How much are DWTS judges, contestants, and professionals paid?
FANS of Dancing with the Stars have long speculated how much the judges, cast, and pro dancers take home after every season.
Though the latest season has finally wrapped up, fans are still eager to know how much everyone is taking home.
How much do the DWTS 2023 judges, contestants, and professionals get paid?
Each season, celebrities are paired with professional dancers and compete for a chance to bring home the Mirrorball trophy.
While only one couple can win the competition, not everyone goes home empty-handed, as most are still compensated for their time.
According to several sources, including , the starting salary for celebrities is $125,000.
This includes at least 20 hours a week of professional training.
For stars who make it to weeks three and four, there is also a bonus amount of $10,000 per week.
Week five sees an additional $15,000 tacked on, weeks six and seven add $20,000 per week and weeks eight and nine equal $30,000 extra for the celebs.
There is also an additional $50,000 for those who make it to the semi-finals and finale.
It is rumored that a starting salary for a pro is $1,600 per episode, but seasoned pros can make up to $5,000 per episode.
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The reported cap for a professional dancer is said to be $100,000 per season.
In the early days of DWTS, it was reported that judges made $250,000 per season.
After season 2, however, it has been reported that some judges can make up to $1.2 million per season, as per .
While there might be several reports out there, neither ABC nor DWTS has ever confirmed these figures.
Who are the DWTS judges?
During Season 32, fans saw several faces return to the judging panel.
This season's judges included Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough.
Sadly, former head judge Len Goodman passed away in April 2023 after retiring the season prior.
Alfonso Ribeiro returned as a host and was joined by DWTS dancer alum Julianne Hough.
When did Dancing with the Stars end?
The past few seasons of DWTS have been some of the most controversial.
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Between hosting shake-ups, low ratings, and changing networks, some fans were shocked the show returned.
However, Season 32 of DWTS premiered on September 26, 2023, via Disney+ and ABC. The finale episode aired on the network on December 5, 2023.