Anna Delvey Joins Cast of Dancing With the Stars Amid Controversy

Convicted con artist Anna Delvey has announced her participation in the upcoming season of ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” (DWTS). Delvey, who was convicted in 2019 of multiple felony charges including grand larceny, revealed that her journey to appear on the show involved securing approval from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The 33-year-old Delvey, whose real name is Anna Sorokin, will be one of several celebrities competing for the Mirror Ball trophy when the famous dance competition returns on September 17, 2024. After her casting was announced, she stated, “I kind of got talked into doing this. I got the permission from ICE and then it was kind of too late to back out.”

Delvey was released from prison in February 2021 but was subsequently taken into ICE custody for allegedly overstaying her visa. She is currently under home confinement as she disputes her deportation case, having been ordered to wear an ankle monitor.

The announcement of her DWTS casting has sparked backlash on social media, with some viewers questioning her involvement given her history of fraud, including swindling nearly $275,000 from various individuals and businesses.

In a recent interview, Delvey commented on the criticism, stating, “If someone is that upset about casting on a dancing show, I don’t know what to tell them.” The show’s producers described her as a “notorious ankle bracelet fashionista” and have showcased her in promotional materials wearing a sequined dress and ballroom shoes along with her ankle monitor.

Delvey’s participation has also drawn commentary from the hosts of ABC’s daytime talk show, “The View.” Whoopi Goldberg expressed concern for families affected by ICE actions and questioned the fairness of Delvey’s situation compared to others.

As a contentious figure, Delvey’s journey from convict to television star raises significant discussions about redemption and the consequences of criminal behavior, especially as she attempts to re-establish herself in the public eye.