Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy delighted fans by showcasing their dance prowess once again during the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show held in Miami Beach, Florida, on May 30. The former partners from the popular television programme *Dancing with the Stars* captivated the audience as they reignited their chemistry on stage, just weeks after their impressive run in the show’s previous season.
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Earle, a 25-year-old influencer, sashayed onto the catwalk in a striking blue swimsuit, making a memorable entrance behind Chmerkovskiy, 40. In a playful moment that charmed onlookers, Earle dramatically ripped open Chmerkovskiy’s mesh shirt before the duo broke into an impromptu dance routine. This light-hearted exchange set a lively tone before they continued down the runway, showcasing their strong partnership.
The show was not solely a reunion for Earle and Chmerkovskiy. Other familiar faces from the *DWTS* universe were also in attendance, including Chmerkovskiy’s wife, Jenna Johnson, who is also a professional dancer, and Emma Slater, both of whom captivated the crowd with their own performances. Together, the group highlighted the enduring connections formed through their shared experiences on the dance floor.
During their time on *Dancing with the Stars*, Earle and Chmerkovskiy made a significant impact, advancing all the way to the finals of season 34. Their journey culminated on November 25, when they competed alongside other talented pairs for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Notable competitors included Robert Irwin and Witney Carson, as well as Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa, among others. The finale showcased a series of performances where each couple had to impress the judges in a Judges’ Choice round, an Instant Dance challenge, and a Freestyle round.
Despite Earle and Chmerkovskiy’s valiant efforts, it was ultimately Irwin and Carson who claimed the Mirrorball Trophy, bringing home the win from a season filled with intense competition. Both Alix and Val were hugely popular, garnering an unprecedented level of votes, with Julianne Hough noting that the finals had one of the closest voting results in the show’s history—a testament to their strong fanbases.
Even prior to their runway appearance, the pair had reunited earlier in the year, coinciding with Earle’s upcoming participation in the *Dancing with the Stars Live!* Tour. Several TikTok videos surfaced in February of the duo preparing for rehearsals, with Earle playfully filming Chmerkovskiy as he got ready. Capturing moments that featured her teasing him about his cologne and flaunting their signature moves, Earle enthusiastically declared “VALIX is back,” reigniting excitement among fans.
In an amusing twist, Earle shared her momentary struggle with recalling dance steps from their time on the show, demonstrating a nostalgic move known as the baby freeze. This encapsulated their playful interactions and underscored how much fun they had while dancing together.
This recent runway event was more than just a showcase of physical talent; it highlighted the lasting connections forged through their time on *Dancing with the Stars*. For many viewers, watching the dynamic pair reignite their chemistry was a joyful reminder of the impact that the show can have on its contestants, extending beyond competition.
As both Earle and Chmerkovskiy continue to engage their fans through various platforms, their performance in Miami Beach served as a celebration not only of their individual accomplishments but also of the shared experiences that have become a cherished part of their careers. Whether they’re on a competitive stage or walking the runway, this duo clearly continues to enchant audiences everywhere with their unparalleled talent and charisma.