dancing with the Stars may have a long history of dazzling viewers on air, but behind the scenes, the show is reportedly struggling.

The ABC series has trouble ahead, according to insiders who have claimed a “huge complaint” is brewing with arguments over issues such as huge wage reductions and unequal salaries.

Multiple insiders have claimed that a “massive pay cut” has caused rivalry with the usually tight-knit cast, who are not “holding back” on how they feel this season.

This season has seen an increased viewership thanks to a star-studded cast including Jordan Chiles, Danielle Fishel, Andy Richter, Robert Irwin, Elaine Hendrix, Alix Earle, Whitney Leavitt, Jen Affleck, Scott Hoying, and Dylan Efron.

Fans have seen the show return to ABC after it embarked on a streaming-only stint on Disney+, which saw viewership decline and the cast of professional dancers take a “massive pay cut.”

DWTS

The current season has seen an increase in viewership (Image: Getty)

An insider told The Daily Mail that “the money is better” now the show returned to network TV, but “a competition between the dance pros about who earns what,” is ongoing.

The publication claims that each professional gets a $10,000 bonus at the start of the season, which covers photoshoot costs and promotional expenses.

They are then paid between $2,500 and $5,000 per episode for as long as they remain in the competition and based on their popularity.

Those who make it to the finale receive a bonus, and if they actually win, they receive a further bonus.

The insider revealed, “On a winning season, they can make a decent amount, between $200,000 and $300,000.”

They added, “The pros are barely getting by with the network pay, and they put in a lot of hours – even more than what’s requested.

 

JENNIFER AFFLECK, JAN RAVNIK

Dancing With The Stars has faced rumors of friction behind the scenes (Image: Getty)

“You can’t tell from watching, but it’s something they all stress about. Even though they love their jobs, they’re not making as much as they could get from other projects.”

Meanwhile, celebrities taking part in the show get a base salary of at least $125,000, leaving a “big pay difference between pros and celebrities.”

When Jenna Johnson was paired with Corey Feldman, the actor was reportedly not committed to training and missed five days of rehearsals in the weeks leading up to the premiere.

They ultimately became the first to be kicked off the show, which meant Jenna had no chance of earning a decent salary for the season.

The insider said, “It sucks when you’re teamed up with someone like Corey because it could be the difference between making $20,000 and $200,000.”