Briar Nolet and Jake Monreal were eliminated in the premiere episode of Dancing with the Stars spin-off The Next Pro. The show, which seeks to fill a pro dancer vacancy ahead of the fall season, featured performances by 12 contestants on Monday.
The episode aired with male dancers performing jive routines and female dancers performing samba routines. Guest mentor Derek Hough provided choreography and guidance during rehearsals.
Briar Nolet slipped during her solo and had a sloppy side-by-side section, while Jake Monreal looked down at the floor too much during his performance. Both were sent home after the first round.
Other contestants included Stephani Sosa, sister of current pro Ezra Sosa, and franchise alum Jake Monreal from Dancing with the Stars Juniors. Judges Shirley Ballas and Mark Ballas evaluated the performances alongside the weekly mentor.
Next week Brandon Armstrong will assist with personal story dances, and remaining bottom four contestants Natalie and Tristen face further challenges.