Val Chmerkovskiy, a seasoned professional on “Dancing with the Stars,” recently shared insights on his experience on Hulu’s new competition show, “Got to Get Out.” The show features 20 television personalities living together for 10 days, vying for a chance to win $1 million as they strive to leave the house. This marked a shift from Chmerkovskiy’s usual dance-centric reality TV world, and he opened up about the challenges he faced adjusting to the new format during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
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In comparison to the structured routine of “Dancing with the Stars,” where they come in to work, perform, and leave, Chmerkovskiy found the continuous surveillance on “Got to Get Out” to be a major adjustment. Even during sleep, the participants were miked up with cameras in their rooms, creating a constant presence that heightened the pressures of the competition. Chmerkovskiy shared, “The game was 24/7, which puts so much pressure on everybody there.”
Despite being out of his comfort zone, Chmerkovskiy approached the challenge with an open mind, embracing the discomfort and unpredictability of the show. He humorously noted that one of the adjustments he had to make was regarding his bedtime attire, confessing, “I don’t sleep in PJs, so that took adjusting.” This candid revelation offers a glimpse into the personal adaptations required in such a competitive and immersive environment.
Acknowledging his expertise in dance and choreography, Chmerkovskiy reflected on his role on reality TV, distinguishing himself as someone skilled in his craft rather than a traditional reality star. He remarked, “I’m a master of my craft, and I love what I do, and ‘Dancing with the Stars’ just is a format that captures my process and broadcasts it to the world.” This distinction underscores his focus on his professional identity amid the unique challenges of the show.
Amid the intensity of the competition, Chmerkovskiy also faced the emotional challenge of being separated from his wife, Jenna Johnson, and their young son, Rome, for the duration of filming. The enforced disconnect from the outside world added another layer of complexity to the experience, with Chmerkovskiy highlighting it as one of the toughest aspects of his time on the show. Despite the trials of isolation, he navigated the situation with resilience and a sense of perspective.
Looking forward, Chmerkovskiy expressed openness to exploring reality TV further, possibly delving into a show centered on his life with Johnson, who is also a professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars.” While teasing his potential moodiness as a factor to consider, he hinted at a willingness to share more of his personal life on screen. This willingness to embrace new opportunities reveals Chmerkovskiy’s enduring curiosity and adaptability in the dynamic world of television entertainment.
As Chmerkovskiy’s journey on “Got to Get Out” unfolds, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in transitioning between different forms of reality TV. His insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the personal and professional adjustments required in navigating unfamiliar territory, showcasing his resilience and commitment to growth in the face of new challenges.