Kellie Pickler Joins 'DWTS,' Promotes Cancer Awareness
Kellie Pickler, who shaved her head last year in order to encourage cancer awareness, has joined the cast of "Dancing With The Stars."
Season 16's full cast including Pickler was revealed on "Good Morning America" on Tuesday. Pickler marks the first time an "American Idol" alum has joined "DWTS," and the country music singer will join a slew of other celebrities on the reality series starting on Monday.
Last September, Pickler shaved off her signature blonde locks in order to boost breast cancer awareness and support her childhood friend, Summer Miller, who was diagnosed with the disease.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
"Cancer does not discriminate," explained the 26-year-old "Red High Heels" singer in a video featured on "Good Morning America" at the time- right before Miller began chemotherapy treatment.
"If this compels even one person to change their mentality toward waiting until the age of 40 for their mammogram, then it will be worth it," added Miller.
Meanwhile, Pickler appeared on "GMA" on Tuesday sporting a blonde pixie haircut during the "DWTS" cast reveals. The haircut is a lasting reminder of Pickler's efforts to shed light on preventing and treating cancer.
The "I Wonder" singer is paired with professional dancer and former "DWTS" champ Derek Hough as she competes for the Mirrorball trophy on the show this year.
Furthermore, Pickler joins fellow singer Wynonna Judd in the dancing competition as well as figure skating gold medalist Dorothy Hamill.
This season of "DWTS" will also see athletes Aly Raisman and NFL player Jacoby Jones as well as comedian D.L. Hughley and actor Ingo Rademacher.
The rest of the cast for season 16 includes Lisa Vanderpump, Andy Dick, Zendaya, and Victor Ortiz.
"DWTS" will kick off the season on ABC Monday, March 18. The show airs on the network on Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST.
Pickler will not be the only reminder of the threat of cancer. "DWTS" co-host Brooke Burke-Charvet recently underwent surgery and overcame thyroid cancer. The model and television personality has been outspoken about her experience and actively promotes cancer awareness.
