On 20 October, the popular television show “Dancing with the Stars” will see professional dancer Alan Bersten make his fifth on-screen appearance as a temporary partner. This time, he will be partnering with actress and dancer Jenna Dewan after stepping in for Val Chmerkovskiy, who has been suspended. The suspension follows a recent controversy that saw Chmerkovskiy posting critical comments about judge Carrie Ann Inaba on social media, following her critique of his wife, Jenna Johnson, during a previous episode of the show.
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Bersten’s involvement comes just a few weeks after he faced elimination alongside celebrity partner Giada De Laurentiis in the second week of Season 35. His return has caused some surprise among fans, especially given that he had not previously been expected back on the show. A social media user expressed disbelief at the decision to bring back a pro after such a swift exit, to which Emma Slater, Bersten’s girlfriend and also a pro on the show, responded by affirming the practice of pros supporting one another during challenging times.
The show has a rich history of temporary partnerships, allowing for flexibility in circumstances where dancers face injury, illness, or other unexpected situations. The forthcoming episode not only underscores this tradition but also serves to remind audiences of the cooperative nature of the dance competition—a behind-the-scenes camaraderie that remains largely unseen.
Over the years, several notable instances have occurred where professional dancers have stepped in for one another under less-than-ideal circumstances. In Season 32, Ezra Sosa took over for Artem Chigvintsev after the latter tested positive for COVID-19. Sosa, who was part of the show’s dance troupe, managed to partner with Chigvintsev’s celebrity partner Charity Lawson during Latin Night, performing a cha-cha that received 21 out of 30 points.
Similarly, in Season 31, Alan Bersten filled in for Val Chmerkovskiy after he also contracted COVID-19. Despite having been eliminated the prior week, Bersten partnered with Gabby Windey, performing a dramatic Argentine tango that earned a staggering 38 out of 40 points during Halloween Night.
In another instance from the same season, Alexis Warr stepped in for Daniella Karagach when she fell ill. This substitution allowed Warr to perform alongside Joseph Baena for two weeks, where they executed a charming Viennese waltz and an impressive Argentine tango, accumulating points that demonstrated their chemistry and skill on stage.
Bersten’s willingness to step in has become something of a hallmark for him. He also took on the challenge of partnering with Heather Morris in Season 24 when Maksim Chmerkovskiy suffered a calf injury. Bersten filled in for several weeks, ensuring that Morris was well-supported throughout her performances during that time.
In multiple seasons, professional dancers like Bersten have risen to the occasion, demonstrating adaptability and the spirit of teamwork that characterises “Dancing with the Stars.” In Season 25, for example, he partnered with Vanessa Lachey when Chmerkovskiy had to miss a performance for personal reasons. This solidarity among dancers feeds a dynamic energy that keeps the show engaging and competitive.
Moreover, when injuries or illnesses arise, they often put performers in a position where they must think on their feet. Notably, Jenna Johnson filled in for Sharna Burgess in Season 23 after Burgess injured her knee. Johnson’s emergency partnership with racing driver James Hinchcliffe resulted in a perfect score during a triumphant return for both dancers.
Various memorable moments encompass the spirit of camaraderie within the “Dancing with the Stars” community. From Bersten filling in for Paige VanZant to Sasha Farber stepping in for Derek Hough, each instance has added layers to the competition. It showcases not only talent but also the resilience of the dancers as they support one another.
As the ballroom prepares for the upcoming episode, there is a palpable excitement in the air. The unexpected changes and challenges faced by the dancers only amplify the drama and entertainment present in each performance. As they navigate these hurdles, audiences can look forward to yet another captivating night filled with skill, grace, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.