Noemi Bocchi is the fourth contestant on Dancing with the Stars.

Noemi Bocchi has been confirmed as the fourth contestant for the new season of Ballando con le Stelle, Italy’s popular dance competition. The announcement came through a social media video featuring her partner, former Rome football captain Francesco Totti, who playfully teased her with a reference to Michael Jackson. In the clip, Bocchi dances a moonwalk routine set to the song Billie Jean while watching a video of the pop icon. She asks Totti if she resembles Jackson, prompting him to reply, “Exactly. But did you have surgery on your hip?” The couple’s dynamic was evident throughout the video, which concluded with Bocchi informing her followers that she would soon appear on the show. The video, posted on Instagram in collaboration with the program's official account, marked Bocchi’s formal entry into the competition. It follows a period of anticipation among fans and critics alike, as the new season of Ballando con le Stelle is set to begin on October 3. The show, hosted by Milly Carlucci, will feature a mix of celebrities and public figures attempting to master various dance styles under the guidance of professional instructors. So far, four contestants have been announced: former football player Alessandro Matri, actress Aurora Ramazzotti, singer-songwriter Eugenio Finardi, and now Bocchi. The selection of Bocchi, however, sparked mixed reactions online. While some praised her enthusiasm and the potential entertainment value of her participation, others expressed skepticism about her suitability for the show. Critics questioned whether her status as Totti’s girlfriend made her eligible to be considered a “star,” given her lack of prior experience in the performing arts. Some comments suggested that her inclusion might be more related to media attention than genuine talent. Others took a lighter approach, joking about the possibility of Ilary Blasi, Totti’s ex-wife, joining the show as a guest performer following their recent divorce. Despite the controversy, Bocchi appears confident in her abilities. In a statement shared during the video, she mentioned her long-standing passion for dance, having performed professionally around the world in recent years. She emphasized her readiness to give her best and share her love for dancing with the audience. Her involvement in Burn the Floor, an international theatrical dance production, further underscores her commitment to the art form. Totti himself has a history with Ballando con le Stelle. He previously appeared as a special guest in the 2025 edition of Sognando Ballando con le Stelle, a spin-off of the main show. His presence in the video suggests that he may still have ties to the program, though there is currently no indication that he plans to return as a contestant this time around. The addition of Bocchi to the cast brings a new dimension to the upcoming season. With established names like Matri, Ramazzotti, and Finardi already confirmed, the competition promises to be highly anticipated. The choreographers for the season have also been revealed, including reigning champion Nikita Perrotti, who won last year alongside Andrea Delogu, and newcomer Gioia Giovanatti. Their expertise will be crucial in helping the contestants refine their skills over the coming weeks. As the start date approaches, viewers are likely to see increased activity on social media platforms, with updates on training sessions, costume reveals, and behind-the-scenes footage. The show’s producers have yet to confirm additional participants, leaving room for surprise additions that could further elevate the excitement surrounding the new season.