Just months after winning over audiences on Dancing with the Stars, Robert Irwin is stepping into an exciting new role.
The fan favorite has officially been named host of the brand-new spin-off series, Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, and the newly released trailer is already generating major excitement among viewers eager to see the future of the ballroom unfold.
As Dancing with the Stars continues enjoying some of the strongest popularity in its history, the professional dancers have become stars in their own right. Now, for the first time, fans will get an inside look at how the next generation of DWTS pros is discovered.
The new competition series will feature 12 talented up-and-coming dancers living together while competing through an intense audition process. Their goal is simple but incredibly difficult: earn a coveted professional dancer spot on Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars.
The trailer showcases both the excitement and pressure awaiting the contestants. Viewers see dancers pushing themselves to the limit, celebrating breakthroughs, and dealing with emotional setbacks as they chase what could be a life-changing opportunity.
Leading the judging panel is former DWTS champion and fan-favorite pro Mark Ballas alongside his mother, Shirley Ballas, widely known throughout the dance world as “The Queen of Latin.”
Mark has spoken openly about how much he values his mother’s expertise, explaining that throughout his own Dancing with the Stars career, she was often the first person he called whenever he wanted honest feedback about a performance. Now the two will work together to evaluate the next generation of ballroom talent.
The series will also feature a rotating lineup of guest judges and mentors, including longtime DWTS star Derek Hough and professional dancer Britt Stewart. Additional experts from the ballroom world are expected to appear throughout the season.
Meanwhile, Robert Irwin serves as the face of the competition, bringing the same enthusiasm and energy that made him a breakout favorite among Dancing with the Stars fans. In the trailer, he encourages contestants as they prepare for what may be the most important audition of their lives.
The timing could not be better for DWTS fans.
Season 35 is already generating attention after announcing several celebrity contestants, including Ciara Miller, Maura Higgins, and Jackson Olson. Now viewers will also get the chance to watch the professionals of the future compete for their opportunity to join the ballroom.
Fans online have responded enthusiastically to the trailer, particularly to Robert’s involvement. Many viewers who supported him during his own DWTS journey say they are excited to see him continue as part of the franchise while helping new dancers pursue their dreams.
As anticipation continues building, one thing is clear: this is not just another dance competition.
It is a chance for aspiring performers to earn a place on one of television’s most beloved shows.
And with Robert Irwin leading the way, fans are ready to watch every step of the journey when Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro premieres on July 13.
