Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro - Season 1

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. Episode 5

Aired: 8/10/2026

6. Episode 6

Aired: 8/17/2026

7. Episode 7

Aired: 8/24/2026

8. Episode 8

Aired: 8/31/2026