Maura Higgins has offered a glimpse of her intensive training for Dancing With The Stars as she prepares to make her debut on the American dance competition.
The Irish television personality is partnered with professional dancer Mark Ballas, with the pair currently rehearsing ahead of the programme’s two-night premiere on September 15 and 16.
Higgins and Ballas already know each other after appearing together on the latest season of The Traitors US. Their partnership for the ballroom show was confirmed when the full season 35 cast was unveiled earlier this week. ([rte.ie](https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2026/0903/1590177-maura-higgins-paired-with-mark-ballas-on-dwts-us/?utm_source=openai))
Ballas is a three-time Mirrorball champion and is one of the competition’s most experienced professional dancers. Higgins, meanwhile, previously took part in Dancing On Ice in 2020 and has spoken about having Irish dancing experience as a child. ([rte.ie](https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/2026/0903/1590177-maura-higgins-paired-with-mark-ballas-on-dwts-us/?utm_source=openai))
The new series will also feature stars including Julia Stiles, Jenna Dewan, Harry Shum Jr, Tatyana Ali, Giada De Laurentiis and Olympic figure skater Amber Glenn.
