‘DWTS’ Fans STUNNED As Celebrity SALARIES ARE REVEALED
Some DWTS contestants see sizable paychecks even if they do not win the show (Image: Getty)
Celebrities joining the ABC competition are guaranteed $125,000, according to a source familiar with the show’s compensation structure.
That base payment covers the DWTS rehearsal period before the season begins and the first two weeks of competition.
Because contestants are not eliminated during the opening week, every celebrity is expected to receive at least the six-figure starting amount, even if they become the first person sent home. The news follows DWTS casting confirmation revealing a new alleged same-sex partnership.
The money begins increasing for stars who remain in the competition. Contestants who advance to Weeks 3 and 4 can earn an additional $10,000 per week, the source said. Reaching Week 5 reportedly brings another $15,000, while surviving Weeks 6 and 7 adds $20,000 per week.
The bonuses become larger as the field narrows. Celebrities who make it to Weeks 8 and 9 can reportedly earn an additional $30,000 per week they remain on the show.
Contestants who advance into Weeks 3 and 4 can earn an additional $10,000 for each week (Image: Getty)
Those who reach the semifinals and the finale receive the largest individual weekly payments, with an additional $50,000 for each stage.
Despite the emphasis placed on winning the competition, there is reportedly no separate cash prize for finishing in first place. The Mirrorball champion receives the same finale payment as the other celebrities who reach the final episode.
That means a winner does not necessarily earn more from the show than the contestants finishing directly behind them.
Under the reported payment structure, a celebrity who survives through the finale can collect roughly $360,000 in base compensation and bonuses.
Individual contracts may differ, however, and some stars could negotiate additional terms before joining the cast.
The exposure can also create financial opportunities away from the ballroom. Contestants often receive increased attention on social media and can pursue endorsements, appearances, or other entertainment projects as their seasons unfold.
Robert Irwin and his dance partner Witney Carson captured the Season 34 championship in November 2025.
Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson won Season 33 a year earlier, while Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy took home the trophy for Season 32.
Charli D’Amelio and Mark Ballas won Season 31 in 2022, following Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach’s Season 30 victory.
Season 35 is now taking shape, with Maura Higgins, Ciara Miller, Savannah Bananas player Jackson Olson, and Jimmy Kimmel Live! Personality Guillermo Rodriguez is among the celebrities already announced.
Guillermo will compete alongside Carson, the reigning professional champion.
Actress Jenna Dewan and former Bachelorette contestant Tyler Cameron are also expected to join the cast, along with chef Giada De Laurentiis and Hanson singer Taylor Hanson.
ABC is scheduled to reveal the complete Season 35 lineup on Good Morning America on Sept. 2.
