Imagine being a self-proclaimed “guy with two left feet,” suddenly swept into sequins and spotlights. That was Bobby Bones when he joined Dancing With the Stars in 2018. Seven years later, the Mirrorball champ just revealed on Jason Tartick’s Trading Secrets podcast that the show didn’t just give him bragging rights—it paid out close to $400,000. Here’s the inside scoop on how a Nashville radio star turned shaky samba steps into serious cash.
DWTS: The Surprising Business Move
Dancing With the Stars isn’t only about perfect pirouettes—it’s a strategic career boost. Bobby called the pay “pretty good,” but that’s an understatement. Contestants start with nerves of steel and no check for the first episode, but once episode two hits, the dollars roll in: $10,000 for that week, then another $10K, climbing to $20K and eventually $50K per episode for those who survive to the end.
Bobby’s Six-Figure Breakdown
Video: Bobby Bones: From $2,500 an episode to $1.2M for th
Bobby endured every elimination round in Season 27, stacking up earnings like a pro investor. With a base salary of about $110,000 for rehearsals and early weeks, plus escalating weekly payments, his take-home soared to roughly $400,000. That’s a far cry from the reported 2019 standard of $295,000 for finalists, proving Bobby’s win hit a financial high note.
The “Cheat” That Made the Difference
Here’s the twist: Bobby confessed, laughing, “I cheated.” Not in the scandalous sense—DWTS limits practice to four hours daily. Bobby secretly filmed his sessions and rented extra studio time to practice solo. That extra grind closed the skill gap and helped transform his stiff moves into a championship routine. Call it a clever hustle, not a foul.
Underdog Energy and Fan Backlash
Video: Bobby Bones: From $2,500 an episode to $1.2M for the season?! BTS of striking the balance of it all!
Bobby freely admits, “I sucked.” Judges’ scores hovered low, and even Julianne Hough later said she “strongly disagreed” with his win. But America loves an underdog. Viewers voted for his relentless effort and relatable charm, proving that on DWTS, heart can outscore high heels.
What the Pros Really Earn
While celebs chase six figures, professional partners like Sharna Burgess or Jenna Johnson typically start at $1,200–$1,600 per episode, climbing through the season. A finalist pro might earn around $100,000, plus a modest finale bonus. No jackpot for the pros—just steady pay for serious sweat.
Beyond the Mirrorball: Bobby’s Career Boom
The real treasure? Opportunity. Since DWTS, Bobby has landed gigs as an American Idol mentor and host of National Geographic’s Breaking Bobby Bones, along with book deals and tours. That Mirrorball turned out to be a career launchpad worth far more than the initial $400K.
