Robert Irwin to host new spinoff series 'Dancing with the Stars
A new spinoff searching for the next "Dancing with the Stars" pro is coming.
abcnews.comRobert Irwin is set to host the DWTS spinoff titled Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro, with ABC slated to debut the series in July 2026. The show will search for the next pro dancer to join the DWTS roster, and Irwin will anchor the program as host, reportedly alongside returning judges Mark Ballas and Shirley Ballas. Multiple outlets confirmed the development in early 2026, indicating a summer air date on ABC and Hulu. [ABC News][3]
Key points
- Format: Spinoff competition to identify a new DWTS pro for the upcoming season.
- Host: Robert Irwin, winner of DWTS season 34, transitioning to a hosting role for the new series.
- Judges: Expected to include Mark Ballas and Shirley Ballas, maintaining the DWTS brand continuity.
- Timing and platform: Premieres July 13, 2026, on ABC with potential Hulu simulcast, as reported by multiple outlets.[4][6][3]
Context and corroboration
- Reports from ABC News, Good Morning America, and E! News in early 2026 consistently described Irwin as the host in development for DWTS: The Next Pro. These outlets emphasized the summer launch and the goal of provisioning a pro dancer for DWTS season 35.[5][9][3][4]
- Coverage from Entertainment-focused sites and major entertainment outlets highlighted the spinoff’s concept of an audition-style competition leading to a DWTS pro spot, aligning with the broader DWTS strategy to expand the franchise.[6][7]
If you’d like, I can pull the latest official press release or a brief timeline of confirmed episodes and judging panel as soon as you specify how detailed you want the recap.