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New Dancing Lineup Adds Criminal Twists

Julianne's back; Jewel, Denise Richards, and 3 felons will compete

By Evann Gastaldo, Newser Staff

Posted Feb 9, 2009 6:56 AM CST

(Newser) – Dancing With the Stars is introducing a few new twists this season, including one couple competing against each other and another working together, USA Today reports. Returning pro Julianne Hough will partner with her real-life boyfriend—country singer Chuck Wicks—while singer Jewel will dance against rodeo-riding husband Ty Murray. Other high-profile competitors include Denise Richards, comedian David Alan Grier, and Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson.

Three of this season’s competitors are a bit “unpredictable,” according to the exec producer. To use another word: felons. Jackass alum Steve-O, rapper Lil’ Kim, and former footballer Lawrence Taylor all have criminal records: "Once you have someone with one leg, a deaf person, and an 82-year-old, it's hard to push the boundaries,” the producer said. “An air of wildness doesn't hurt.”

[Images (3)]

[Videos (1)]

Julianne Hough performs with former partner Helio Castroneves at the "Dancing with the Stars" Tour. This season, Hough will partner with real-life boyfriend Chuck Wicks. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)

Jewel Kilcher and husband Ty Murray arrive at the 2008 CMT Awards in Nashville, Tenn. The two will compete against each other this season on "Dancing with the Stars." (AP Photo/Evan Agostini/file)

In this July 19, 2008 file photo, actress Denise Richards poses at the Much Love Animal Rescue 2nd Annual Bow Wow WOW! in Los Angeles. Richards will compete this season on "Dancing With the Stars." (AP Images/Mark Davis, file)

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Joey Fatone and Kym Johnson perform on a previous season of "Dancing With the Stars." (zelda75231)

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New Dancing Lineup Adds Criminal Twists