How Much Do Celebrities Really Earn on Dancing With the Stars?

Celebrities on ABC’s hit show Dancing With the Stars receive significant paychecks. Their compensation increases the longer they stay in the competition. This payment structure rewards stars for their commitment and performance.

According to a 2019 report from Variety, the base pay is substantial. Contestants reportedly earn a fixed sum for the initial phase of the competition. This covers the rehearsal period and the first two weeks of broadcasts.

Breaking Down the DWTS Payment Tiers

Variety’s sources indicated stars make $125,000 for the rehearsal period and the first two episodes. If they progress further, their weekly pay increases. At that time, the maximum potential earnings were estimated to be around $295,000 for a full season run.

However, not all contestants confirm these figures. Season 27 winner Bobby Bones claimed his total earnings were higher. He detailed a different payment model on Jason Tartick’s Trading Secrets podcast.

Contestant Claims and Official Silence

Bobby Bones described a tiered system starting with no pay for the first episode. He said the second episode paid $10,000. The amounts increased until it reached about $50,000 per episode for the final stages.

Combined with his base salary, Bones stated he made close to $400,000. This amount is significantly higher than the maximum previously reported by Variety. ABC has not publicly confirmed or denied any of these specific payment figures.

The exact pay structure for Dancing With the Stars remains a closely guarded secret. Yet, it is clear that celebrity participants are compensated handsomely for their efforts. This lucrative Dancing With the Stars salary is a major draw for big-name talent.

Info at your fingertips

What is the base pay for a DWTS celebrity?

Multiple reports cite a base salary of around $125,000. This covers the rehearsal period and the first two weeks of live shows. The amount is guaranteed regardless of early elimination.

How much can a winner make?

While reports suggest a max of $295,000, winner Bobby Bones claimed he earned nearly $400,000. His earnings combined a base salary with increasing weekly appearance fees. This indicates total pay can vary.

Do contestants get paid for the first episode?

Payment structures may differ. Bobby Bones stated he received no fee for the first episode. Other reports bundle the first two weeks into the initial guaranteed payment.

Do the professional dancers get paid the same?

No. The professional dancers are salaried employees of the show. Their pay structure is separate from the celebrity contestants and is not typically disclosed.

Why are there different reported salary figures?

ABC does not publicly disclose contract details. All figures come from anonymous sources or contestant claims. Negotiations may also lead to different deals for different stars.