It’s widely known that being a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) is a demanding job, often requiring seven days a week of dedication during filming. So, how much do Dancing with the Stars pros make per episode? The answer isn’t always straightforward, but it’s safe to say their earnings are well-deserved. Their compensation typically increases the further they advance into the season, creating a strong incentive to perform at their peak.
DWTS is the American adaptation of the popular British television series, Strictly Come Dancing, which first aired on the BBC in 2004. Since its inception, the Dancing With the Stars franchise has expanded to over 74 countries, encompassing regions like India, Brazil, France, and New Zealand.
The show’s premise is simple: Celebrities are paired with professional ballroom dancers, and together they rehearse themed and choreographed routines each week. They perform these routines in front of a panel of judges, who evaluate their performances on a scale of one to 10. Viewers, both in the studio audience and at home, also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite couples.
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The judges’ scores and viewer votes are combined, and the couple with the lowest cumulative score is eliminated each week. This process continues until the final episode, where one couple is declared the winner and awarded the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Now that we understand the dynamics of Dancing With the Stars, let’s explore how much those talented Dancing With the Stars pros make per episode.
Unveiling Contestant Salaries on Dancing With the Stars
Contestants on Dancing With the Stars making their mark with captivating performances
Dancing With the Stars contestants receive an estimated starting salary of $125,000, according to Variety. This figure encompasses their rehearsal period, which involves approximately 20 hours per week for several weeks leading up to the season premiere, as well as their participation in the first two weeks of the competition. However, their earning potential doesn’t end there.
Stars who progress beyond the initial two weeks of the competition can anticipate a bi-weekly salary increase. Celebrities who reach weeks three and four receive an additional $10,000 per week, while those who make it to week five are awarded a bonus of $15,000. Weeks six and seven bring an added $20,000 per week. Contestants who endure until weeks eight and nine receive an extra $30,000 per week.
For those fortunate enough to reach the semi-finals and the finale, the financial rewards become even more substantial. According to various reports, celebrities at this advanced stage of the competition earn an additional $50,000, along with the coveted Mirror Ball trophy if they ultimately win. Cumulatively, these weekly bonuses can amount to over $360,000, depending on the season’s duration. Nevertheless, a 2020 report by Variety indicated that the maximum amount a contestant can earn in the competition is capped at $295,000.
How Much Do Dancing With the Stars Pros Make Per Episode?
Dancing With the Stars pro dancers in action, demonstrating their skills and passion
So, how much do Dancing With the Stars pros make per episode? While the exact salaries of stars, professional dancers, and judges remain confidential, Us Weekly reported in 2022 that newcomers to the show typically earn $1,200 per episode. This figure increases with tenure, and seasoned pros who return frequently can earn closer to $5,000 per episode. This can translate to a total salary of around $100,000 for the entire season.
In 2014, DWTS contestant Amy Purdy shared insights with The LA Times about the demanding schedule. “I know how hard everyone on the cast is working. This show is no joke. The other day someone asked me what I do on my off days. My off days??? There are no off days,” she said.
“Everyone is dancing every day, building right up until Mondays/show days, when you arrive on the set at about 7 a.m. and you are there all day and all night. Then last night we had dance practice after the show until midnight. Then we all start our routines for next week today. It’s exhausting, but it’s also a total blast.”
In conclusion, while the exact figures may vary, it’s evident that both contestants and professional dancers on Dancing With the Stars can earn significant sums for their dedication and talent. The journey is physically and mentally demanding, but the potential rewards, both financial and in terms of exposure, make it a worthwhile endeavor for many.
