The "DWTS: Juniors" Young Pros Roster Is STACKED
The wait is (sort of) over, people: “DWTS: Juniors” has finally revealed this season’s young ballroom pros and their mentors! To say that this list is star-studded is probably the biggest understatement of the year—these kids are no strangers to the competition scene. (In fact, we’ve already profiled four of them!). We’re eagerly awaiting part two of the reveal, when the celebrities are announced. But in the meantime, get to know these mini superstars!
1. Rylee Arnold
Mentor: Lindsay Arnold (her sister!)
We’re all about a sister duo. Whichever celebrity lands with them is certainly in capable hands—Lindsay’s got the Season 25 Mirrorball Trophy to prove it.
2. Hailey Bills
Mentor: Jenna Johnson
Hailey’s a comp-circuit regular, with a ton of titles on her resumé, and Jenna Johnson is the Season 26 Mirrorball Trophy winner. It’s safe to say this is an unstoppable combo.
3. Sage Rosen
Mentor: Gleb Savchenko
Sage is a familiar face on the L.A. commercial scene, popping up in class video after class video, not to mention tons of music videos, from Sia’s “The Greatest” to Leona Lewis’ “Fire Under My Feet.”
4. Lev Khmelev
Mentor: Keo Motsepe
This kid can WORK a ballroom. (Seriously, peep that Insta post. 🔥) Lev’s a jack of all trades, having appeared in Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling” music video, an Old Navy commercial, “Little Big Shots,” and “SYTYCD: The Next Generation,” where he made the Top 30.
5. Brightyn Brems
Mentor: Cheryl Burke
When we profiled Brightyn for our “You Should Know” column a few months back, we knew she was destined for greatness. Looks like our predictions were correct! She’s paired with “DWTS” mainstay Cheryl Burke, and we’re sure this will be a dynamic duo.
6. Elliana Walmsley
Mentor: Emma Slater
Elliana is no stranger to the world of TV dance: she’s been a Dance Moms regular since 2016, and just snagged the title of Mini Female Best Dancer at The Dance Awards in Las Vegas.
7. Tristan Ianiero
Mentor: Artem Chigvintsev
Tristan’s got not one but two Best Dancer titles under his belt, as well as tons of mileage on the comp scene, including a place on the 2018 Beat Squad at Dancerpalooza. He’s a super versatile mover, so watching him step into a ballroom role will certainly be exciting.
8. JT Church
Mentor: Alan Bersten
JT stole America’s heart on “SYTYCD: The Next Generation,” where he was runner-up. Since then, he’s grown tremendously (both in size and style), claiming the title of Mini Best Dancer at the 2017 Dance Awards, and 2018 Core Performer at Radix. We’re eagerly anticipating his return to TV!
9. Kamri Peterson
Mentor: Witney Carson
When Dance Spirit first profiled Kamri, it was back when she was in Paris competing at the World Amateur Ballroom Championships. This wunderkind can really do it all—not to mention, she’s basically a mini-Witney, so this is a pairing we’re doubly excited about!
10. Jake Monreal
Mentor: Sasha Farber
Jake’s another “SYT” alum, having made it to the Top 7. He’s got a super-strong ballroom background, and an A+ mentor to boot—Jake and his celeb partner will definitely be a pair to beat.
11. Artyon Celestine
Mentor: Brandon Armstrong
You may recognize Artyon as one half of Artyon & Paige, the dynamic duo we profiled for our May/June “You Should Know” column. This kid’s got moves in all the genres, and we’re so amped for his turn on the “DWTS” stage.
12. Kameron Couch
Mentor: Hayley Erbert
Kameron, better known as Kami on the comp circuit (and Katie’s twin!), is a standout member of Molly Long’s Project 21 and a stellar contemporary queen. She’s made the Top 10 and 20 at Radix and The Dance Awards, respectively. This is Kami’s first time dancing on TV, so we’re extra-excited for her debut!
