The ballroom is getting bigger.
“Dancing With the Stars” is officially expanding its universe with a brand-new spinoff series titled “Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro,” and season 34 champion Robert Irwin may be stepping into a major new role.
According to Variety, the upcoming competition series will follow a group of aspiring professional dancers who will live together in a house while competing in an intense audition-style process. The ultimate winner will earn a coveted spot as a pro dancer on the next season of “Dancing With the Stars.” The show is expected to air this summer on ABC and Hulu.
And yes, there’s already a familiar name attached.
Robert Irwin in Talks to Host
Fresh off his Mirrorball Trophy win alongside pro partner Witney Carson, Irwin is reportedly in talks to host the spinoff. While ABC has not officially confirmed the casting, the possibility marks a major next step for the 22-year-old wildlife conservationist.
Irwin is no stranger to the franchise. His sister, Bindi Irwin, previously won season 21 of “DWTS” with Derek Hough in 2015, making the Irwins one of the show’s most successful families.
Beyond hosting buzz, Irwin has also been at the center of reality TV rumors, including speculation that he could be the next lead on “The Bachelor.” In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, he responded to the idea with, “Never say never,” adding, “Watch this space. Who knows? It’s a strange world.” Still, he emphasized that his primary focus remains his work as a zookeeper and animal conservationist.
For now, it appears his next possible move could keep him firmly planted in the ballroom.
Inside ‘The Next Pro’
ABCAs for the format, “The Next Pro” will spotlight up-and-coming professional dancers battling it out for a chance to join the flagship series. According to TV Insider, contestants will compete in a high-pressure audition process while living together, with further details about the cast and structure expected to be announced later.
The judging panel is also shaping up to feature heavy hitters. Three-time “DWTS” champion Mark Ballas is being eyed as a judge alongside his mother, Shirley Ballas, who serves as head judge on the U.K.’s “Strictly Come Dancing.” A rotating mentor or current pro is also expected to join the panel each week.
Mark joined “DWTS” in 2007 and has competed in 21 seasons, making him one of the show’s most seasoned pros. Shirley, widely known as “The Queen of Latin,” brings decades of ballroom expertise and competition experience.
With BBC Studios producing the series, “Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro” signals a new era for the franchise as it continues to evolve after more than 20 years on air.
As Irwin recently put it, “Watch this space. Who knows? It’s a strange world.”
