How much do Dancing With The Stars pros make? They earn it with a seven-day-a-week job during filming, their earnings increase the further into the season they go. Learn about Dancing With The Stars pros earnings and dancing lessons at ten-dance.com. Ballroom dancing, celebrity partnerships, and mirrorball trophy are some keywords for the article.
1. What is Dancing With The Stars?
Dancing With the Stars is the American version of the British television series, Strictly Come Dancing, which started airing on the BBC in 2004. Since its premiere, the Dancing With the Stars franchise has expanded to over 74 countries, including India, Brazil, France, New Zealand, and many more. Dancing With The Stars pairs celebrities with professional ballroom dancers, and together they practice themed choreographed routines each week. The pairs then go on to perform their routines in front of a panel of judges, who each score their performances on a scale of one to 10. Viewers in the audience and at home are also given a chance to place their votes for their favorite dancers. The couple with the lowest cumulative score is eliminated, until one couple is finally declared the winner and takes home the Mirrorball Trophy.
2. How Much Do Dancing With the Stars Contestants Make?
Dancing With the Stars contestants are estimated to receive a starting salary of $125,000. This salary includes their rehearsal period, which takes place for 20 hours a week for several weeks before the start of the season, along with the first two weeks of their competition on the show. For stars who make it past the first two weeks of the competition, they can expect to see their salary increased biweekly. Celebs who make it to weeks three and four get an additional $10,000 per week, while those who make it to week five get a bonus of $15,000. Weeks six and seven bring an added $20,000 per week. Those who last until weeks eight and nine receive an extra $30,000 per week. Celebrities at this stage in the competition bring home an additional $50,000, plus the Mirror Ball trophy if they win the competition. Altogether, these weekly bonuses can add up to over $360,000 depending on the length of the season. However, according to one report by Variety, the most a contestant can make in the competition has been capped at $295,000 as of 2020.
How much do Dancing With the Stars contestants make?
3. What Do Dancing With the Stars Pros Make Per Episode?
While the salaries of stars, pros and judges have not been publicly disclosed, Us Weekly reported in 2022 that when pros first start out on the show, they earn $1,200 per episode. This increases the longer they stay with the series and those who returned frequently were making closer to $5,000 per episode. This puts their total salary for the season around $100,000.
How much do Dancing With the Stars pros make per episode?
Amy Purdy told The LA Times how intense their schedule is. “I know how hard everyone on the cast is working. This show is no joke. The other day someone asked me what I do on my off days. My off days??? There are no off days,” she said. “Everyone is dancing every day, building right up until Mondays/show days, when you arrive on the set at about 7 a.m. and you are there all day and all night. Then last night we had dance practice after the show until midnight. Then we all start our routines for next week today. It’s exhausting, but it’s also a total blast.”
4. What Factors Influence the Salaries of DWTS Pros?
Several factors influence the salaries of Dancing With The Stars professionals. According to a 2022 report by Us Weekly, here are some of those factors:
- Experience: Pros who have been on the show for multiple seasons typically earn more than newcomers.
- Popularity: Pros with a large fan base or a reputation for being entertaining may be able to negotiate higher salaries.
- Success: Pros who consistently make it far in the competition, or who have won the Mirrorball Trophy in the past, may be able to command higher salaries.
- Negotiation: Like any job, the ability to negotiate a favorable contract plays a significant role in determining a pro’s salary.
5. What is the Average Career Length for a DWTS Pro?
The average career length for a Dancing With The Stars pro can vary greatly depending on several factors. Some pros may only participate for a few seasons, while others have remained with the show for many years. For example, veterans like Derek Hough and Mark Ballas have enjoyed lengthy careers on DWTS, while others may have shorter stints due to personal reasons, other career opportunities, or the show’s changing dynamics.
Factors that can influence a pro’s career length include:
- Physical demands: The intense training and performance schedule can take a toll on the body, potentially leading to injuries or burnout.
- Personal life: Pros may choose to leave the show to focus on family, relationships, or other personal pursuits.
- Career opportunities: Some pros may leave DWTS to pursue other opportunities in dance, choreography, or entertainment.
- Show dynamics: Changes in the show’s format, cast, or creative direction can also impact a pro’s decision to stay or leave.
6. How Do DWTS Salaries Compare to Other Professional Dance Jobs?
Salaries for Dancing With The Stars pros can be quite lucrative compared to other professional dance jobs, but it’s important to consider the unique nature of the show and the opportunities it provides. Here’s a general comparison:
| Job | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| DWTS Pro | $1,200 to $5,000 per episode (depending on experience) |
| Professional Ballet Dancer | $40,000 to $70,000 per year |
| Broadway Dancer | $2,000 to $5,000 per week |
| Cruise Ship Dancer | $2,500 to $4,000 per month |
| Theme Park Dancer | $10 to $20 per hour |
- Professional Ballet Dancer: Dancers in ballet companies typically earn a salary, but it’s often lower than what a DWTS pro can make. However, they may have more job security and benefits. According to research from the American Guild of Musical Artists, in July 2023, the average yearly wage is around $65,000.
- Broadway Dancer: Broadway dancers can earn a good living, but the competition is fierce, and work may not be consistent.
- Cruise Ship Dancer: Cruise ship dancers typically earn a monthly salary, plus room and board. While the pay may not be as high as DWTS, it can be a good option for dancers who enjoy traveling.
- Theme Park Dancer: Theme park dancers usually earn an hourly wage and may not have benefits. This type of dance job is often more accessible to dancers with less experience.
7. What Are the Additional Benefits and Perks for DWTS Pros?
In addition to their per-episode salaries, Dancing With The Stars pros may also receive other benefits and perks, such as:
- Travel and accommodations: The show typically covers travel expenses and accommodations for the pros while they are in Los Angeles for filming.
- Wardrobe and styling: Pros have access to professional wardrobe and styling services for their performances.
- Publicity and exposure: DWTS provides a platform for pros to gain national publicity and exposure, which can lead to other opportunities in dance and entertainment.
- Partnerships and endorsements: Some pros may be able to secure partnerships and endorsements with brands, further increasing their income.
- Networking opportunities: DWTS allows pros to network with other professionals in the entertainment industry, which can be beneficial for their careers.
8. How Does The DWTS Schedule Impact the Pro Dancers’ Lifestyle?
The Dancing With The Stars schedule is notoriously demanding, and it can have a significant impact on the pro dancers’ lifestyle. Amy Purdy’s quote in The LA Times sums it up nicely: “There are no off days.” Here are some of the ways the schedule can affect their lives:
- Limited free time: Pros have very little free time during the season, as they are constantly rehearsing, performing, and traveling.
- Physical exhaustion: The intense training and performance schedule can lead to physical exhaustion and injuries.
- Dietary restrictions: Pros often have to adhere to strict diets to maintain their fitness levels.
- Social life limitations: The demanding schedule can make it difficult for pros to maintain a social life or spend time with family and friends.
- Stress and pressure: Pros are under constant pressure to perform well and maintain their popularity, which can lead to stress and anxiety.
9. What Are Some Common Misconceptions About the DWTS Pros’ Salaries?
There are several common misconceptions about the salaries of Dancing With The Stars pros. Here are a few:
- They’re all millionaires: While some of the more established pros may earn a comfortable living, not all of them are millionaires. The per-episode salary for newcomers is relatively modest, and it takes time and success to build a substantial income.
- They get paid even when they’re eliminated early: Pros only get paid for the episodes they participate in. If they are eliminated early in the season, their earnings will be significantly lower.
- They don’t have to pay for expenses: While the show covers some expenses like travel and accommodations, pros are responsible for their own living expenses, personal training, and other costs associated with their careers.
- Their salaries are public knowledge: The exact salaries of DWTS pros are not publicly disclosed, so any figures you see online are estimates or rumors.
10. What Are The Most Recent Updates in Dancing With The Stars?
Dancing With The Stars is constantly evolving. For example, in July 2023, Derek Hough was named as a judge to replace Len Goodman. To stay up-to-date, visit ten-dance.com for more information about events, workshops, and classes. Here are some other things to keep in mind:
- New cast members: The show often introduces new professional dancers and celebrity contestants each season, bringing fresh talent and personalities to the dance floor.
- Changes in judging panel: The judging panel may change from season to season, with new judges bringing their expertise and perspectives to the competition.
- Format updates: The show’s format may be tweaked or updated to keep things fresh and exciting for viewers.
- Technological advancements: DWTS often incorporates new technologies and innovations into its performances, such as augmented reality and virtual reality.
FAQ About Dancing With The Stars
1. How can I become a professional dancer on Dancing With The Stars?
Becoming a professional dancer on Dancing With The Stars requires a combination of exceptional dance skills, experience, and networking. While there’s no guaranteed path, here are some steps you can take:
- Develop a strong dance background: Focus on mastering various dance styles, especially ballroom and Latin dances.
- Gain professional experience: Perform in dance companies, competitions, and other professional settings to build your resume and reputation.
- Network with industry professionals: Attend dance events, workshops, and auditions to meet choreographers, agents, and other industry contacts.
- Create a demo reel: Showcase your best dance performances in a high-quality video to demonstrate your skills and versatility.
- Submit your application: Keep an eye out for casting calls or open auditions for Dancing With The Stars and submit your application with your demo reel.
2. What dance styles are commonly featured on Dancing With The Stars?
Dancing With The Stars features a wide variety of dance styles, including:
- Ballroom dances: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep
- Latin dances: Cha-Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, and Jive
- Other styles: Contemporary, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Argentine Tango
3. Are the contestants on Dancing With The Stars required to have prior dance experience?
No, the contestants on Dancing With The Stars are not required to have prior dance experience. In fact, many contestants have little to no dance background before joining the show. The premise of the show is to pair celebrities with professional dancers who can teach them how to dance and perform in various styles.
4. How are the professional dancers paired with the celebrity contestants?
The pairing of professional dancers with celebrity contestants on Dancing With The Stars is a complex process that takes into account several factors, including:
- Height: Producers try to pair dancers and celebrities who are of similar height to make the dances look more aesthetically pleasing.
- Personality: They also consider the personalities of the dancers and celebrities to ensure a good match.
- Dance experience: The celebrity’s dance experience (or lack thereof) is also taken into account when pairing them with a professional dancer.
5. What type of training do the contestants go through each week?
The contestants on Dancing With The Stars go through rigorous training each week to prepare for their performances. This training typically includes:
- Daily rehearsals: Contestants rehearse with their professional partners for several hours each day, learning choreography and perfecting their technique.
- Fitness training: They also engage in fitness training to build stamina, strength, and flexibility.
- Costume fittings: Contestants attend costume fittings to ensure their outfits fit properly and allow them to move freely during their dances.
6. How are the scores determined on Dancing With The Stars?
The scores on Dancing With The Stars are determined by a panel of judges who evaluate the contestants’ performances based on several criteria, including:
- Technique: The judges assess the contestants’ technical skills, such as footwork, posture, and timing.
- Performance: They also evaluate the contestants’ performance quality, including their charisma, energy, and connection with the audience.
- Choreography: The judges consider the creativity and difficulty of the choreography.
7. Can viewers vote for their favorite dancers?
Yes, viewers can vote for their favorite dancers on Dancing With The Stars. The voting process typically involves:
- Phone voting: Viewers can call a designated phone number for each contestant to cast their votes.
- Online voting: Viewers can also vote online through the show’s website or app.
8. What happens to the dancers who are eliminated from the show?
When dancers are eliminated from Dancing With The Stars, they:
- Leave the competition: They are no longer eligible to compete for the Mirrorball Trophy.
- Give a farewell speech: They typically give a short speech thanking their partners, the judges, and the fans.
- Return for the finale: They usually return for the season finale to perform a group dance with the other contestants.
9. What is the Mirrorball Trophy?
The Mirrorball Trophy is the grand prize awarded to the winners of Dancing With The Stars. It is a disco ball-shaped trophy covered in mirrored tiles.
10. Where can I find dance lessons inspired by Dancing With The Stars?
If you’re inspired by Dancing With The Stars and want to learn how to dance, there are several options available:
- Local dance studios: Many dance studios offer ballroom and Latin dance classes for all skill levels.
- Online dance courses: There are also numerous online dance courses that you can take from the comfort of your own home. For example, visit ten-dance.com for information.
- Workshops and events: Keep an eye out for dance workshops and events in your area that focus on specific dance styles featured on the show.
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