The world-renowned dance competition series “Dancing with the Stars” is set to gain another brother-sister dynamic duo as Stephani Sosa, sister of professional dancer Ezra Sosa, competes for a coveted spot in the upcoming season. As one of 12 contestants vying for a place among the professional dancers in season 35, Stephani is keen to make her mark in this challenging environment.
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Ezra Sosa, who joined “Dancing with the Stars” as a pro dancer in season 33 after progressing from the troupe in season 31, has shared valuable advice with his older sister. He first made headlines as the first Latin dance professional on the show in over a decade, partnering with Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, he expressed his understanding of the pressures that come with such high-stakes competition.
“It’s crucial to be mentally prepared,” Ezra stated, highlighting the intensity of the competition. He emphasised the importance of resilience: “This competition is a pressure cooker.” While he couldn’t be physically present to support her during the show, he imparted one key message: “If for whatever reason you become a pro, it’s going to be based on your own merit.” This sentiment reflects the ethos of the show, where talent and hard work are paramount.
Despite her brother’s absence during the competition, Stephani appreciated his moral support. At a recent watch party for “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro,” she revealed to PEOPLE the challenges posed by the production’s restrictions. Contestants had their phones taken away, limiting her access to Ezra during the competition. “I really was on my own,” she said, expressing gratitude for her brother’s encouragement. However, she noted that they could speak every few days, and their conversations brought her much-needed positivity.
“Every time I called, he was so happy to hear that I was still in the competition,” she added, remarking on his enthusiasm after each check-in. Their sibling bond has been a constant source of inspiration for her throughout the competition, contributing to her personal growth and evolution as a dancer.
The experience of competing on the show has proven to be transformative for Stephani. Describing it as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” she also views it as a catalyst for her artistic development. “It really did push me as a dancer and as an artist,” she said, reflecting on the intensity of the training and performances.
Prior to joining “Dancing with the Stars,” Stephani drew significant attention for her performance during Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show in February 2026, where she danced alongside stars like Karol G and Cardi B. This unforgettable experience of representing the Latino community on one of the world’s biggest stages remains a highlight of her career. “Being part of that, to be a part of history, I will never forget that performance,” she remarked with pride.
As the competition progresses, sharing the stage with notable fellow competitors such as Adele Zaikman and AJ Pritchard, Stephani continues to channel the energy from her previous performances into her dance journey. Each moment on “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” brings its own set of challenges and triumphs, reflecting the hard work and dedication that each contestant has invested.
“Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro” airs every Monday evening at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC, allowing fans to follow Stephani’s and her fellow dancers’ journeys. As she prepares for this significant step in her career, the excitement around her participation and the potential of a brother-and-sister duo on the dance floor adds another layer of intrigue to this beloved series.
With her unwavering determination and the support of her brother, Stephani Sosa is poised to make a lasting impression in the world of dance, as she strives to carve out her own legacy on “Dancing with the Stars.”