Harry Shum Jr. is trading the halls of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital for the ballroom, as the beloved actor has been officially confirmed as part of the Dancing with the Stars Season 35 cast. The news was announced during the Season 35 cast reveal on Good Morning America on September 2, 2026. This marks a significant return to his performance roots for the actor, who is well-known for his early career as a professional dancer.
Shum will be partnered with the show’s seasoned professional dancer, Jenna Johnson, for the upcoming season. The pairing brings together Shum’s extensive dance background with one of the show’s most accomplished pros.
Who Is Harry Shum Jr.?
Harry Shum Jr. is a Chinese-American actor, dancer, and singer who has had a successful career in both television and film. He first gained fame for his role as Mike Chang on the hit Fox series Glee. Following his breakout on Glee, he continued to build his resume with leading roles in various television shows and blockbuster films.
Harry Shum Jr. Joins Dancing with the Stars Season 35
The official announcement of the Season 35 cast came on September 2, 2026. Shum was revealed as one of the 16 celebrities competing for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy this season. The actor demonstrated his readiness for the competition during the Good Morning America segment, impressing the show’s judges by performing an impromptu dance move.
Harry Shum Jr.’s Dance Background
While Harry Shum Jr. is famous for his acting, he began his career as a professional dancer. His background makes him a formidable contestant on the show. Shum started his career as a backup dancer for major artists, including Beyoncé, Missy Elliott, and Alicia Keys during their “Ladies First Tour” in 2004. He also made his mark in dance-focused films, appearing in Stomp the Yard, Step Up 2: The Streets, and Step Up 3D. This technical skill set is expected to give him a unique advantage in the competition.
Harry Shum Jr. on Glee
Harry Shum Jr.’s most recognizable role is arguably that of Mike Chang on the musical comedy-drama series Glee. Starting as a recurring character in 2009, Mike Chang’s role expanded significantly in subsequent seasons, becoming a main cast member and fan favorite. His character was known for his impressive dance skills and his on-and-off-again romance with Tina Cohen-Chang. He was nominated for four Screen Actors Guild Awards for his performance in Glee and won once with the cast.
Harry Shum Jr. in Shadowhunters
Following Glee, Shum took on the lead role of Magnus Bane in the Freeform series Shadowhunters. This role showcased a more dramatic and complex side of his acting abilities, earning him significant acclaim. His portrayal of the powerful and charismatic warlock earned him multiple award nominations and he ultimately won the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Male TV Star in 2018.
Harry Shum Jr. on Grey’s Anatomy
More recently, Harry Shum Jr. has been a familiar face on the long-running medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. His character appears in current episodes, giving him an active and recognizable presence for the audience.
Harry Shum Jr. Beyond Acting
Beyond television, Shum has had an impactful film career. He starred alongside Constance Wu in the record-breaking romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians. He also appeared in the 2020 romantic drama All My Life and other films such as Love Hard and Escape Plan: The Extractors.
Who Is Harry Shum Jr.’s DWTS Partner?
Harry Shum Jr.’s professional partner for Season 35 is veteran dancer Jenna Johnson. Johnson is a highly accomplished pro on the show, known for her technical skill and choreography.
What to Expect From Harry Shum Jr. on DWTS Season 35
Given Harry Shum Jr.’s extensive history as a professional dancer, he is expected to be a strong contender in Season 35. While his rhythm and technical ability give him a solid foundation, a key challenge for him will be adapting to ballroom dance styles like the Waltz and Foxtrot, which may be a departure from his experience in hip-hop and jazz. His partnership with Jenna Johnson is likely to be a dynamic one, as she is known for her strong teaching skills and ability to bring out the best in her celebrity partners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Harry Shum Jr.?
Harry Shum Jr. is an actor, dancer, and singer best known for his roles as Mike Chang on Glee, Magnus Bane on Shadowhunters, and his recent work on Grey’s Anatomy.
Is Harry Shum Jr. joining Dancing with the Stars?
Yes, Harry Shum Jr. was officially announced as a contestant for Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars on September 2, 2026.
Who is Harry Shum Jr.’s DWTS partner?
His professional dance partner is Jenna Johnson.
What is Harry Shum Jr. known for?
He is known for playing Mike Chang on Glee, Magnus Bane on Shadowhunters, and has appeared in films like Crazy Rich Asians.
Was Harry Shum Jr. a dancer before becoming an actor?
Yes, he began his career as a professional dancer, performing as a backup dancer for artists like Beyoncé, and appearing in films like Step Up 3D.
What role did Harry Shum Jr. play on Glee?
He played Mike Chang, a member of the glee club known for his singing and dancing abilities.
When does Dancing with the Stars Season 35 start?
The season premieres with a two-night event starting Tuesday, September 15, 2026, on ABC and Disney+.