There is something inherently captivating about watching someone step completely out of their comfort zone. For over three decades, ABC’s Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) has spun that exact vulnerability into gold, transforming athletes, actors, reality TV icons, and internet personalities into ballroom dancers.

What started as a simple adaptation of Britain’s Strictly Come Dancing has evolved into a massive cultural phenomenon, pulling in millions of votes every season and keeping the art of ballroom dance alive in prime-time television.

Kim dancing with the stars

@angelo_is_petty …At least she remembered to smile. #Kimk #kimkardashian #dwts #dancingwiththestars #2008 #kuwtk #thewomaninme #celebgossip #angeloispetty ♬ Baby Got Back – Sir Mix-A-Lot