Kym Johnson skipping 'Dancing With the Stars 17'

Credit: ABC

While season 17 of Dancing With the Stars could see the return of a familiar face in the form of Maksim Chmerkovskiy, ABC has confirmed that this season will still be short at least one fan favorite.

The network has confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that professional ballroom dancer Kym Johnson will not participate in season 17 of Dancing With the Stars. However, the popular dancer will not be gone long. She is expected to return for season 18 in the spring, after spending time this fall working on a project in her native Australia.

Season 17 of Dancing With the Stars will premiere on Monday, September 16, with the cast being revealed live on Good Morning America on September 4.