Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro - Season 1

First aired: 7/13/2026 8 episodes

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Episodes

1. The Journey Begins: Technique with Derek Hough

Aired: 7/13/2026

Host Robert Irwin challenges 12 exceptional dancers to the ultimate audition for a pro spot on "Dancing with the Stars." Judges Shirley Ballas, Mark Ballas and Derek Hough test jive and samba techniques, with the weakest pair eliminated.

2. Stories Without Words: Storytelling with Brandon Armstrong

Aired: 7/20/2026

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.

3. You're Only as Strong as Your Weakest Link: Group Work with Britt Stewart

Aired: 7/27/2026

The remaining 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.

4. Bring on the Intensity: Chemistry with Jenna Johnson

Aired: 8/3/2026

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.

5. Wow Moments with Daniella Karagach

Aired: 8/10/2026

The dancers must create unforgettable "wow" moments by incorporating one of Daniella Karagach's signature moves into a viral-worthy routine. Then, they visit the Australia Zoo for inspiration from the power and agility of animals in nature.

6. But Can You Teach? Coaching Superfans with Witney Carson

Aired: 8/17/2026

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.

7. Paired with the Pros: Semi-Finals with Kym Johnson

Aired: 8/24/2026

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.

8. The Final Step: Finale with Derek Hough and Witney Carson

Aired: 8/31/2026

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.