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The Future of Ballroom TV: How ‘Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro’ Could Reshape Reality Competition
The reality TV landscape is constantly evolving, but few franchises have demonstrated the staying power of Dancing with the Stars. Now, ABC is poised to potentially disrupt its own formula – and the broader competition genre – with a latest spinoff, “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro.” This isn’t just another celebrity-driven spectacle; it’s a high-stakes audition for professional dancers, and it could signal a shift towards prioritizing skill and artistry over star power in the world of televised dance.
A New Breed of Dance Competition
“Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro,” slated to air this summer on ABC and Hulu, will feature professional dancers vying for a coveted position as a pro on Season 35. The premise – dancers living under one roof although competing – immediately injects a layer of drama and intensity not typically seen in the flagship reveal. This format taps into the popular “competition-within-a-competition” trope, reminiscent of shows like “Top Chef” or “The Voice,” but uniquely focused on the demanding world of professional ballroom dance.
Robert Irwin and the Ballas Dynasty: A Winning Combination?
The casting choices are already generating buzz. Wildlife advocate and recent “Dancing with the Stars” champion Robert Irwin is reportedly in talks to host the spinoff, leveraging his newfound popularity and charismatic presence. Even more intriguing is the judging panel, which includes DWTS pro Mark Ballas and his mother, Shirley Ballas, a renowned Latin dance expert and judge on the British “Strictly Come Dancing” since 2017. The Ballas family’s deep roots in the dance world lend immediate credibility and expertise to the new series. A rotating panel of judges and mentors, likely comprised of other DWTS professionals and alumni, will further enrich the competitive landscape.
Beyond Celebrity: A Focus on Pure Dance Talent
For years, “Dancing with the Stars” has captivated audiences with its blend of celebrity charisma and ballroom elegance. While the show’s appeal lies in watching personalities learn to dance, the spinoff promises something different: a showcase of exceptional, already-trained dancers. This shift could attract a new audience – those who appreciate the technical artistry of ballroom dance and are less interested in the celebrity narrative. As Maks Chmerkovskiy’s recent critique of Jan Ravnik suggests, discerning dance fans are increasingly attuned to the nuances of professional technique, and this spinoff caters directly to that audience.
The Potential Impact on the Flagship Show
The emergence of “The Next Pro” raises questions about the future of the main “Dancing with the Stars” series. Will the winner of the spinoff automatically have an advantage in Season 35? Will the show begin to prioritize dancers with more extensive training? It’s possible that the spinoff will serve as a feeder system, elevating the overall skill level of the professional dancers and, the quality of the performances on the flagship show. This could lead to more complex choreography, greater technical precision, and a renewed focus on the artistry of ballroom dance.
Streaming Wars and the Future of Dance TV
The strategic placement of “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” on both ABC and Hulu reflects the evolving media landscape. Viewers can catch the show live on ABC or stream it on demand via Hulu, offering flexibility and catering to different viewing habits. This dual-platform approach is becoming increasingly common as networks navigate the streaming wars and seek to maximize their reach. The availability on Hulu also highlights Disney’s investment in dance content, potentially paving the way for further expansions of the “Dancing with the Stars” universe.
The arrival of “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” isn’t just about adding another show to the schedule; it’s about reimagining the possibilities of dance competition television. By prioritizing skill, artistry, and the stories of dedicated professional dancers, ABC could be setting a new standard for the genre. What are your predictions for the new series? Share your thoughts in the comments below!