How much do 'Dancing with the Stars' winners make? Details on pay, prizes

Dancing with the Stars Season 34: How Much Do Contestants Earn?

As Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars comes to an end, audiences are curious about how much the celebrities actually make for stepping onto the dance floor. The show, now a long-running ABC hit, continues to attract stars across film, sports, and social media, offering both exposure and substantial paychecks.

Base Pay for Contestants

Each celebrity reportedly receives a guaranteed participation fee upon signing onto the show. According to industry sources, this base payment is around 125,000 dollars for the rehearsal period and the first two weeks of the competition.

Weekly Payment Structure

The longer a contestant stays on the show, the higher their total earnings become. Participants typically receive incremental bonuses for every week they remain in the competition. In earlier seasons, reports noted increases ranging between 10,000 and 20,000 dollars per week. Reaching the later rounds or the finals can significantly boost the overall total, sometimes exceeding 300,000 dollars by the finale.

Prize Money for Winners

While prestige and exposure are major draws, the winner also receives a final bonus payment on top of their weekly earnings. Exact prize values have varied by season, but past winners have earned around 360,000 dollars or more when combining their base pay, weekly bonuses, and the winner’s prize.

Other Earnings and Benefits

Contestants often benefit beyond the show itself. Increased social media visibility, new brand endorsements, and media opportunities can multiply the value of their participation. For professionals and influencers, appearing on Dancing with the Stars often translates into a substantial career boost.

Summary

“It’s not just about the trophy. For many contestants, the exposure on Dancing with the Stars can open doors to new opportunities in entertainment and business.”

Author’s Summary: Contestants on Dancing with the Stars Season 34 earn roughly 125,000 dollars upfront, with top finalists surpassing 300,000 dollars through weekly bonuses and prizes.

Cincinnati Enquirer — 2025-11-26