Dancing with the Stars officially returns on Monday, July 13, 2026, with the premiere of the franchise’s first-ever spin-off, Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro. The series airs on ABC and streams on Hulu, introducing a new generation of ballroom dancers competing for a spot as a professional on the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars.
After months of anticipation, ABC has officially revealed when fans can return to the ballroom. Rather than launching directly into Season 35, the network is expanding the franchise with an exciting new competition that searches for the next professional dancer.
Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro Release Date
ABC has confirmed that Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro premieres on Monday, July 13, 2026.
The new series will air on ABC, with episodes available to stream on Hulu after broadcast.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Premiere Date | Monday, July 13, 2026 |
| Network | ABC |
| Streaming | Hulu |
| Franchise | Dancing with the Stars |
What Is Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro?
Instead of celebrities learning ballroom dancing, The Next Pro shifts the spotlight to talented dancers hoping to earn a place in the professional cast of Dancing with the Stars.
Throughout the competition, contestants will perform ballroom and Latin routines while facing choreography challenges, technical tests, and live performances. Every dance brings them one step closer to becoming the newest professional in the franchise.
The winner won’t simply take home a trophy—they’ll join the cast of Dancing with the Stars as a professional dancer.
Robert Irwin Hosts the New Competition
ABC has selected Robert Irwin to host Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.
Known for his energetic personality and television experience, Irwin will guide viewers through the competition, introduce performances, interview contestants backstage, and announce the results each week.
Meet the Judges
The dancers will be judged by two of ballroom’s biggest names.
Mark Ballas
Mirrorball Trophy champion Mark Ballas returns to the franchise in a new role as judge. His years of competitive ballroom experience and award-winning choreography make him one of the most respected voices on the panel.
Shirley Ballas
Joining him is legendary ballroom champion Shirley Ballas, internationally recognized for her expertise in Latin dance and competitive ballroom judging.
Together, they will determine which dancer has what it takes to become the franchise’s next professional.
Who Is Competing?
The inaugural season features 12 aspiring professional dancers from a variety of dance backgrounds. Throughout the competition, they’ll perform weekly routines while demonstrating technique, artistry, versatility, and stage presence.
Only one contestant will earn the title of The Next Pro and secure a coveted position in the Dancing with the Stars professional lineup.
What Does Winning Mean?
Unlike traditional dance competitions, the prize is a real career opportunity.
The winner of Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro will officially become a professional dancer in the Dancing with the Stars franchise, joining the cast for the next season and partnering with a celebrity contestant.
For aspiring ballroom dancers, it’s one of the biggest opportunities on television.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Dancing with the Stars start?
The Dancing with the Stars franchise returns on Monday, July 13, 2026, with the premiere of Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro on ABC.
What is Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro?
It’s a new competition series where aspiring ballroom dancers compete for a chance to become a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars.
Who hosts Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro?
Robert Irwin hosts the inaugural season.
Who are the judges?
The judging panel features ballroom legends Mark Ballas and Shirley Ballas.
Where can I watch Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro?
The series airs on ABC and streams on Hulu after each episode.
Final Thoughts
The ballroom officially reopens on Monday, July 13, as Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro premieres on ABC. Featuring 12 talented dancers, host Robert Irwin, and judges Mark Ballas and Shirley Ballas, the new competition gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the search for the franchise’s next breakout professional. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it’s a fresh chapter in the Dancing with the Stars universe that begins this summer.