Mark Ballas Signals Openness to Return on Dancing with the Stars Season 35

Mark Ballas, a three‑time Mirrorball Trophy winner who retired from Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) in 2023, confirmed he is “open” to returning as a pro for the upcoming Season 35. He told reporters, “I’m open. I mean, it just depends. The show has their system that they go through and they’re deeply in the casting process right now.”

Ballas is currently finishing a limited Broadway engagement as Billy Flynn in the musical Chicago, which runs through August 16. He also serves on the judges panel for the DWTS spinoff series The Next Pro, where his mother Shirley Ballas and rotating guest judges evaluate twelve contestants competing for a spot on Season 35. Ballas said he enjoys teaching, choreographing and could consider a permanent judging role if the show decides.

The network has announced a two‑night premiere for Season 35 on September 15‑16, 2026, and will reveal the new roster of professional dancers later this year.