Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro
12 up-and-coming dancers move into one house and compete in a grueling audition process for a coveted pro dancer slot on Dancing with the Stars Season 35.
- 2026-2026
- 1 season
- ABC
- Game Show, Reality
- TV-PG
12 up-and-coming dancers move into one house and compete in a grueling audition process for a coveted pro dancer slot on Dancing with the Stars Season 35.
Season 1 Episode Guide
8 Episodes 2026
Episode 1
The Journey Begins: Technique with Derek Hough
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 43 mins
Twelve audition for a pro spot on "Dancing With the Stars"; the judges test jive and samba techniques, with the weakest pair eliminated.
Episode 2
Stories Without Words: Storytelling with Brandon Armstrong
Mon, Jul 20, 2026 43 mins
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.
Episode 3
You're Only as Strong as Your Weakest Link: Group Work with Britt Stewart
Mon, Jul 27, 2026 43 mins
The 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.
Episode 4
Bring on the Intensity: Chemistry with Jenna Johnson
Mon, Aug 3, 2026 43 mins
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.
Episode 5
Wow Moments with Daniella Karagach
Mon, Aug 10, 2026 43 mins
The dancers must create unforgettable "wow" moments by incorporating one of Daniella Karagach's signature moves into a viral-worthy routine; the dancers visit the Australia Zoo for inspiration from the power and agility of animals.
Episode 6
But Can You Teach? Coaching Superfans with Witney Carson
Mon, Aug 17, 2026 43 mins
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.
Episode 7
Paired with the Pros: Semi-Finals with Kym Johnson
Mon, Aug 24, 2026 44 mins
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.
Episode 8
The Final Step: Finale with Derek Hough and Witney Carson
Mon, Aug 31, 2026 44 mins
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.