Former ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy Rules Out Return to Show
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Former ‘Dancing with the Stars’ professional, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, has recently confirmed that he has no intentions of making a comeback to the popular dance competition series. Chmerkovskiy, now 45, made this statement during an interview with Access Hollywood on Wednesday, December 10, indicating that he believes his time on the show has come to an end. The talented dancer first joined ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in season 2 and departed after season 25, leaving a legacy of remarkable performances and memorable moments.
Throughout his 17 seasons on the show, Chmerkovskiy participated in the finale five times, clinching the mirror ball trophy only once in season 18 with his partner, Olympic ice dancer Meryl Davis. It was during his time on the show that Chmerkovskiy crossed paths with fellow DWTS pro, Peta Murgatroyd, whom he later married in 2017. The couple now shares three sons together: Shai Aleksander, Rio John, and Milan. Their growing family is cited as one of the main reasons Chmerkovskiy is reluctant to consider a return to the demanding show.
In the interview, Chmerkovskiy highlighted the challenges of juggling parenthood with the rigorous schedule and social media pressures associated with the show. He expressed concerns about the heavy influence of social media in determining each season’s winners, and how he would struggle to keep up with the demands of staying active on various platforms. Despite this, Chmerkovskiy remains confident in his dance abilities and physical fitness, stating that he is eager to explore new avenues for creative expression beyond the confines of the show.
While Chmerkovskiy may have closed the door on his ‘Dancing with the Stars’ chapter, he continues to stay active in the professional dance scene. His involvement as a judge on ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and his regular postings of dance content, often featuring his wife Peta Murgatroyd, showcase his enduring passion for the art form. Notably, Chmerkovskiy’s brother, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, remains a prominent figure on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ as a current dance professional, keeping the Chmerkovskiy name alive within the show’s community.
Despite stepping away from the spotlight of the ballroom, Chmerkovskiy maintains an active presence within the dance industry, offering his insights and critiques on the show’s progress. His recent comments on new pro Jan Ravnik demonstrate his continued engagement with the show’s development and his desire to contribute positively to the dance community. As fans eagerly await the next season of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in 2026, Chmerkovskiy’s decision not to return serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-evolving nature of talent and the enduring legacy he leaves behind in the world of dance.