Sekolapedia – 14 July 2026 | The ballroom is heating up as ABC unveils its latest television phenomenon, dancing with the stars the next pro. This brand-new spinoff series shifts the focus from celebrity contestants to the backbone of the franchise: the professional dancers themselves. Twelve elite performers, each with impressive backgrounds—some having worked with global superstars like Jennifer Lopez and Bad Bunny—have moved into a shared house in Australia to undergo a rigorous, high-pressure audition process. Their ultimate goal is to secure a coveted spot as a professional dancer for the upcoming 35th season of the flagship show.
Guiding these hopefuls through the grueling journey is Robert Irwin, the wildlife conservationist and reigning champion of the series. Irwin, who captured the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy during Season 34, brings a unique perspective to the role. Having transitioned from the wild, unpredictable world of zoology to the precision of the dance floor, he understands the necessity of passion and adaptability. For Irwin, hosting dancing with the stars the next pro is a chance to mentor the next generation, sharing the importance of teaching and supporting a partner—skills he credits his former partner, Witney Carson, for instilling in him.
The judging panel features a powerhouse duo: veteran champion Mark Ballas and his mother, Shirley Ballas. Widely regarded as the queen of Latin dance, Shirley brings unparalleled technical expertise to the table. Mark, a four-time Mirrorball champion, views this as a vital opportunity to identify dancers who possess not just technical prowess, but the versatility required to navigate the complex, nuanced life of a professional on the main show. According to Mark, the competition evaluates more than just footwork; it tests the contestants’ ability to choreograph, their chemistry, their teaching capabilities, and their emotional resilience under pressure.
The format of the show is designed to mimic the intensity of the real professional experience. In the premiere, the dancers face immediate challenges, including tests of their jive and samba techniques, with the weakest pair facing elimination. Mark Ballas emphasizes that in this environment, panic is the enemy. Success requires a calm, adaptable demeanor, as the show aims to peel back the layers of the contestants’ stories to see what they truly bring to the table. Throughout the season, a rotating lineup of current professional dancers will join the panel to serve as both judges and mentors, ensuring that the candidates are prepared for the high expectations of the ballroom.
Ultimately, dancing with the stars the next pro offers viewers an intimate look at the dedication required to become a dance professional. By moving the production to Australia and incorporating the high-energy, passionate environment that defines the franchise, the series serves as a testament to the hard work that goes on behind the scenes. As these twelve dancers compete for their big break, they are not just fighting for a trophy; they are fighting for a career-defining role that will place them at the center of one of television’s most beloved competitions. Whether they are seasoned performers or rising stars, only those who can master the technical challenges and embrace the pressure will see their names added to the professional roster for the fall season.
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