Laois’s winning Rose of Tralee, Katelyn Cummins, has been confirmed as the latest contestant for Dancing With The Stars.
The hit RTE show, which will return for its ninth season in January 2026, will contain the Ballyouskill native.
Katelyn will become the second person from Laois to take part on the show after comedian Bernard O’Shea competed in 2018.
A proud farmer, Katelyn is also an apprentice electrician with Alpha Drives in Portlaoise.
She made history in August when she became Laois’s first ever winning Rose of Tralee.
Speaking to RTE, Katelyn says that since winning in Tralee, she is determined to take on every challenge that comes her way.
She said: “Since 19 August, when I was handed the International Rose of Tralee sash, I promised myself that I would take every opportunity that came my way and make the most of this amazing year.
“I’m beyond grateful and so excited to be part of this year’s Dancing with the Stars.
“My parents were the first to know. Their unwavering support has gotten me to where I am today.
“I hope I can continue to make them proud and be an inspiration for my younger sister and brother.
“From Irish dancing to set dancing and school musicals, dance has always been something I’ve enjoyed.
“I’d love to master the jive as it’s been a personal favourite of mine over the last few years when dancing with my mam and my friends.
“It is a completely new world to me, a big change from the snickers and steel toe cap boots, but I cannot wait to get stuck in and give it my all.”
