Louis Van Amstel, an original cast member of Dancing with the Stars, set the stage for a legacy of professional dancers when he partnered with Trista Sutter in season one. This Dancing with the Stars pro’s journey on the show spans numerous seasons, culminating in his season 31 appearance with Cheryl Ladd. Beyond the ballroom, Van Amstel has channeled his passion into LaBlast, a dance fitness program offering online classes and masterclasses led by the pro himself, extending his influence as a Dancing with the Stars pro into the fitness world. His personal life also blossomed, with his marriage to Joshua Lancaster in 2017 and the adoption of their sons Daniel in 2019 and Jonny in 2020, showcasing a fulfilling life both in and out of the spotlight of Dancing With The Stars Pros.
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Edyta Sliwinska, a beloved Dancing with the Stars pro, graced nearly a dozen seasons of DWTS since its inception in 2005. Partnering with celebrities ranging from Joey Lawrence to Cameron Mathison, her final season, season 22, saw her dance with Geraldo Rivera. Sliwinska’s contribution as a Dancing with the Stars pro extends beyond her partnerships; she and fellow DWTS professional Alec Mazo celebrated their union in 2007, solidifying a DWTS family. Their family expanded further with the arrival of their children, Michael in 2014 and Leia in 2017, blending her professional life as a Dancing with the Stars pro with personal milestones.
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Alec Mazo, a prominent Dancing with the Stars pro, achieved a historic win in the show’s inaugural season, claiming the mirrorball trophy with Kelly Monaco. This victory marked a significant moment for Dancing with the Stars pros and the show itself. After a brief hiatus, Mazo returned for seasons 4 and 5, and later for seasons 7 and 9, cementing his status amongst memorable Dancing with the Stars pros. His personal life intertwined with DWTS as well; he married fellow pro Edyta Śliwińska in 2007, and they now share two children. Transitioning careers, Mazo leveraged his experience as a Dancing with the Stars pro and earned an MBA from Stanford Business School in 2012. He is currently a General Partner at DGA Capital, showcasing a successful pivot from the dance floor to the world of finance, a testament to the diverse paths Dancing with the Stars pros can take.
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Cheryl Burke, a dynamic Dancing with the Stars pro, burst onto the scene with back-to-back Mirrorball wins in her first two seasons, partnering with Drew Lachey and Emmitt Smith. Her remarkable journey as a Dancing with the Stars pro includes over 20 seasons, concluding with season 31. Burke’s impressive tenure makes her one of the most recognizable and accomplished Dancing with the Stars pros. In 2022, she announced her departure after 26 seasons, marking the end of an era for this iconic Dancing with the Stars pro. Embracing new ventures, Burke launched her podcast Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans in 2023, delving into the behind-the-scenes stories of the dance competition with fellow cast members, offering fans a new perspective on the world of Dancing with the Stars pros. While her marriage to Matthew Lawrence concluded in 2022, Burke’s legacy as a Dancing with the Stars pro remains firmly cemented.
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Peta Murgatroyd’s journey with Dancing with the Stars began in season 12 as a troupe dancer, quickly ascending to a Dancing with the Stars pro the following season. Her talent shone brightly as she captured two Mirrorball trophies, first in season 14 with Donald Driver and again in a subsequent season, solidifying her place among the top Dancing with the Stars pros. Season 32 marked her most recent appearance, continuing her legacy on the show. Beyond professional success, DWTS became personally significant for Murgatroyd; it was where she met her husband, fellow Dancing with the Stars pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy. Their relationship blossomed, leading to a 2015 engagement and 2017 wedding. The couple are now parents to three sons, Shai, Rio, and Milan, showcasing a beautiful family life alongside their successful careers as Dancing with the Stars pros.
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Maksim Chmerkovskiy, a prominent Dancing with the Stars pro, joined the show in season 2, becoming a mainstay for nearly 20 seasons until his last performance in season 25. Known for his passionate performances and occasional off-screen drama, Chmerkovskiy is a memorable figure among Dancing with the Stars pros. While his engagement to fellow Dancing with the Stars pro Karina Smirnoff ended, DWTS ultimately led him to his lasting love. He found love with Peta Murgatroyd, another celebrated Dancing with the Stars pro. Engaged in 2015 and married in 2017, they are now a family of five with three children. Expanding his television presence, Chmerkovskiy served as a judge on season 18 of So You Think You Can Dance alongside fellow DWTS alum Allison Holker Boss, and even ventured into reality competition on season two of The Traitors, demonstrating the diverse opportunities that arise for successful Dancing with the Stars pros.
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Val Chmerkovskiy, carrying on the family dance legacy, is also a long-tenured Dancing with the Stars pro, following in his brother Maksim’s footsteps. While he first appeared in season 2, Val officially joined as a pro in season 13 and has been a consistent presence ever since. His impressive record includes three Mirrorball wins, most recently in season 32 with Xochitl Gomez. He is set to partner with Phaedra Parks in season 33, continuing his journey as a sought-after Dancing with the Stars pro. Like his brother, Val also found love within the DWTS family, becoming engaged to Jenna Johnson, another talented Dancing with the Stars pro, in 2018. They married in 2019 and welcomed their son Rome in 2023, adding to the growing DWTS family tree.
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Tony Dovolani, a veteran Dancing with the Stars pro, debuted in season 2 and graced the ballroom for 20 seasons. His dedication culminated in a Mirrorball win in season 15 with Melissa Rycroft. Even after leaving DWTS, Dovolani remained in entertainment, notably guest-hosting at Chippendales in Las Vegas in 2018, showcasing the diverse paths available to Dancing with the Stars pros. In 2023, Dovolani returned to DWTS to honor the late judge Len Goodman, a poignant moment for Dancing with the Stars pros and fans alike. Adding to his diverse portfolio, Dovolani is set to appear alongside Jennifer Lopez in the film adaptation of Kiss of the Spider Woman, proving the lasting careers Dancing with the Stars pros build. Dovolani is also a father of three, sharing Luana, Adrian, and Ariana with his wife Lina.
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Anna Trebunskaya, a skilled Dancing with the Stars pro, competed for 11 seasons starting in season 2. While she achieved runner-up in her debut season with Jerry Rice, the Mirrorball trophy remained elusive during her time on the show. Post-DWTS, Trebunskaya channeled her expertise into You Can Dance Studio in Hermosa Beach, California, which she co-owns with her mother, Irina, continuing her contribution to the dance world beyond being a Dancing with the Stars pro. She is also a mother of two, sharing her children with Nevin Millan. Trebunskaya rejoined fellow Dancing with the Stars pros in 2023 to celebrate Len Goodman’s legacy, highlighting the enduring bonds within the DWTS family.
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Kym Johnson-Herjavec, a winning Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 3. She secured two Mirrorball trophies, first with Donny Osmond in season 9 and again with Hines Ward in season 12, solidifying her reputation as a top Dancing with the Stars pro. Season 20 proved particularly life-changing; she was partnered with Robert Herjavec, leading to romance and marriage in 2016. They welcomed twins Haven Mae and Hudson Robert in 2018. Johnson-Herjavec expanded her career beyond DWTS by creating the 5678 Fitness DVD series and opening a fitness studio in Richard Simmons’ former Slimmons Studio space, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit of many Dancing with the Stars pros. In 2024, she ventured into acting, starring in Lifetime’s Hunting Housewives, further showcasing the diverse talents of Dancing with the Stars pros.
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Karina Smirnoff, a seasoned Dancing with the Stars pro, enjoyed a near-20-season run starting in season 3. She achieved second place with Mario Lopez in her debut season and won the Mirrorball in season 13 with J.R. Martinez, marking her place amongst successful Dancing with the Stars pros. Since leaving after season 22, Smirnoff has continued her dance career through performing and teaching, extending her passion beyond the DWTS stage. In 2022, she welcomed her son Theo, adding another dimension to her life as a Dancing with the Stars pro turned mother.
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Mark Ballas, a fan-favorite Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 5 and spent nearly 16 years on the show. Known for his innovative choreography and dynamic partnerships with celebrities like Melissa Joan Hart, Kim Kardashian, and Charli D’Amelio, Ballas won three Mirrorball trophies, his last being in season 31 with D’Amelio. Following this win, Ballas announced his retirement from the competition, marking the departure of another iconic Dancing with the Stars pro. In June 2023, Ballas and his wife BC Jean announced they were expecting their first child. Welcoming son Banksi Wylde Ballas in November 2023, they also continue their musical pursuits as the band Alexander Jean, demonstrating the diverse talents of Dancing with the Stars pros.
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Derek Hough, a record-breaking Dancing with the Stars pro, made DWTS his home for nine years. His unmatched success includes six Mirrorball trophies, won with partners like Nicole Scherzinger, Amber Riley, and Bindi Irwin, making him the most decorated Dancing with the Stars pro in the show’s history. After stepping away in 2016, Hough returned in 2021 as a judge, transitioning from dancer to adjudicator within the DWTS family. Hough married fellow dancer Hayley Erbert in August 2023 and supported her through a health scare in late 2023. They returned to the stage together in 2024 for their Symphony of Dance tour, showcasing their shared passion. Hough is set to judge season 33 of Dancing with the Stars, continuing his influential role within the franchise.
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Julianne Hough, a versatile Dancing with the Stars pro, has had multiple roles within the DWTS universe. After leaving as a pro in 2009, she returned as a judge from 2014 to 2017. In 2023, Hough took on co-hosting duties alongside Alfonso Ribeiro, further cementing her connection to Dancing with the Stars pros and the show. Beyond DWTS, Hough has excelled in acting, with roles in Burlesque and Footloose, and made her Broadway debut in POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive. Adding author to her credits, Hough published her fiction novel Everything We Never Knew in 2024 and released accompanying music, highlighting the multifaceted talents of Dancing with the Stars pros. While her marriage to Brooks Laich ended in divorce in 2022, Hough’s career continues to flourish, showcasing the diverse paths Dancing with the Stars pros can forge.
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Lindsay Arnold, a youthful Dancing with the Stars pro, became the second-youngest pro when she joined in 2016. Participating in 11 seasons, she reached the finals four times and won in season 25 with Jordan Fisher, demonstrating her skill among Dancing with the Stars pros. After season 30, Arnold stepped back to focus on family with her husband Samuel Cusick and their daughters Sage and June. Her sister Rylee Arnold debuted as a Dancing with the Stars pro in season 32, continuing the family’s DWTS legacy.
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Sharna Burgess, a dynamic Dancing with the Stars pro, debuted in season 16 and reached the finals five times, securing a win with Bobby Bones in season 27. Since 2020, Burgess has been in a relationship with Brian Austin Green. In season 30, they made history as the first real-life couple to compete on DWTS. Burgess took a break in season 31 to welcome their son Zane Walker Green in June 2022. Engaged in July 2023, Burgess and Green share their life updates on their podcast Oldish, giving fans a glimpse into the lives of Dancing with the Stars pros beyond the ballroom. As of season 33, Burgess remains on hiatus from the show.
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Sasha Farber, a consistent Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 17 and became a regular pro from season 22. He frequently partners with athletes, including Simone Biles and Suni Lee. For season 33, he is paired with Jenn Tran, continuing his journey as a sought-after Dancing with the Stars pro. Farber proposed to fellow pro Emma Slater live on DWTS in season 23. They married in 2018 but later divorced, with Slater filing in 2023. Despite personal changes, Farber remains a dedicated Dancing with the Stars pro.
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Emma Slater, a talented Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 17 and is set for season 33 with Reginald VelJohnson. She won a Mirrorball in season 24 with Rashad Jennings. Slater’s personal life intertwined with DWTS when she got engaged to Sasha Farber in season 23 and married him in 2018. Their split in 2022 and subsequent divorce in 2023 marked a personal change, but Slater’s professional dedication to Dancing with the Stars pros remains steadfast.
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Gleb Savchenko, a charismatic Dancing with the Stars pro, debuted in season 16 with Lisa Vanderpump. He has partnered with celebrities like Jana Kramer and Chrishell Stause and recently competed with Mira Sorvino. Season 33 will see him dance with Brooks Nader, continuing his presence among notable Dancing with the Stars pros. Savchenko has also ventured into acting, appearing in Great American Family’s Swing Into Romance in 2023. He is a father to daughters Olivia and Zlata, shared with his ex-wife Elena Samodanova, balancing his career as a Dancing with the Stars pro with family life.
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Allison Holker, a multi-talented Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 19 after her success on So You Think You Can Dance. Her work earned her an Emmy nomination. In season 20, she and Riker Lynch finished as runners-up. After DWTS, Holker continued dancing and co-hosted Dance Like a Boss with her late husband Stephen “tWitch” Boss. She returned to SYTYCD as a judge in season 18 and also hosts Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings and Design Star: Next Gen, showcasing the diverse career paths of Dancing with the Stars pros. In 2024, Holker released Keep Dancing Through: A Boss Family Groove, a children’s book co-authored with Boss before his passing in 2022. She is mother to Zaia, Maddox, and Weslie, honoring Boss’s legacy while continuing her vibrant career as a Dancing with the Stars pro alum.
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Witney Carson, a celebrated Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 18. While she didn’t reach the finals initially, she won the Mirrorball in season 19 with Alfonso Ribeiro, establishing herself as a winning Dancing with the Stars pro. After numerous seasons and top placements, Carson took a break in season 32 but is returning for season 33 with Danny Amendola, much to the delight of fans of Dancing with the Stars pros. Outside of DWTS, Carson married Carson McAllister in 2016 and they have sons Leo and Jet, balancing professional success with family life.
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Artem Chigvintsev, a Mirrorball-winning Dancing with the Stars pro, debuted on DWTS in season 19. After years of competition, he won his first Mirrorball in season 29 with Kaitlyn Bristowe. Most recently, he placed fourth in season 32 with Charity Lawson, continuing his streak as a competitive Dancing with the Stars pro. Chigvintsev shares a son, Matteo, with Nikki Garcia, whom he met on DWTS in season 25. Recent personal challenges include an arrest in August 2024 and Garcia filing for divorce in September, highlighting the personal complexities even for accomplished Dancing with the Stars pros.
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Jenna Johnson, a prominent Dancing with the Stars pro, started her DWTS journey as a troupe member in 2014 after So You Think You Can Dance. She became a pro in season 23 and was a runner-up in seasons 29 and 30. Johnson found love on DWTS, marrying Val Chmerkovskiy, another celebrated Dancing with the Stars pro, in 2019. They welcomed their son Rome in 2023, blending their professional and personal lives as Dancing with the Stars pros.
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Alan Bersten, a winning Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in season 25. In season 28, he won the Mirrorball with Hannah Brown. He recently partnered with Jamie Lynn Spears in season 32 and is set to dance with Ilona Maher in season 33, continuing his presence as a popular Dancing with the Stars pro. His DWTS journey includes a romance with Alexis Ren in season 27, showcasing the personal connections formed amongst Dancing with the Stars pros and celebrity partners.
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Pasha Pashkov, a seasoned Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS in 2019. He married fellow dancer Daniella Karagach in 2014. In his recent season, he and Ariana Madix finished third. Pashkov and Karagach welcomed their daughter Nikita in May 2023, balancing parenthood with their demanding careers as Dancing with the Stars pros. Season 33 will see Pashkov partner with Tori Spelling, continuing his journey on DWTS.
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Britt Stewart, a history-making Dancing with the Stars pro, became the first Black female pro in DWTS history in season 29. In season 31, she and Daniel Durant finished fifth and began dating. Engaged in December 2023, Stewart and Durant’s relationship blossomed both on and off the dance floor, a heartwarming story within the Dancing with the Stars pros community. Stewart’s journey is not only professionally significant but also personally inspiring, representing progress within Dancing with the Stars pros and the show itself.
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Daniella Karagach, a winning Dancing with the Stars pro, joined DWTS as a troupe member in season 28 and became a pro in season 29. She won in her second season with Iman Shumpert. Karagach and Pasha Pashkov welcomed their daughter Nikita in May 2023. Returning to DWTS just three months postpartum for season 32, she and Jason Mraz finished second, showcasing her dedication and talent as a Dancing with the Stars pro, balancing motherhood and career.
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Rylee Arnold, a fresh face among Dancing with the Stars pros, joined DWTS as a pro in season 32 after competing on DWTS: Juniors. Her debut in 2023 followed her graduation and mirrored her sister Lindsay Arnold’s DWTS career. Rylee and Harry Jowsey reached the quarterfinals in season 32 and toured together in early 2024. Despite dating rumors, their relationship remains unconfirmed, but Arnold represents the next generation of talented Dancing with the Stars pros.
