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Mark Ballas on Judging Next Pro, Season 35
The Hollywood Reporter • • general
Key Points:
- Mark Ballas, a longtime Dancing With the Stars pro dancer and three-time Mirrorball Trophy winner, has joined the judging panel of the new spinoff The Next Pro, which seeks the next professional dancer for season 35.
- Ballas emphasizes his role as a supportive mentor rather than a gatekeeper, drawing on his extensive experience from 21 seasons and recent active participation to provide constructive feedback to contestants.
- The Next Pro was filmed in early 2026 amid Ballas’ busy schedule, including work on The Traitors, Dancing With the Stars season 34, and a Broadway run of Chicago.
- The winner of The Next Pro will join the Dancing With the Stars cast this fall, with Ballas advising them to prioritize adaptability and serving their celebrity partners.
- Despite his judging role, Ballas remains open to returning as a pro dancer on season 35, leaving casting decisions to the show's director.
