The usually vibrant world of "Dancing With The Stars" (DWTS) finds itself under a cloud as some viewers declare their intention to boycott the show's latest season. This isn't about the cha-cha or the tango; it's about a protest against the network airing the program, ABC.

At the heart of this boycott lies the recent suspension of Jimmy Kimmel, the host of the popular late-night talk show, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!". The decision to suspend Kimmel stems from comments he allegedly made regarding the response to a controversial event. While the specifics remain somewhat murky, it's clear that this action by ABC has ignited a firestorm of controversy.

Some reports suggest Kimmel's comments were critical of the reaction to the Charlie Hebdo attack. This act, perceived by some as an infringement on freedom of speech, has led to mounting pressure from regulators, ultimately culminating in Kimmel's suspension. The situation has resonated deeply with a segment of the DWTS viewing audience.

The core sentiment expressed by these boycotting viewers is one of disappointment. They had eagerly anticipated the new season of DWTS, but the controversy surrounding Kimmel's suspension has dampened their enthusiasm. For many, DWTS is a beloved tradition, a source of joy and entertainment that now feels tainted by the larger issues at play.

One frustrated fan articulated their feelings succinctly: "I'm so freaking disappointed. After being excited for this season for months, and getting so hyped last night... this has thrown a bucket of rancid water over all of it." This sentiment encapsulates the disappointment and disillusionment felt by many long-time viewers.

Another viewer, echoing this sentiment, shared that DWTS has been a weekly highlight for them since 2013. They emphasized the power of individual action, stating, "I may just be one person, but if 'JUST' one person decides to boycott, the more and more people will show that we aren't tolerating it." This highlights the intention behind the boycott: to send a message to ABC.

The call for a boycott extends beyond simply refraining from watching the show live on ABC. Some viewers are taking more drastic measures, such as canceling their subscriptions to Disney+, another streaming service owned by ABC. This reflects a desire to financially impact the network and express their disapproval in a tangible way.

The decision to cancel Disney+ subscriptions stems from the fact that DWTS is also available on the platform. By cutting off this revenue stream, viewers aim to amplify their message and demonstrate the potential financial consequences of ABC's actions.

However, the internet being the resourceful place it is, some viewers are seeking loopholes to avoid missing out on their favorite dance competition. A common strategy involves waiting to watch the show online after it has aired, either through alternative platforms or by catching snippets on social media.

This approach allows viewers to enjoy DWTS without directly contributing to ABC's viewership figures. It's a form of passive resistance, a way to indulge in their guilty pleasure while simultaneously registering their protest.

One fan cleverly stated their intention to "watch it on elsewhere online" to avoid boosting ABC's numbers. Another agreed, saying "I cancelled my Disney+ subscription last night. The pros all post their dances to their IG the next day so I’ll watch that way."

The 34th season of DWTS also marks the show's 20th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its enduring popularity. The show first graced our screens in June 2005, quickly captivating audiences with its blend of celebrity performances and professional dance expertise.

Unfortunately for ABC, the timing of this boycott coincides with the premiere of the new season, potentially impacting the show's initial ratings. Whether this boycott will have a significant long-term impact on viewership remains to be seen, but the initial signs suggest a degree of public discontent.

The show's broadcast schedule further complicates matters. DWTS initially airs on ABC, followed by its release on streaming platforms like Hulu the next day. This staggered release means that the boycott could affect both live viewership and streaming numbers.

The fact that DWTS is available on Disney+ adds another layer to the situation. By canceling their subscriptions, viewers are directly impacting Disney's revenue, demonstrating the widespread reach of the protest. This strategic move could potentially send a stronger message to the network.

As of now, ABC has remained silent on the brewing boycott, choosing not to address the controversy publicly. This lack of response has further fueled the frustration of some viewers, who feel that their concerns are being ignored.

The future of DWTS's viewership remains uncertain. While a dedicated fanbase will undoubtedly continue to tune in, the impact of the boycott could be significant, particularly in the early weeks of the season. The network's response, or lack thereof, will likely play a crucial role in shaping the long-term outcome.

It is crucial to note that the core of the issue transcends mere entertainment preferences. It speaks to viewers' sense of fairness, freedom of expression, and the power of collective action. The DWTS boycott has become a microcosm of larger societal debates surrounding censorship and accountability.

The situation serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of media, entertainment, and social issues. Viewers are no longer passive consumers; they are active participants, willing to express their opinions and hold media companies accountable for their actions.

Ultimately, the DWTS boycott is a testament to the power of the audience. It's a demonstration of how viewers can mobilize and make their voices heard, even in the seemingly trivial world of reality television. Whether or not this particular boycott proves successful, it highlights the growing awareness and activism among media consumers.

Only time will tell how this boycott impacts the overall ratings and future of Dancing With The Stars. However, the message from a segment of the audience is clear: they are willing to stand up for what they believe in, even if it means sacrificing their weekly dose of dance competition.

As the season progresses, it will be interesting to observe whether ABC chooses to address the controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's suspension. Their response, or continued silence, will undoubtedly shape the future relationship between the network and its viewers.