Maura Higgins has taken her US career to new heights with the announcement that she will join the lineup for the upcoming season of Dancing With The Stars this autumn. The 35-year-old former Love Island star, who gained a significant American following after appearing on the US version of The Traitors earlier this year, is reportedly in line for a £5 million payday thanks to new deals with network executives.
Confirmed for Season 35
On Wednesday, it was confirmed that Higgins will appear on the 35th season of the hit show, the US equivalent of Strictly Come Dancing. She was the first celebrity unveiled for this year's lineup. The news was shared on the official Dancing With The Stars Instagram page, accompanied by the caption: 'She went from looking for love to looking for who to trust, and now she's looking to win the Mirrorball. We're welcoming @maurahiggins to #DWTS on ABC, Disney+, and Hulu this fall! #HuluGetsReal.' Higgins herself posted the announcement on her social media, writing: 'I TINK IM VERY EXCITED!'
Previous Interest in the Show
The star had previously expressed interest in appearing on Dancing With The Stars during her well-publicised stint on The Traitors. She said: 'Maybe [I'd do] Dancing With the Stars. It's something that'd be a challenge for me. I've never danced. I'd done a bit of Irish dancing when I was younger. It'd be a huge challenge, but I know I'd throw myself into it and all the looks and glitter.'
Growing US Opportunities
Sources have claimed that Higgins, who rose to fame on Love Island in 2019, has made a significant name for herself in the United States. An array of American shows and brands are keen to work with her following her appearance on The Traitors. A source told The Sun: 'Maura may have missed out on the cash prize on The Traitors but that's small change compared to what's coming her way. Shows and brands in the US are lining up for a piece of Maura and she's got more opportunities than time right now. It's an exciting place to be.'
Beauty brands are also reportedly eager to sign the star, thanks to her stunning looks and large fan base. Another source said: 'She's in talks to become the face of one of the biggest cosmetic brands in the US in a deal that will be at least seven-figures.'
Potential Reality Series and Acting Career
Insiders claim that a fly-on-the-wall series documenting Higgins' rise in America could be the next logical step, with the star reportedly already in talks with TV bosses. However, it is not just reality TV and beauty brands on her radar. She is also said to be in discussions with Disney after making her acting debut in the film The Spin.
Career Trajectory
After primarily focusing on influencer and fashion work in the years following Love Island, Higgins moved to the US in 2023, becoming a social media presenter and guest hosting a challenge for Season 5 of Love Island USA. In October of the same year, she was appointed a social media presenter for Love Island Games. In 2024, she became the host of Love Island: Aftersun. She also participated in Dancing On Ice in 2020. These roles kickstarted her TV career after she had earned significant income from clothing and makeup deals post-villa.
The star also signed with US-focused public relations agency Align last year. More recently, Higgins revealed that she has signed with a major US talent agency, Creative Artist Agency, whose client list includes big names like Lady Gaga. Her US work culminated in an invitation to the prestigious Golden Globes in Los Angeles, where she mingled with celebrities such as Jennifer Lawrence, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Emma Stone.
