Guillermo Rodriguez, best known as Jimmy Kimmel’s beloved sidekick on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” is stepping into a brand-new spotlight as he joins the cast of “Dancing with the Stars” for the reality competition show’s upcoming 35th season. The announcement was made on the late-night talk show, with Jimmy Kimmel proudly revealing the exciting news.
Jimmy Kimmel made an important announcement on the June 17 episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” The host said that he was authorized by Walt Disney Company and ABC to reveal the name of a celebrity contestant who would be competing on “Dancing with the Stars” Season 35.
“This person is someone you know, someone you love, someone we know quite well. Do you know who it is, Guillermo?” Kimmel asked his sidekick. Guillermo, donning his usual suit and tie, answered, “No, but I couldn’t wait to find out.”
Kimmel proceeded to tease the audience with a few more words, complete with a drum roll, before the curtains opened, revealing Guillermo wearing a turquoise satin salsa attire, complete with arm ruffles. Guillermo showed a preview of his dance moves as he approached Kimmel.
Fans Share Their Excitement Over The News
Guillermo told Kimmel how excited he was to join the competition show, adding that he was ready for the challenge. “Don’t lose a single adorable pound, okay. Do you promise?” the host told Guillermo, to which he replied, “I promise. If I lose five pounds, I’m gonna gain 10 pounds. Back right away.”
Carrie Ann Inaba, one of the judges on “Dancing with the Stars,” left a comment, writing, “Brilliant! Can’t wait to see you in the ballroom!” Former “DWTS” judge and returning co-host, Julianne Hough, also shared her enthusiasm, saying, “Beyond excited to be in the ballroom together – when in doubt, shake it out Guillermo,” followed by a fire emoji.
Users expressed excitement on social media, with one writing, “This will be my first time ever to watch DWTS. Doing it for you, G!” “We’re taking Guillermo to the finals,” another added.
Guillermo Went From Security Guard To Sidekick
Guillermo has been on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since 2003 and is often referred to as the show’s security guard. However, not many know that the TV personality was, indeed, a security guard at the set’s parking lot.
Guillermo recounted how he came to be Kimmel’s sidekick in a conversation with PEOPLE in 2021. “When I got this job, I was in the parking lot and I was sleeping in Dicky’s car, the announcer. He opened the door, he goes, ‘What are you doing here?’ I go, ‘I’m trying to sleep — I’m so sorry’,” Guillermo said, referring to the show’s former announcer, Dicky Barrett.
The security guard juggled a few jobs at that time, and he found a place to rest in Barrett’s unlocked vehicle. Instead of reprimanding him, Kimmel decided to put him in front of the camera. He appeared as Michael Jackson’s fictional Spanish cook in a comedic bit, and later appeared on the recurring comedy segment “Security Night Live” with Kimmel’s uncle, Frank Potenza.
Guillermo Rodriguez And Jimmy Kimmel Forged A Friendship
Throughout the years, Guillermo appeared as various fictional characters in comedy sketches for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” He later became Kimmel’s right-hand man and has become a staple of the show, occasionally reacting to jokes and chiming in during interviews.
Kimmel and Guillermo have built a genuine friendship beyond the cameras. Kimmel even named his youngest son, William John, nicknamed Billy, after Guillermo, whose name is the Spanish equivalent of William. In return, Kimmel is also the godfather of Guillermo’s only son, Benji, further reflecting the close bond the two have shared over the years.
Other ‘DWTS’ Contestants Named
Guillermo is the fourth contestant announced to join “DWTS” Season 35. Other celebrities competing in the upcoming season include “Summer House” star Ciara Miller, “The Traitors” contestant Maura Higgins, and Savannah Bananas player Jackson Olson.
The full list of celebrity contestants and professional dancers will be officially announced on “Good Morning America” on September 2. “Dancing with the Stars” Season 35 is scheduled to premiere in the fall.