Dancing With the Stars Salaries Revealed: How Much Contestants and Pros Really Earn

New details have emerged about the pay structure for celebrities and professional dancers on the hit show Dancing With the Stars. The financial arrangements have long been a topic of speculation for fans of the ABC competition. Recent reports from insiders provide a clearer picture of the earnings potential.

This information comes from interviews with former contestants and professional dancers. It offers a rare glimpse into the business side of the popular television program.

Breaking Down the Paycheck for Celebrities

According to a 2019 report from Variety, celebrities receive a base pay of $125,000. This fee covers the initial rehearsal period and the first two weeks of competition. If a star progresses further, their weekly earnings increase significantly.

Radio personality Bobby Bones, who won season 27, claimed his earnings were higher. He stated on a podcast that payments escalate with each episode survived. Bones estimated his total earnings from the show were close to $400,000.

The network has not publicly confirmed any specific salary figures. Payment structures can vary from season to season and between contestants.

The Professional Dancers’ Compensation and Show Secrets

Professional dancers also operate on a tiered payment system. Pro dancer Jenna Johnson explained on a podcast that contracts guarantee payment for a certain number of weeks. Dancers receive a bonus for making it to the finale, but no extra cash for winning the Mirrorball Trophy.

The pairing process for celebrities and pros is tightly controlled by producers. Former pro Lindsay Arnold stated that dancers get “no say” in their partner selection. Matches are primarily based on height, build, and perceived personality compatibility.

Rehearsals are an intense commitment, often spanning four-hour blocks each day. The work continues outside the studio with costume fittings and choreography planning. The entire process is a full-time endeavor during the competition.

The financial revelation about Dancing With the Stars salaries highlights the significant investment in the show’s talent. While the glamour is visible on screen, the compensation packages are built on a structured, performance-based model that rewards longevity in the competition.

Info at your fingertips

What is the base pay for a Dancing With the Stars celebrity?

Reports indicate a base salary of $125,000 for the rehearsal period and first two episodes. Earnings increase each week a contestant remains in the competition.

Do professional dancers get a bonus for winning?

No. Pros receive a bonus for making the finale, but winning the season does not come with an additional monetary prize. They receive the coveted Mirrorball Trophy instead.

How are celebrity and pro pairings decided?

Producers make the decisions based on height, build, and personality. The professional dancers are not consulted and often meet their partners for the first time on camera.

How many hours a day do they practice?

Rehearsals are rigorous, typically consisting of four-hour blocks each day. The schedule is demanding, with very few days off during the season.

Are the costumes made new each week?

Yes. The costume department works under extreme time pressure to create new, custom outfits for every performance. Reusing competition costumes is rare.