

Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro
2026 · 1 season · 8 episodes · Returning Series · ABC
Reality
12 exceptional up-and-coming dancers move into one house and compete in a grueling audition process, all vying for a coveted spot as a pro dancer on Season 35 of "Dancing with the Stars."
Episodes
- S01E01The Journey Begins: Technique with Derek Hough2026-07-1344m
Host Robert Irwin challenges 12 exceptional dancers to the ultimate audition for a pro spot on "Dancing with the Stars." Judges Shirley Ballas, Mark Ballas and Derek Hough test jive and samba techniques, with the weakest pair eliminated.
- S01E02Stories Without Words: Storytelling with Brandon Armstrong2026-07-2043m
The remaining 10 dancers must bring a personal story to life through dance. Mentored by Brandon Armstrong, they pair up to showcase connection, vulnerability and partnership. As pressure mounts, those who fail to connect risk elimination.
- S01E03You're Only as Strong as Your Weakest Link: Group Work with Britt Stewart2026-07-2743m
The remaining dancers face one of the toughest "Dancing with the Stars" challenges: a group performance. Mentored by Britt Stewart, they must master a high-intensity routine in just hours, putting teamwork, timing and resilience to the test.
- S01E04Bring on the Intensity: Chemistry with Jenna Johnson2026-08-0343m
Champion Jenna Johnson challenges the eight couples to create a passionate routine that builds trust and chemistry while tackling the Rumba and Argentine Tango. For the first time, they choose partners, but the lowest-scoring pair will be eliminated.
- S01E05Wow Moments with Daniella Karagach2026-08-1043m
The dancers must create unforgettable "wow" moments by incorporating one of Daniella Karagach's signature moves into a viral-worthy routine. Then, they visit the Australia Zoo for inspiration from the power and agility of animals in nature.
- S01E06But Can You Teach? Coaching Superfans with Witney Carson2026-08-1743m
Witney Carson joins to push dancers to face their toughest challenge yet, teaching ballroom novices. Paired with "Dancing with the Stars" superfans, they have just two days to prepare a performance as they compete for a spot in the semifinals.
- S01E07Paired with the Pros: Semi-Finals with Kym Johnson2026-08-2444m
The final four team up with "Dancing with the Stars" pros Rylee Arnold, Gleb Savchenko, Jan Ravnik and Witney Carson for two semifinal rounds, competing for a place in the finale. Two-time Mirrorball champion Kym Johnson joins as guest judge.
- S01E08The Final Step: Finale with Derek Hough and Witney Carson2026-08-3144m
The final three perform with former "Dancing with the Stars" finalists Charli D'Amelio, Nev Schulman and Adam Rippon to win the title of "Next Pro." Witney Carson will serve as co-host with Robert Irwin, and Derek Hough will guest judge.
Cast
Robert IrwinSelf - Host
Mark BallasSelf - Judge
Shirley BallasSelf - Judge- Selena HamiltonSelf - Contestant
AJ PritchardSelf - Contestant- Adele ZaikmanSelf - Contestant
- Allen GenkinSelf - Contestant
- Nina MaysterSelf - Contestant
- Erik LinderSelf - Contestant
- Tristen SandersSelf - Contestant
- Stephani SosaSelf - Contestant
- Natalie JolleySelf - Contestant







