Dancing with the Stars judges’ riders Dressing room ‘special demands’ include some surprising items
They are the high profile cast of one of the most popular shows on Australian TV.
Under the bright stage lights, the esteemed judges of Dancing with the Stars – Craig Revel Horwood, Helen Richey, Sharna Burgess, and Mark Wilson – radiate their glamorous presence.
However, from a recent interview, it appears that they prefer a straightforward approach off-stage, requiring minimal amenities from the production team for their backstage comforts.
In this week’s interview with New Idea, all four judges from DWTS shared their unique requests (often referred to as “riders” in the showbiz world) and their disclosures turned out to be quite unexpected.
For Helen Richey, a seasoned ballroom dance expert and previous star on “Dancing with the Stars,” who is now 78 years old, she shared with the press that all she requires are ‘Fresh produce for eating and a cozy seat to rest.’
To keep up with the latest on Hollywood scandals, fashion faux pas at premieres, trending photos, and viral incidents, don’t forget to sign up for our showbiz newsletter from DailyMail. Stay informed!
Judge Sharna Burgess admitted that her preferences for backstage snacks in the dressing room have evolved since her initial appearance on DWTS in 2009.
‘Eight years ago you’d see tequila, beer, coffee and a veggie plate,’ she told the publication.
Nowadays, it’s essential to focus on electrolytes, fruits, and water – plus, I only consume Red Bull when I’m officiating events.
‘This mama’s bedtime is 8.30pm so the caffeine hit has to be extra large.’
Mark Wilson shared with New Idea that during his time backstage, he primarily stuck to drinking sparkling water and opted for healthy snack options.
His co-star and judge Craig Revel Horwood can ‘show up [in his dressing room] with French wine’.
Suddenly, it feels like a wild party here,” he quipped playfully, implying, “One moment I was judging the cha-cha, and the next I was shouting for Craig to find my hair!
The setting begins with bubbly water and nutritious treats, but when Craig arrives, he brings along some French wine, and all of a sudden, it’s a lively celebration in the changing room.
Meanwhile, Craig confessed that he particularly enjoys ‘crispy Shapes dipped in French onion sauce’ as his preferred snack in the dressing room.
As anticipation builds for the 2025 season of Dancing with the Stars Australia, it’s not just the sizzling cha-cha moves that are generating buzz.


A bombshell report reveals the jaw-dropping salaries being pocketed by this year’s celebrity cast.
At the peak of the income hierarchy, you’ll find three prominent figures in the television world: Rebecca Gibney, who has made a name for herself as an actress, Osher Günsberg, a familiar face as the host of The Bachelor and Masked Singer, and Shaun Micallef, a comedy legend.
According to Woman’s Day, it is said that all three of them are each receiving a significant $100,000 payment for their appearances on the popular Channel Seven show.
As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: When it comes to production, using established names not only adds prestige but also taps into pre-existing audiences. This is according to my industry source who shared this insight with Daily Mail Australia.
‘Producers know they’re worth the investment.’
Simultaneously, it is reported that swimming icon Susie O’Neill, AFL champion Trent Cotchin, and news anchor Michael Usher are all estimated to be in a similar income bracket, each receiving approximately $47,000.
A number of rising stars such as radio personality Brittany Hockley, social media influencer Mia Fevola, boxer Harry Garside (from the Olympics), comedian Felicity Ward, actor Kyle Shilling (from Home and Away), and news anchor Karina Carvalho are said to receive an equal amount of $27,000 each.
‘Some of them were surprised by how little they were offered,’ claimed another insider.

For individuals new to a field or aiming to increase their visibility, the benefits derived from the exposure outweigh the monetary compensation they might receive.
Experts within the field believe that the significant difference in salaries is due to a combination of factors such as long-standing reputation, dedication to existing networks, and popularity among the general public.
According to the source, well-known veterans such as Rebecca and Osher earn the most because they are widely recognized and appreciated by viewers.
‘But with a limited budget, not everyone can be on six figures.’
Read More
- Vampire’s Fall 2 redeem codes and how to use them (June 2025)
- Clash Royale Best Boss Bandit Champion decks
- BLG vs SEN: VALORANT Masters Toronto results and match recap
- Simply powerful! FaZe are about to crash their way to Stage 3 of CS2 BLAST Austin Major 2025
- CS2 Falcons at Stage 2 of BLAST Austin Major 2025: Mission to survive
- Sentinels vs Wolves: VALORANT Masters Toronto match results and recap
- Magic Chess: Go Go Commander Tier List
- Playoffs express! Two teams hit the final brackets of BLAST Austin Major 2025
- OG and NRG clash at the CS2 BLAST Austin Major 2025 for a St. 2 spot
- TH vs WOL. The first goodbyes at VALORANT Masters Toronto
2025-06-24 18:34