Julia Stiles Reveals Why She Finally Said Yes to ‘Dancing with the Stars’

Julia Stiles is finally joining Dancing with the Stars after turning down multiple invitations to compete in previous seasons.

The Save the Last Dance and 10 Things I Hate About You star, 45, told PEOPLE during an appearance on Good Morning America that she had been approached by the show several times but was unable to participate.

“They’ve asked me in previous years,” Stiles said. “Every year I say, ‘Oh my God, I love the show, and I would love to go on, but I just can’t do it.’”

Fear was one of the main reasons she declined. This year, however, Stiles decided the timing was right.

“I was like, ‘You only live once,’” she said.

Stiles will compete with professional dancer Ezra Sosa, who joined the show as a pro in Season 33. Sosa finished third last season with Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles.

Stiles said she was especially eager to be paired with Sosa and became nervous when they first met.

“I was literally shaking,” she said, adding that the reaction surprised her because of her experience performing on camera and on stage.

Sosa said he was equally nervous when Stiles arrived. “It’s also surreal when you have Julia Stiles walk in the door and she’s your partner,” he said.

As the new season approaches, Stiles said her nerves come in waves but believes they can help her stay focused.

“I think nerves are a good thing when they make you stand at attention,” she said. “You just don’t want to be overwhelmed by them.”

Sosa praised Stiles’ work ethic and progress during rehearsals, saying he is excited to watch her growth throughout the competition.

Dancing with the Stars returns for a two-night premiere on Tuesday, Sept. 15, and Wednesday, Sept. 16, on ABC and Disney+. Episodes will stream on Hulu the following day.