The Best Dance Competition Shows Ever Made
The best competitive reality shows make you feel like dancing - well, the dancing competition shows, anyway. It’s almost impossible to turn on a television these days and not find a reality television program of some kind and of the most popular genres in the field is the dance competition show. These are programs made to challenge people’s skills at dancing and various other choreographed moves to see who is the best competitor of them all!
Many dance competition shows combine an amateur with a professional, which tends to make for great programming. Shows like So You Think You Can Dance? and Dancing with the Stars are two popular competitive series that show the world just how nuanced and creative dancing can be. The UK especially seems to love dance competition series, with shows like Strictly Come Dancing lasting for well over a decade.
There truly are tons of examples of this genre, but not all dancing competition shows are as good as the moves seen on screen. There’s so much to choose from, but there are a few series that are considerably better than others thanks to the intense competition found in each episode. This list highlights the very television best dance competitions so don't forget to vote up your favorite while you’re here.
- 1Jenna Dewan Tatum, Jennifer Lopez, Ne-Yo
- Premiered: May 30, 2017
World of Dance, a riveting dance competition show, has been captivating audiences with its high-octane performances and exceptional talent. Hosted by the vivacious Jenna Dewan and featuring a star-studded panel of judges, including the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Derek Hough, and Ne-Yo, the show has garnered quite a fan following. Notable contestants such as The Lab, Les Twins, and Unity LA have graced the stage, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as they showcase their jaw-dropping moves and innovative choreography.
- 2Mark Thompson, Nigel Lythgoe, Cat Deeley
- Premiered: July 20, 2005
So You Think You Can Dance, a television dance phenomenon, has been serving up a smorgasbord of spectacular performances since its inception in 2005. Hosted by the effervescent Cat Deeley, this show has been a launching pad for many a talented dancer. The expert panel of judges, including Nigel Lythgoe, Mary Murphy, and a rotating cast of guest judges, provide invaluable feedback to contestants vying for the title. The likes of Twitch, Allison Holker, and Melanie Moore have all cut a rug on this show, showcasing their prowess in various dance styles and winning hearts all over the nation.
- 3Mario Lopez, Layla Kayleigh, JC Chasez
- Premiered: 2008
America's Best Dance Crew, a high-energy dance competition, has been wowing audiences since 2008 with its unique format and incredible talent. Hosted by the charismatic Mario Lopez, the show has featured legendary dance crews such as the Jabbawockeez, Super Cr3w, and Quest Crew. The discerning panel of judges, including JC Chasez, Lil Mama, and Shane Sparks, have provided constructive criticism and encouragement to these gifted contestants, helping them elevate their performances to new heights.
- 4Tom Bergeron, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli
- Premiered: June 1, 2005
Dancing with the Stars, the epitome of ballroom glitz and glamour, pairs celebrities with professional dancers to compete for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Hosted by Tyra Banks and featuring a panel of expert judges, including Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli, the show has been a hotbed for dazzling performances and unforgettable moments. Notable contestants such as Alfonso Ribeiro, Bindi Irwin, and Jordan Fisher have waltzed, tangoed, and cha-cha'd their way into the hearts of millions of viewers.
- 5Megan Thee Stallion, Law Roach, Leiomy Maldonado
- Premiered: May 27, 2020
Legendary, a groundbreaking voguing competition show, brings ballroom culture to the forefront with its fierce contestants and extravagant performances. Hosted by the fabulous Dashaun Wesley and featuring an eclectic panel of judges, including Jameela Jamil, Leiomy Maldonado, Law Roach, and Megan Thee Stallion, this show has been making waves in the dance community. The House of Balenciaga, House of Lanvin, and House of Escada are just a few of the talented groups vying for the crown, showcasing their incredible dance skills and passion for ballroom culture.
- 6Craig Robinson, Ken Jeong, Paula Abdul
- Premiered: December 27, 2020
The Masked Dancer, a whimsical spin-off of the wildly successful The Masked Singer, features celebrities donning elaborate costumes and disguises while performing dance routines. Hosted by the lively Craig Robinson and judged by Ken Jeong, Paula Abdul, Brian Austin Green, and Ashley Tisdale, this show keeps viewers guessing the identities of the masked dancers. Notable contestants such as Cotton Candy, Sloth, and Zebra have entertained audiences with their enigmatic performances and surprising reveals.
