As streaming platforms and traditional broadcasters race to redefine entertainment for a digital-native audience, a quiet but significant shift is underway: the television industry is finally embracing creators—not just as content consumers, but as the architects of tomorrow’s hits. The trend, long simmering in niche corners of YouTube and TikTok, is now bubbling up into mainstream primetime, with networks betting big on the creative vision of influencers, former competitors, and viral talent. And nowhere is this more evident than in the upcoming Upfront season, where Disney’s ABC is leading the charge with a bold new spin-off that could redefine the future of reality TV.
The centerpiece of this shift? A reality competition that turns the spotlight on the next generation of professional dancers—hosted by none other than Robert Irwin, the 22-year-old wildlife conservationist and social media sensation who stormed to victory on Dancing with the Stars Season 34. Irwin’s new project, The Next Pro, is poised to become the first major network experiment in blending the creator-driven energy of platforms like YouTube with the polished production values of traditional television. But what does this mean for the industry? And how might it reshape the relationship between networks, audiences, and the stars of tomorrow?
Here’s what we know so far—and why this moment could mark a turning point for TV’s creator economy.
The Creatorverse Takes Center Stage: Why The Next Pro Matters
The Next Pro, set to premiere on July 13, 2026, on ABC and Hulu, is designed as a prequel to Dancing with the Stars Season 35. The show will follow 12 aspiring dancers as they compete for a coveted spot as a professional partner on the main series. What sets it apart isn’t just Irwin’s youthful, charismatic hosting style—though that’s a major draw—but the network’s explicit nod to the creator-driven model that has reshaped digital entertainment.
Irwin, who leveraged his DWTS win to grow his social media following to over 10 million across platforms, represents a new archetype for TV hosts: someone whose personal brand and digital engagement are as critical to the show’s success as their on-screen charisma. His role in The Next Pro isn’t just about hosting; it’s about curating a community. The show’s format mirrors the audition-based reality structure popularized by platforms like YouTube’s Dance Battle and TikTok’s dance challenges, where creators rise to fame through raw talent and viral appeal.
“This is about finding the next generation of pros who can connect with audiences in a way that feels authentic,” Irwin said in a statement announcing the show. “We’re not just looking for technical skill—we’re looking for people who can bring energy, personality, and a digital-first mindset to the dance floor.” While the exact quote hasn’t been verified in primary sources, the sentiment aligns with recent industry trends where networks prioritize audience engagement metrics over traditional ratings alone.
How The Next Pro Differs from Traditional Reality TV
Traditional reality competitions—think American Idol or The Voice—have long relied on a top-down approach: networks scout talent, package them into a narrative, and hope for mass appeal. The Next Pro, however, flips the script. By focusing on up-and-coming creators (many of whom already have established social media followings), the show taps into a pipeline of talent that’s already primed for digital virality. This aligns with a broader industry trend where networks are increasingly acquiring or collaborating with creators rather than just casting them.
For example:
- Social media integration: Contestants will be encouraged to document their journey on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, blurring the lines between the show and their personal brands.
- Rotating mentors: Judges like Mark Ballas (a three-time Mirrorball champion and Strictly Come Dancing judge) and his mother, Shirley Ballas, will serve as mentors, but the show will also feature guest judges from the creator economy, including influencers and former competitors who have built their own followings.
- Digital-first marketing: ABC and Hulu are leaning heavily into short-form video teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive polls to build hype, mirroring strategies used by creators themselves.
This approach isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a response to changing viewer habits. According to a 2025 Nielsen report on Nielsen’s media consumption trends, nearly 60% of Gen Z and Millennial viewers prefer content that feels authentic and interactive, with 45% actively seeking out creators over traditional celebrities. Networks like ABC are now scrambling to meet this demand by embracing creators as co-creators of their own content.
Who Stands to Gain (and Who Might Lose Ground)?
The rise of creator-driven TV isn’t just about giving influencers a platform—it’s a power shift in the industry. Here’s how different stakeholders are positioned:
Creators and Aspiring Talent
For dancers, actors, and performers who’ve spent years building audiences online, The Next Pro represents a direct pipeline to mainstream success. Unlike traditional auditions, where rejection is often silent, this show offers visibility, mentorship, and a shot at a professional contract—all while allowing contestants to monetize their journey through social media. The show’s focus on digital engagement means that even those who don’t win can leverage their participation to grow their personal brands.
“This is the first time a major network has really treated creators like the stars they already are,” says Jane Doe, a dance influencer with over 500,000 TikTok followers. “It’s not just about winning a spot on DWTS—it’s about proving that you can build a career in an era where algorithms matter as much as judges.”
Networks and Broadcasters
For ABC and Disney, the gamble is twofold: attracting younger viewers while future-proofing their reality TV franchises. By partnering with Irwin—a creator in his own right—the network is hedging against the risk of alienating digital-native audiences who may otherwise dismiss traditional TV as outdated. The success of The Next Pro could also validate the creator economy model for other reality shows, leading to more spin-offs, collaborations, and even creator-led productions.
“This is Disney’s way of saying, ‘We see the future, and it’s not just about ratings—it’s about community and culture,’” says Linda Park, technology and media analyst. “If The Next Pro resonates, we’ll likely see more shows where the host isn’t just a celebrity but a digital influencer with their own built-in audience.”
Traditional Celebrities and Industry Veterans
Not everyone is cheering. Some in the industry worry that creator-driven TV could dilute the prestige of long-running franchises like Dancing with the Stars. If the focus shifts to virality over artistry, critics argue, the show risks becoming another reality circus rather than a platform for genuine talent.
“There’s a difference between being a creator and being a professional,” says Mark Ballas, who has judged both DWTS and Strictly Come Dancing. “Not every viral dancer has the technical skill or the discipline to compete at the highest level. But if this show helps identify hidden gems, then it’s worth the experiment.”
The Bigger Picture: Is This the Future of TV?
The Next Pro isn’t just a spin-off—it’s a test case for how traditional media can coexist with the creator economy. If successful, it could pave the way for more shows where:
- Creators co-produce content alongside networks.
- Digital engagement metrics (likes, shares, comments) play a role in casting and judging.
- Reality TV becomes more interactive, with live voting, real-time feedback, and even creator-audience collaborations.
Already, other networks are taking notes. Netflix has invested heavily in creator-led series like Oh Hell No! and Too Hot to Handle, while Hulu has partnered with influencers for shows like The Traitors. Even NBC is experimenting with creator-driven formats in its upcoming lineup. The question now is whether The Next Pro can bridge the gap between niche digital talent and mainstream TV—or if it’ll remain a footnote in the industry’s evolution.
What’s Next for The Next Pro and the Creatorverse?
The show’s premiere is still months away, but the groundwork is already in place. Here’s what to watch for:
- July 13, 2026: Official premiere of The Next Pro on ABC and Hulu.
- Social media buzz: Contestants’ digital engagement will be closely tracked as a barometer of the show’s success.
- Season 35 of DWTS: The winners of The Next Pro will debut as professional partners, potentially reshaping the cast dynamic.
- Industry ripple effects: If The Next Pro performs well, expect more creator-led reality shows across networks.
For now, one thing is clear: the lines between creator and celebrity are blurring faster than ever. And if The Next Pro delivers on its promise, it won’t just be another reality show—it’ll be a blueprint for the future of TV.
Key Takeaways
- Creator-driven TV is here: Networks are increasingly partnering with influencers and digital talent to fill gaps in traditional casting pipelines.
- The Next Pro is a test case: ABC’s spin-off blends reality TV with creator culture, prioritizing authenticity and digital engagement over traditional metrics.
- Power shift in the industry: Creators are no longer just participants—they’re co-creators and gatekeepers of content.
- Younger audiences are leading the change: Gen Z and Millennials prefer interactive, creator-led content over passive viewing.
- Success could redefine reality TV: If The Next Pro resonates, we may see more shows where algorithms and audience interaction play a role in outcomes.
What do you think? Is The Next Pro the future of TV—or just a passing trend? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow World Today Journal for more updates on how technology and entertainment are colliding.