Mark Ballas believes Maura Higgins has what it takes to succeed on Dancing With the Stars season 35. The former pro dancer, currently starring as Billy Flynn in Chicago on Broadway, praised his Traitors co-star's approach to the competition.
"I think that's a really smart way to approach Dancing With the Stars," Ballas said. "Be open-minded, have fun, be a blank slate person."
He acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that contestants often face stress and exhaustion, especially after week six, which he called "the trench." However, he highlighted Higgins' attitude as a key advantage.
"Maura is just a laugh and she's up for it," he added. "And that's half the battle. So I think she's going to do really well."
Ballas, who will judge the upcoming Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, offered his support: "I will always be able to answer the phone if she needs a pep talk."
Higgins, best known for Love Island, expressed excitement about joining the show. She credited her vision board for manifesting the opportunity. "I have a vision board and I redo it every year," she said. "Dancing With the Stars was already on it from the year before. However, I added five more Dancing With the Stars on the board."
She admitted being "shocked" when she learned she'd be competing alongside Summer House's Ciara Miller. "I shed a tear, which I don't normally do," she recalled. "Dancing With the Stars is something I really have been wanting for quite some time."