# 'Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro' Launches Competition for Season 35 Roster
ABC's "Dancing With the Stars" franchise expands with a new spinoff competition series that puts professional dancers in the spotlight. "Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro" tasks a fresh roster of choreographers and performers with auditioning for guaranteed spots on the main show's Season 35 lineup.
The competition format flips the script on the flagship series. Rather than celebrities paired with established pros, this spinoff zeros in on developing the next generation of professional talent that will eventually guide celebrity contestants through the ballroom.
The Hollywood Reporter's breakdown confirms that established judges and mentors from the main competition will oversee the trials. These veteran pros bring credibility and institutional knowledge to the selection process, evaluating technical precision, performance charisma, and teaching ability. The judges assess dancers across multiple disciplines within ballroom and Latin categories.
The spinoff taps into ABC's broader strategy of maximizing the "Dancing With the Stars" IP across different angles. After the main show's migration to Disney+ for Season 33 and its return to ABC for Season 34, the network continues leveraging audience loyalty and the show's proven ratings appeal. A dedicated pro-pipeline series addresses longtime fan interest in how dancers develop and earn their positions.
The format also reflects industry trends around competition shows that highlight professional craftsmanship. Similar to programs like "Making It" or "Project Runway," audiences respond to narratives centered on skill advancement and mentor relationships rather than pure celebrity appeal. The spinoff positions itself as a behind-the-scenes peek at the competitive ecosystem supporting prime-time entertainment.
For aspiring ballroom professionals, the series offers tangible career stakes. Winners secure professional dance roles on Season 35, providing both visibility and steady employment within the franchise ecosystem. The competition validates talent while building narrative continuity between