Dancing With the Stars opened season 35 with the male celebrities leading the night. Eight men performed on the first night. Harry Shum Jr. and Ezra Frech were among the contestants who danced. Scores for all eight men were revealed after their routines.

The opening night showcased solo routines from every male celebrity. Each dancer had the floor. The judges marked each routine after every performance. Harry Shum Jr. delivered a standout routine to the stage. Ezra Frech joined the mix in the season's debut.

Conner Leavitt finished at the bottom after the opening night, becoming the first contestant cut this season. Pro Witney Carson hinted at a unique twist for the season, though she did not give details. The twist is being kept quiet for now. The show is moving ahead with more performances in upcoming episodes.