Strictly Come Dancing 2026 contestants can earn up to £100,000 for winning the Glitterball Trophy, while head judge Shirley Ballas reportedly takes home £500,000 per series, according to The Sun. The BBC's flagship dance show, which launched in 2004, returns on September 19 with new hosts Emma Willis, Johannes Radabe and Josh Widdicombe replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Contestant Pay: From £25,000 to £100,000
While the BBC has not officially confirmed contestant salaries, reports suggest each celebrity receives a flat rate of £25,000. If they survive the first few weeks, that figure rises to £40,000. Reaching the quarter-finals boosts earnings to £60,000, and finalists are paid £75,000. The winner takes home £100,000 plus the trophy.
This year's line-up includes Lacey Turner, Delta Goodrem and Will Best, who will compete weekly under the scrutiny of judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood.
Professional Dancers' Standard Rate
Professional dancers are reportedly paid a flat rate between £35,000 and £50,000 for appearing on the show. They can supplement their BBC fees through the Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals tour and leverage the show's platform for other opportunities. The pro line-up has seen changes, with Karen Hauer among recent departures.
Judges' Salaries: Ballas Leads at £500,000
Shirley Ballas started on £180,000 when she joined in 2017 but has since negotiated a rise to £500,000 per series, per The Sun. Craig Revel Horwood began at £110,000 in 2004, earned £180,000 more than a decade later, and reached £200,000 in 2020. Motsi Mabuse was reportedly offered £200,000 when she joined in 2019, though her current fee is unknown. Anton Du Beke, who replaced Bruno Tonioli, earns between £175,000 and £200,000, according to The Sun.
The 2026 series marks a significant transition with new hosts and a fresh contestant lineup, continuing the show's tradition of combining entertainment with substantial paychecks for its participants.
