As Dancing With the Stars gears up for its emotional Dedication Night, drama is brewing behind the scenes. Two of the show’s pro dancers, Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas, are reportedly facing warnings from ABC executives about their choreography skills—and their spots on the show could be in jeopardy for next season.

The beloved dance competition has long been known for introducing fresh talent to its roster of pros and troupe members, but casting decisions for Season 34 have already sparked backlash among fans. Now, it seems producers are keeping a close eye on Whitney and Mark, who are being urged to step up their game or face the chopping block ahead of Season 35.

The Warning: Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas Under Scrutiny

According to inside sources, ABC executives feel that Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas aren’t meeting expectations when it comes to choreography and teaching their celebrity partners.

A source told The US Sun: “Next season’s cast won’t be determined until next year, so it’s way too early for final speculation on that. But producers have active discussions throughout the season to prepare for the next year.”

The source added: “There are talks that Whitney and Mark would be most on the chopping block for next season if they don’t start stepping it up. Producers want to see better choreography, cleaner technique, and more progress with their celebrity partners.”

Whitney Leavitt: Struggling to Teach Technique

Whitney Leavitt, who joined the pro roster after competing on Dancing With the Stars Junior, has been flagged for her teaching methods. Producers reportedly believe she needs to focus more on helping her celebrity partners master technique.

The source explained: “Whitney’s partners don’t drastically improve throughout the season, and they often make mistakes during live performances. Producers want to see her push her partners harder and ensure they’re learning proper technique.”

Whitney’s track record on the show has been mixed. She made her debut in Season 32 with Harry Jowsey, who placed sixth, and reached the finals in Season 33 with Stephen Nedoroscik, finishing fourth. However, her performance this season with Scott Hoying has been underwhelming, raising concerns about her future on the show.

Mark Ballas: Falling Short on Choreography

Mark Ballas, a veteran of the ballroom and son of legendary dancers Shirley and Corky Ballas, is also under fire for his choreography. Despite his long history with the show, producers feel his routines lack the creativity and challenge expected from a pro of his caliber.

The source revealed: “Mark has been called out for not challenging his partners enough. His choreography has been criticized for being too safe and not showcasing his celebrity partners’ potential. Producers want him to step up and deliver routines that wow the audience.”

Mark’s reputation as a standout performer has taken a hit this season, as fans and producers alike have noticed a decline in his choreography’s innovation and flair.

A History of Casting Controversy

While Whitney and Mark are facing scrutiny, their paths to becoming pros highlight a larger trend in DWTS casting. Unlike many of their fellow pros, neither Whitney nor Mark started in the show’s troupe, a common stepping stone for aspiring professional dancers.

Other pros, such as Ezra Sosa, Daniella Karagach, and Brandon Armstrong, earned their spots after years of experience in the troupe. Even Jenna Johnson, Britt Stewart, and Emma Slater spent time in the troupe before being promoted.

Mark Ballas, on the other hand, joined the show before the troupe was established, while Whitney was cast after competing on Dancing With the Stars Junior. This has led to criticism that some pros are being fast-tracked to the main roster without the same level of preparation as their peers.

What’s Next for Whitney and Mark?

While the warnings don’t guarantee that Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas will be cut, the pressure is on for them to prove their worth. Producers are closely monitoring their performances and their ability to teach and choreograph compelling routines.

The source emphasized: “It’s not a done deal that they won’t return next season, but they need to show improvement. ABC wants to keep the show fresh and exciting, and that means holding everyone to high standards.”

With Season 34 still underway, fans will be watching closely to see if Whitney and Mark can rise to the challenge—or if this season will be their last.

DWTS Fans React

The news has sparked debate among Dancing With the Stars fans, with some defending Whitney and Mark and others agreeing that the show could benefit from fresh talent.

One fan wrote on Twitter: “Whitney and Mark deserve another chance—they’re great dancers! But I do think the choreography hasn’t been as exciting this season.”

Another commented: “DWTS has always been about pushing boundaries. If Whitney and Mark aren’t delivering, it’s fair for ABC to consider new pros who can bring fresh energy to the show.”

The Bottom Line

As Dancing With the Stars continues to evolve, the pressure is higher than ever for its pro dancers to deliver standout performances. For Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas, the stakes are clear: step up their choreography and teaching—or risk losing their spots on one of TV’s most beloved dance competitions.

Only time will tell if they can rise to the occasion and secure their future on DWTS. For now, all eyes are on the ballroom as fans eagerly await the next chapter in this unfolding drama.