Open but uncertain:: Ballas is "open" to returning but notes the timing is "tight" due to his role in the Broadway musical *Chicago*, where he is scheduled until **Aug. 16**.
Season 35 timeline:: The DWTS cast reveal is set for **Sept. 2**, meaning pro rehearsals would start well before that date.
New pro incoming:: Ballas currently serves as a judge on *Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro*, where **12 up-and-coming dancers** compete for a spot as a pro on Season 35. The winner has already been chosen (the show was pre-taped).
Advice for the winner:: Ballas warns that the first weeks are fun, but "it gets serious" around **week six** — and urges the winner to start preparing immediately.
Personal milestone:: For the first time, Ballas now displays his three Mirrorball Trophies at home, thanks to a custom cabinet gifted by his wife, singer-songwriter **BC Jean**.
Why this matters:: Ballas is one of the most decorated pros in DWTS history. His decision — or scheduling conflict — could significantly impact the dynamics of Season 35.
Mark Ballas is currently performing in the hit Broadway revival of *Chicago* through Aug. 16, 2026. The DWTS Season 35 cast reveal is scheduled for Sept. 2, but pro dancers typically begin preparations — including choreography planning and partner fittings — weeks in advance. This leaves a very narrow window for Ballas to transition from Broadway to the ballroom.
Ballas is not just a potential contestant this season — he is also a judge on *Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro*, alongside his mother Shirley Ballas and Season 34 champion Robert Irwin (who hosts).
The winner of that competition has already been taped and will earn a coveted spot as a pro on Season 35. Ballas expressed confidence in the winner's abilities and noted that the show's "seasoned pros" will be there to help them adjust.
> *"I would hope that the winner is preparing, because you're fired out of a cannon. There's a lot coming at you."*
For years, Ballas kept his three Mirrorball Trophies out of sight. That changed over the holidays when his wife, BC Jean (who co-wrote Beyoncé's *"If I Were a Boy"*), gifted him a beautiful display cabinet. The trophies — won alongside Kristi Yamaguchi (2006), Shawn Johnson (2008), and Charli D'Amelio (2022) — now have a permanent home in the living room.
Ballas also celebrated Jean's achievements, gifting her the six-times platinum RIAA certification plaque for *"If I Were a Boy."*
Ballas first won DWTS in Season 5 (2006) and has since become one of the show's most recognizable pros. His absence from Season 34 was notable, and his potential return for Season 35 would mark a major moment for longtime fans of the series.
Is Mark Ballas confirmed for Dancing with the Stars Season 35?
Not yet. Ballas has stated he is "open" to returning, but his schedule with the Broadway show *Chicago* creates a tight timeline. An official decision has not been announced.
When does DWTS Season 35 start?
The cast reveal is set for Sept. 2, 2026, with the season airing this fall on ABC. Pro rehearsals begin before that date.
Who is the new pro joining DWTS Season 35?
The winner of *Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro* will earn a spot as a pro on Season 35. The winner has already been selected (the show was pre-taped), but the identity has not been publicly revealed yet.
How many Mirrorball Trophies does Mark Ballas have?
Ballas has won three Mirrorball Trophies — with Kristi Yamaguchi (2006), Shawn Johnson (2008), and Charli D'Amelio (2022).
Where can I watch DWTS: The Next Pro?
The show airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and is available to stream on Disney+.
For DWTS fans:: Keep an eye on official announcements in late August. Ballas's involvement will shape the Season 35 lineup significantly.
For aspiring dancers:: *DWTS: The Next Pro* demonstrates that there is a clear pipeline for new talent to break into the industry. The winner's journey offers a blueprint for those pursuing professional dance careers.
For Broadway & TV crossover fans:: Ballas's situation highlights how performers increasingly balance multiple high-profile commitments — a trend worth watching in the entertainment industry.
Key takeaway:: Whether or not Ballas returns, Season 35 will feature at least one brand-new pro dancer from *The Next Pro*, injecting fresh energy into the ballroom.
Will Mark Ballas make it back to the ballroom for Season 35, or will Broadway keep him busy? Do you think the winner of *The Next Pro* is ready for the spotlight?
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