How Much Do the Celebrities Get Paid to Be on Dancing With the Stars?

Stars on Dancing With the Stars receive significant paychecks for their efforts. The popular ABC show compensates its celebrity contestants with a base salary. This pay increases the longer they remain in the competition.

According to a 2019 report from Variety, the standard payment structure is well-established. Contestants earn a large sum just for participating in the initial phase. This covers the rehearsal period and the first two weeks of broadcasts.

Breaking Down the DWTS Payment Tiers

The initial fee reported by Variety is $125,000. This payment is guaranteed for all stars who join the cast. It compensates them for the intense training before the season even begins.

If a contestant progresses past the first two live shows, their earnings climb. They receive additional money for each subsequent week they survive. Sources indicated that a star could max out their earnings at around $295,000 for a full season run.

Contestants Have Reported Even Higher Earnings

Some winners have claimed to earn more than the reported maximum. Radio personality Bobby Bones, who won season 27, discussed his pay publicly. He appeared on Jason Tartick’s Trading Secrets podcast to share details.

Bones described a different payment model. He said he earned nothing for the first episode. Then, he claimed payments escalated from $10,000 to $20,000 per episode.

Combined with his base salary, Bones stated his total earnings were substantial. He revealed he made close to $400,000 from his winning season. ABC does not publicly comment on or confirm these financial figures.

The financial incentive for joining Dancing With the Stars is clearly significant. The Dancing With the Stars salary provides a major boost for celebrities. This pay structure ensures big names continue to join the cast season after season.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the base pay for DWTS celebrities?

Reports indicate the base salary is $125,000. This covers the rehearsal period and the first two weeks of the competition. It is a guaranteed payment for all participants.

Can stars earn more than the base salary?

Yes, their pay increases the longer they stay on the show. They receive additional payments for each episode after the first two weeks. This can significantly boost their total earnings.

What was Bobby Bones’ claimed earnings?

Bobby Bones said he earned nearly $400,000 for his season. This was higher than the previously reported maximum of $295,000. He detailed his per-episode payments on a podcast.

How does the payment structure work?

One model involves a large initial guarantee. Another model, described by a contestant, involves escalating per-episode fees. Both models result in higher pay for longer tenures.

Why is the pay structure not officially confirmed?

ABC and the show’s producers keep salary details private. This information typically comes from leaks and contestant interviews. The network does not publicly disclose financial agreements.