TL;DR
- Robert Irwin hosts new ‘DWTS’ spinoff.
- Show aims to find next pro dancer.
- 12 dancers will compete in auditions.
- Premieres July 13, 2026 on ABC.
- Mark Ballas and Shirley Ballas as judges.
Hold onto your sequins, folks! Robert Irwin, the charming conservationist and zookeeper, is stepping into the spotlight once again, but this time it’s not just about saving animals. He’s taking his talent to the dance floor as the host of the upcoming spinoff series, ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.’ This exciting new show is set to find the next big pro dancer for the beloved reality competition, ‘Dancing with the Stars.’
At Hulu’s second annual Get Real event in Beverly Hills, California, Irwin was officially announced as the face of this much-anticipated series. After winning season 34 of ‘DWTS’ alongside his pro partner, Witney Carson, Irwin has proven he’s got the moves—and now he’s ready to help others shine. The duo became fan favorites, lighting up the dance floor week after week, and now Robert’s ready to pass on that glittery baton.
The new series will feature a dozen up-and-coming dancers who will move into a house together, competing in a grueling audition process for a coveted spot as a pro dancer on the next season of ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ Talk about a reality showdown! Disney Entertainment Television Publicity has confirmed that the competition will be fierce.
Joining Irwin in this dance extravaganza will be none other than the three-time Mirrorball champion, Mark Ballas, and his mother, Shirley Ballas, who’s affectionately known as ‘The Queen of Latin.’ They’ll be judging the contestants and ensuring the competition is as fierce as the sequined outfits they’ll be wearing. Plus, returning pros will also pop in as rotating mentors and guest judges. Can you say, ‘drama’?
BBC is on board to produce the show, with Conrad Green serving as the showrunner and executive producer. This dynamic team is sure to bring the heat to the dance floor.
But wait, there’s more! The reveal of ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’ wasn’t the only highlight of the event. Fans were treated to exclusive first-looks and surprise moments from some of Hulu’s most beloved shows. It’s a reality TV lover’s dream!
Mark your calendars, because ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’ is set to premiere on July 13, 2026, at 8 p.m. EDT/PDT on ABC, with episodes available the next day on Hulu. The Walt Disney Co., which owns ABC News, Disney+, and Hulu, is pulling out all the stops for this one.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original ‘Dancing with the Stars’ or just love a good competition, this spinoff promises to bring the glitz, the glam, and the drama. Get ready to see who will take home the next Mirrorball trophy!