Tributes Pour in for 'Dancing With the Stars' Icon Harold Wheeler, 82

WHO:

Deadline - Harold Wheeler, a prolific and Tony-winning Broadway orchestrator, composer, and conductor.

Deadline - Lamar Richardson, a Broadway producer and longtime family friend, announced Wheeler's death.

WHAT:

Deadline - Harold Wheeler served as the musical director for ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" for 17 seasons.

NY Post - Cast members of "Dancing with the Stars" paid tribute to Harold Wheeler, calling him a "legend" and "friend."

Deadline - Wheeler died following a lengthy illness.

WHERE:

Deadline - Harold Wheeler died at his home in Los Angeles.

WHEN:

Deadline - Harold Wheeler died on June 24, 2026.

WHY:

Deadline - The cause of death was a lengthy illness.

HOW:

Deadline - Wheeler's contributions to "Dancing with the Stars" were noted as helping to build "so much of the magic we all know," according to Derek Hough.

(UPDATED June 26, 2026 04:25 UTC)

Harold Wheeler, a celebrated Broadway orchestrator, composer, and conductor, has passed away at his home in Los Angeles following a lengthy illness, as announced by Broadway producer Lamar Richardson. Known for his role as the musical director on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" for 17 seasons, Wheeler was remembered by cast members as a "legend" and a "friend," with Derek Hough highlighting his contributions as essential to the show's magic. His impact on the world of music and entertainment will be cherished by many who knew him and his work.