DWTS Spin-Off Series to Find Next Pro Dancer Still Moving Forward

Fans feared the show was scrapped after the fan con announcement, but it's reportedly still on, according to two insiders.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Despite initial disappointment from fans when Dancing With The Stars announced its first-ever fan convention in Palm Springs, California, reports indicate that the show's planned spin-off series to find its next pro dancer is still moving forward. Entertainment reporter Kristyn Burtt and blogger Reality Steve have both confirmed that the new competition show is still in the works, with details emerging about the hosting, judges, and prize.

Why it matters

The DWTS spin-off series is highly anticipated by fans who have been hoping for a way for new pro dancers to break into the popular competition show. The announcement of the fan convention initially led some to believe the spin-off had been scrapped, so confirmation that it is still happening will be welcome news for viewers eager to see fresh talent join the DWTS lineup.

The details

According to reports, the DWTS spin-off series will begin filming in Australia later this month. The show will be hosted by Robert Irwin, and two of the judges will be Mark Ballas and his mother Shirley Ballas. The winner of the competition will earn a spot as a pro dancer on the next season of Dancing With The Stars.

  • The casting call for the spin-off series was posted by Lissette Pinon, casting manager for McNulty Casting, in October 2025.
  • The DWTS fan convention is scheduled to take place this summer in Palm Springs, California.

The players

Kristyn Burtt

An entertainment reporter and longtime DWTS insider who initially reported on the spin-off series plans.

Reality Steve

A blogger and podcaster best known for spoiling The Bachelor franchise, who confirmed the spin-off series is still happening.

Robert Irwin

The host of the DWTS spin-off series that will determine the next pro dancer.

Mark Ballas

A former DWTS pro dancer who will serve as a judge on the spin-off series.

Shirley Ballas

Mark Ballas' mother, who will also serve as a judge on the DWTS spin-off series.

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What’s next

The DWTS spin-off series is expected to begin filming in Australia later this month.

The takeaway

Despite initial disappointment from fans, the highly anticipated DWTS spin-off series to find the show's next pro dancer is still moving forward. The new competition will provide a platform for exceptional dancers to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on the main DWTS program, satisfying viewer demand for fresh talent on the long-running show.