026 edition of the Jungle Camp, the dance competition remains a staple of German television. While an official start date hasn’t been locked in, history suggests a kickoff in mid-to-late February. Last year’s season began with the introductory show on February 21, 2025.
The format is expected to remain consistent with previous years. Following the launch, where celebrities are paired with their professional partners, the season will likely span 12 episodes aired live on Fridays at 8:15 PM. Fans should note that the broadcast schedule will include a break for Good Friday on April 3.
The 2026 Roster
The cast for the upcoming season is nearly complete, with 13 of the 14 celebrity slots filled. According to an announcement from RTL on Thursday, January 15, only one female candidate is still needed to finalize the lineup. The network has promised that the identity of this final mystery dancer will be revealed shortly.
Among those already confirmed to hit the parquet is 31-year-old model Betty Taube. A former “Germany’s Next Top Model” contestant who secured fourth place in 2014, Taube has since built a career as a presenter, author, and content creator. despite describing herself as the “world’s least athletic person,” she is approaching the competition with high motivation. She has expressed immense excitement about immersing herself in the world of dance and preparing for the grueling live shows.
A Mix of Glamour and Hard Work
Joining Taube is a veteran of the spotlight, Ross Antony. The 51-year-old entertainer describes himself as a “Let’s Dance super-fan from day one.” Born in England and raised in an artistic family, Antony has spent his life on stage. He first broke through to a mass audience in 2001 on the casting show “Popstars” as a member of Bro’Sis and later won the hearts of viewers by winning the Jungle Camp in 2008.
Antony is looking forward to the unique combination of music, training, and what he calls “that special mix of glamour and hard work.” As the final preparations for the season get underway, both the celebrities and their professional partners are standing in the starting blocks, ready to demonstrate exactly what the scientists have been saying: that dance is one of the most powerful tools for body and mind.
