dpTL;DR: The live finale of “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” airs tonight, Aug. 31, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. Cord-cutters can watch for free with free trials from DIRECTV or Fubo.
After seven weeks of competing, “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” reaches its finale tonight, Monday, Aug. 31, at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.
The ABC competition series was created to find the next professional dancer for “Dancing with the Stars,” giving rising ballroom talent an opportunity to join the main show’s cast. Twelve dancers entered the competition this summer. Only three remain.
Tonight, viewers will finally find out whether Selena Hamilton, AJ Pritchard, or Adele Zaikman earns the title of “Next Pro” and secures a professional spot on “DWTS” Season 35.
For viewers who don’t have cable or an over-the-air antenna, the episode can also be streamed live through services that carry ABC, including DIRECTV (5-day free trial) and Fubo (free trial).
‘DWTS: The Next Pro’ streaming overview
- Episode: Season 1, Episode 8, “The Final Step: Finale With Derek Hough and Witney Carson”
- Date: Monday, Aug. 31
- Time: 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT
- Channel: ABC
- Streaming: DIRECTV (5-day free trial), Fubo (free trial); next day on Disney+ and Hulu
How to watch ‘DWTS: The Next Pro’ finale for free
If you don’t have access to ABC, the easiest way to watch the finale for free is through a live TV streaming service that includes ABC and offers a free trial, such as DIRECTV or Fubo.
Here’s how to get started:
- Sign up for either a DIRECTV or Fubo plan that includes your local ABC station.
- Start the free trial.
- Stream “DWTS: The Next Pro” live when it airs tonight or watch on demand during the trial period.
DIRECTV
Free trial: 5 days
DIRECTV offers ABC as part of its signature packages, which also feature up to 185+ major sports, entertainment, and news networks. ABC is also part of the MyNews and My Sports genre packs.
Best for: Viewers looking for a cable-like replacement with sports, news, and entertainment in one package.
DIRECTV
5-day free trial
Stream your favorite shows free for 5 days, with new promotional pricing on subscriptions.
Fubo
Free trial: Available for new subscribers
Fubo includes ABC along with hundreds of live channels, regional sports networks in select areas, local stations, and extensive cloud DVR storage.
Although it’s known primarily for sports, Fubo also carries a strong selection of entertainment and lifestyle channels.
Best for: Sports fans who still want access to ABC and other entertainment networks.
Fubo
Free Trial
Stream your favorite shows free for up to 5 days, and enjoy up to $30 off your first month.
Who was eliminated in the semifinals?
The semifinals featured the final four dancers competing for three spots in tonight’s finale. At the end of the episode, Allen Genkin was eliminated, ending his bid to become the newest “Dancing With the Stars” professional.
During the semifinals, contestants performed two rounds of dances, including routines alongside current “Dancing With the Stars” pros such as Rylee Arnold, Gleb Savchenko, Jan Ravnik, and Witney Carson before judges made their final decision.
Who are the finalists?
After semifinal eliminations narrowed the field, three dancers remain in contention for the title.
Selena Hamilton
The 21-year-old Los Angeles dancer has impressed judges throughout the season with her versatility and commercial dance background. Hamilton has previously toured with Derek Hough and Lindsey Stirling and has performed alongside artists including Doechii.
AJ Pritchard
Fans of the ballroom world may already recognize Pritchard from the U.K.’s “Strictly Come Dancing.” His professional experience and technical precision have made him one of the season’s strongest competitors.
Adele Zaikman
Often viewed as the season’s underdog, Zaikman steadily improved week after week to earn a place in the finale. Her growth throughout the competition has made her one of tonight’s most intriguing contenders.
What to expect in the finale
Each finalist will perform two dances alongside former “DWTS” contestants who previously reached the show’s highest levels. The celebrity alumni returning for the finale include Charli D’Amelio, Nev Schulman, and Adam Rippon.
Each finalist will perform both a ballroom or Latin routine and a freestyle performance before the winner is crowned.
The finale will also feature a live studio audience, guest judge Derek Hough, and co-host Witney Carson joining host Robert Irwin.
Watch ‘DWTS: The Next Pro’ for free
FREE STREAMING OPTIONS
New subscribers can stream for free with a trial from DIRECTV or Fubo, both of which include access to ABC in many markets.
Who has been confirmed for ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Season 35?
While the full cast won’t be revealed until Sept. 2 on “Good Morning America,” several celebrities have already been announced for Season 35.
Confirmed contestants include:
- Maura Higgins (“Love Island UK,” “The Traitors”)
- Ciara Miller (“Summer House,” “The Traitors”)
- Jackson Olson (Savannah Bananas star)
- Guillermo Rodriguez (“Jimmy Kimmel Live!”)
ABC has also announced that “Dancing With the Stars” Season 35 will premiere with a two-night event on Sept. 15 and Sept. 16.
