Dancing With the Stars Finale Shake-Up: Three-Round Final Introduces Instant Dances

The Dancing With the Stars season 34 finale is set for a dramatic format change. Co-host Alfonso Ribeiro announced the twist during the semi-finals on November 18. The finale will feature three rounds of competition for the first time in the show’s history.

This new structure includes a high-pressure “Instant Dances” round. Celebrities must learn and perform a routine to a surprise song live. The demanding finale aims to crown the most deserving champion.

Contestant Pay Structure Revealed for DWTS Competitors

The financial details for celebrities on the show have been a topic of interest. According to a 2019 report from Variety, stars make a $125,000 base pay for the initial rehearsal period and first two episodes. Their earnings increase weekly if they progress further in the competition.

Former winner Bobby Bones provided additional insight on Jason Tartick’s Trading Secrets podcast. He suggested contestants can eventually earn up to $50,000 per episode. Bones claimed his total earnings for winning season 27 were close to $400,000.

Professional Dancers’ Salaries and Finale Incentives

The professional dancers on the show also operate on a tiered payment system. Pro dancer Jenna Johnson discussed contracts on The Morning After podcast. She confirmed dancers are guaranteed payment for a set number of weeks, with longer tenures meaning higher pay.

Johnson clarified that winning the Mirrorball Trophy does not come with a massive cash bonus. However, pairs who reach the finale do receive a separate bonus payment on top of their season earnings. The trophy itself remains the primary symbolic prize for victory.

The new Dancing With the Stars finale format promises unprecedented drama. This change will test the finalists’ versatility and composure under extreme pressure. The ultimate winner will truly have earned the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new finale format for Dancing With the Stars?

The season 34 finale will have three competition rounds. This includes a new “Instant Dances” challenge where couples perform to a surprise song. The traditional freestyle round will also be a critical component.

How much do celebrities get paid to be on the show?

Celebrities receive a base salary for the first few weeks. Multiple sources, including *Variety*, confirm payments increase each week a star remains in the competition. Total potential earnings can reportedly reach several hundred thousand dollars.

Do the professional dancers get a bonus for winning?

Professionals do not get a direct cash prize for winning the competition. However, they do receive a separate bonus payment for simply making it to the finale. Their overall season salary is also higher the longer they compete.

How are the celebrity and pro pairings decided?

Pairings are decided by producers based on several key factors. These include height, physical build, and perceived personality compatibility. The pros typically have no say in the selection process.

How often do the couples practice for the show?

Couples rehearse for several hours every single day. The schedule is intense, with rehearsals typically blocked in four-hour sessions. This leaves little time for other commitments during the season.

Who designs and makes the costumes each week?

A dedicated costume department creates all outfits from scratch. The process is extremely fast, with teams having only a few days to design and construct each look. Costumes are generally custom-made and not reused for competition.