DWTS could make Longford's Maura a ‘household name’ in the US, PR expert predicts

TV star Maura Higgins makes her much anticipated debut tonight on the US show, Dancing With The Stars.

Many DWTS fans have already tipped Maura and her professional dancing partner Mark Ballas, to make it to the final. In addition to Mark having a history of success on the show, he and Maura already know each other well, having been friends before filming began. The pair starred together on the US version of Celebrity Traitors earlier this year.

While Maura has enjoyed plenty of success stateside, even more so since her participation on Celebrity Traitors US, a PR expert predicts it’s her DWTS appearance that will see her profile skyrocket.

Speaking exclusively to Covers, celebrity PR specialist Kayley Cornelius highlighted the importance the show could hold for the future of Maura’s career.

“Her huge six-figure fee for taking part in the show is only the start of what could come from her appearance if she plays her cards right,” Kayley explains. “The real money-makers will be in the work that follows, as there’s potential of the doors opening to bigger TV and movie opportunities, presenting work and major brand partnerships.”

“We’ve already seen Maura take on face-of-the-brand campaigns with the likes of Guess, and if she can establish herself as a household name in the US, we could see her being considered for major campaigns with brands such as Kim Kardashian’s Skims or even the likes of YSL, Dior and Louis Vuitton.”

Kayley went on to describe the opportunity as potentially “the most pivotal moment” in Maura’s career to date.

“With a new gig as the host of Blind Date and the I’m a Celeb, she’s already building a career stateside, but DWTS gives her the kind of mainstream US TV exposure that could take her profile to another level, with a successful run seeing her become a household name with American audiences.”

She added, “Of course, there is a lot riding on how the show goes for her. If she goes out early or fails to connect with the US audience, she risks missing out on the momentum that a successful run could create.”

“DWTS is giving Maura a huge platform, but it will ultimately be how she performs, how audiences respond to her and how far she can go in the competition that determines just how much it can do for her career.”

Kayley, who is famed for her experience in celebrity and media PR, says the key to success for Maura will be having standout moments on the show that capture attention and ideally go viral on social media.

She explains, “Social media will also play a huge part in the couple’s DWTS campaign. If she and Mark can create moments that get people talking online, it could help keep her front of mind between episodes and encourage viewers to follow her journey beyond the show.”

“The aim will be to turn that weekly exposure into a lasting fanbase, rather than simply having people tune in for the duration of the competition.”

Fortunately Kayley believes Maura is primed for success with Mark as her pro partner.

Speaking about the partnership, Kayley says, “It’s best-case scenario for Maura to be paired up with Mark Ballas. Not only is he a three-time champion, he’s also hugely popular amongst fans. With shows such as this nowadays, it’s not always about who is the most talented but who is able to entertain the most.”

“With DWTS, Maura has the chance to win over a whole new audience and, if she can build that connection with viewers, it could be hugely beneficial for her career stateside.”

She added “Because the pair have already built up a bit of a rapport with one another, it will likely give them a huge advantage heading into the show. They have already proved that they can entertain together, so I have no doubt the duo will quickly become a fan favourite and steal the spotlight.”

“Mark knows exactly what it takes to go far in the competition, and having such a popular and experienced partner could be a huge advantage for Maura.

“The pair will both definitely be in it to win it, and with Mark’s experience, their natural chemistry and the potential to make a real impression with US audiences, I have no doubt they could bring a very strong campaign to be the next winners of the Mirrorball Trophy!”