A Surprising Decline from a Natural Athlete

Michael Strahan is no stranger to the spotlight, with a career that spans from a stellar 15-season career in the NFL to his current role as a beloved co-host on Good Morning America. Known for his larger-than-life personality, Strahan has become a household name. However, despite his fame and charismatic presence, Strahan recently made it clear that one opportunity is simply not for him—competing on Dancing with the Stars.

Strahan’s refusal to participate in the competition surprised some, especially since so many former athletes have graced the show’s stage over the years. NFL stars like Emmitt Smith, Jerry Rice, and Rashad Jennings have joined Dancing with the Stars and even taken home the mirrorball trophy. Yet, Strahan’s stance remains firm: he will not be one of them.

Strahan’s Perspective on Dancing with the Stars

On the May 13, 2025 episode of Good Morning America, Strahan spoke candidly about his reasons for avoiding the Dancing with the Stars competition. When co-host Lara Spencer joked about the possibility of Strahan joining the show, Dancing with the Stars co-host Alfonso Ribeiro quickly chimed in, teasing that Strahan could bring in the whole New York audience. The suggestion was lighthearted, but Strahan immediately shut it down, laughing off the idea.

Strahan made it clear that his decision was rooted in practicality, humorously saying, “My joints are too old and brittle.” As a former NFL player, Strahan has had his fair share of physical injuries, and he has always been open about the toll that a career in professional football takes on the body. While he is in great shape for his age, Strahan feels that the physical demands of Dancing with the Stars would be too much for him to handle at this stage in his life.

Duffy’s Reluctance: The Toll of Competitive Dance

Strahan’s reluctance to join the Dancing with the Stars competition is also rooted in the feedback from other athletes who have participated in the show. Many former NFL stars, including Hines Ward, Antonio Brown, and Terrell Owens, have confessed that Dancing with the Stars was more physically demanding than they initially anticipated. The hours of practice, the intense choreography, and the pressure of live performances have proven to be a significant challenge—even for professional athletes known for their incredible physical strength and endurance.

“I think what scared me is that every professional football player and athlete who has been on the show said it was the hardest thing they’ve ever done,” Strahan explained. For someone who spent his career on the football field, that statement carries weight. Strahan knows that competing on the show would require an immense amount of dedication, stamina, and flexibility—all of which are tough to summon after years of intense physical competition.

A Fun Alternative: George Stephanopoulos?

Strahan’s playful back-and-forth with Ribeiro also led him to make a suggestion of his own. Strahan proposed George Stephanopoulos, another member of the Good Morning America team, as a potential candidate for Dancing with the Stars. “George would do it, though,” Strahan remarked, laughing. This sparked a wave of reactions from fans, as many joked that Stephanopoulos might indeed be a good fit for the ballroom competition, especially after Strahan’s suggestion.

Stephanopoulos, who is known for his serious and professional demeanor on GMA, might seem like an unlikely candidate for a dance competition, but Strahan’s lighthearted suggestion adds a layer of humor and camaraderie to the ongoing conversation about which stars could potentially participate in the future.

A Life Focused on Family and Career

Strahan’s decision also speaks to his evolving priorities. Having transitioned from football to a career in television, Strahan now enjoys a more stable routine. As a co-host of Good Morning America, he is able to maintain a demanding schedule while also dedicating time to his family. “Next month my son turns 5, and I have a 2½-year-old daughter,” Strahan shared in an interview. For Strahan, his family has become the priority.

His refusal to compete on Dancing with the Stars reflects this shift in focus, as he now values spending time with his children and being present for their milestones more than chasing another career achievement. Strahan’s commitment to being a hands-on father is evident in his decision to stay away from the physically demanding competition.

A Guest Judge, Not a Contestant

While Strahan won’t be competing on Dancing with the Stars, he has had the chance to engage with the show in other ways. In October 2023, Strahan joined the judges’ panel for Dancing with the Stars’ Motown night, offering his insights and critiques as part of the celebrity judge team. His appearance as a guest judge was well-received, as his natural charisma and experience in the public eye made him an entertaining addition to the panel.

For Strahan, being a guest judge allows him to enjoy the Dancing with the Stars experience without the physical strain of participating. He can still engage with the contestants and the audience, offering his unique perspective on the performances, but without the pressure of dancing himself. This seems to be the perfect balance for Strahan, allowing him to maintain his involvement with the show while staying true to his priorities.

Conclusion: Strahan’s Legacy Beyond the Dance Floor

Michael Strahan’s decision to stay away from Dancing with the Stars proves that, while he’s an accomplished athlete and television personality, he is also someone who knows his limits. Strahan’s refusal to compete on the show is rooted in practicality, a focus on family, and a deep respect for the physical demands of competitive dance. While his fans may never see him win the mirrorball trophy, they can still enjoy his wit, humor, and charm as a judge or co-host.

As Strahan continues to build his career in television and focus on his family life, it’s clear that he will remain an influential figure, admired for his accomplishments both on and off the field. Whether he’s hosting Good Morning America or judging a Dancing with the Stars competition, Strahan will always be an inspiration—proving that you can evolve and prioritize what truly matters in life.