Reality television personality Maura Higgins is reportedly on track to earn a six-figure sum from her participation in the upcoming season of "Dancing With The Stars," as speculation mounts among her co-stars that the competition may be structured for her victory.
Higgins, 35, has been building a presence in American television following her fame on "Love Island." Her previous U.S. ventures include hosting an American spin-off of the dating series and securing a runner-up position on "The Traitors U.S." This new role on "Dancing With The Stars" sees her partnered with Mark Ballas, son of "Strictly Come Dancing" judge Shirley Ballas.
Financial details suggest Higgins is guaranteed £93,000 even if eliminated within the first two weeks. The potential earnings increase weekly, with an additional £7,000 per week for weeks three and four. Reaching week five offers another £11,000, and week six adds £20,000. Celebrities can earn an extra £22,000 per week for reaching weeks eight and nine.
Despite the financial prospects, Higgins's involvement has been accompanied by whispers of favoritism. Reports indicate that some co-stars are displeased with Higgins's perceived influence, particularly her alleged desire to be partnered with Ballas. Sources claim Higgins was eager for the partnership and expressed reservations about being paired with professional dancer Gleb Savchenko. "It’s as if what Maura says goes," one source told The Sun.
Higgins and Ballas have prior familiarity, having both appeared on "The Traitors U.S." earlier in the year. The proximity to a show judge, Bruno Tonioli, has also drawn attention. "It’s not gone unnoticed within the cast that she’s being favored. It’s as if she’s being set up to win," a source reportedly stated.
Higgins previously voiced strong opinions about a potential professional dance partner, stating she did not wish to be paired with Savchenko due to disagreements over his views on women. She also indicated a desire to remain loyal to her friend and former "DWTS" contestant Brooks Nader, who had previously dated Savchenko. Savchenko has since responded, stating he has no knowledge of Higgins and is unconcerned by her opinion.
In addition to "Dancing With The Stars," Higgins is expanding her American television footprint. She was recently announced as the new host of the U.S. version of "I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here." This follows her appearances on "The Traitors U.S." and hosting "Love Island U.S.: Aftersun."
Further diversifying her resume, Higgins is also set to host a reboot of the dating show "Blind Date" in the UK. She confirmed her role as co-host for the U.S. "I'm A Celebrity..." alongside Rob Rausch, whom she met on "The Traitors." The program is slated to air on Peacock next year, though its filming location remains undetermined.