For nearly three decades, Dancing with the Stars has captivated audiences, bringing celebrities from all walks of life into the glamorous and challenging world of ballroom dance. However, at the heart of this beloved show are the professional dancers – the true stars who bring expertise, passion, and artistry to the dance floor. These seasoned performers not only guide their celebrity partners but also infuse each season with breathtaking choreography and unforgettable moments. Let’s delve into the journeys of some of the most iconic dancers from Dancing with the Stars, exploring their careers, achievements, and what they’ve been up to since gracing the ballroom. From seasoned veterans who have been with the show since its inception to newer faces bringing fresh energy, discover the captivating stories behind The Dancers Of Dancing With The Stars.
Louis Van Amstel
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Louis Van Amstel: From DWTS beginnings to dance fitness innovator.
Louis Van Amstel holds a special place in Dancing with the Stars history as one of the original professional dancers from season one. Partnering with Trista Sutter in that inaugural season, he helped set the stage for what would become a global phenomenon. Throughout his tenure on the show, Louis competed in numerous seasons, showcasing his dynamic choreography and infectious enthusiasm. His final appearance as a pro dancer was in season 31, where he partnered with Cheryl Ladd.
Beyond the glittering ballroom, Van Amstel has channeled his dance expertise into entrepreneurship. He founded LaBlast, a popular dance fitness program that offers a diverse range of online classes and in-person masterclasses led by Louis himself. LaBlast has become a global sensation, allowing people of all fitness levels to experience the joy of dance.
In his personal life, Louis Van Amstel married Joshua Lancaster in 2017. Expanding their family through adoption, they welcomed their first son, Daniel, in 2019 and became a family of four in 2020 with the adoption of their son Jonny. Louis’s journey exemplifies a fulfilling life both inside and outside the dance world, making him one of the most memorable dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Edyta Sliwinska
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Edyta Sliwinska: A DWTS mainstay and family-focused dance icon.
Edyta Śliwińska is another beloved original cast member, gracing nearly a dozen seasons of Dancing with the Stars since its debut in 2005. Known for her elegant style and strong technique, Edyta partnered with a diverse array of celebrities, from Joey Lawrence to Cameron Mathison, and most recently Geraldo Rivera in season 22. Her presence brought a consistent level of grace and professionalism to the show, cementing her status among the admired dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Edyta’s personal life intertwined with her DWTS journey when she married fellow pro dancer Alec Mazo in 2007 in the romantic city of San Francisco. Their shared passion for dance blossomed into a family, welcoming their first child, Michael, in 2014, followed by their daughter, Leia, in 2017. Edyta balances her dedication to family with her continued involvement in the dance world, inspiring fans both on and off the screen.
Alec Mazo
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Alec Mazo: From inaugural DWTS champion to business leader.
Alec Mazo etched his name in Dancing with the Stars history as one-half of the very first winning pair. Partnering with Kelly Monaco in season one, Alec’s choreography and guidance led them to victory, taking home the coveted mirrorball trophy and setting a precedent for excellence. He returned for seasons 4 and 5, and later for seasons 7 and 9, consistently delivering captivating performances. Alec’s early success helped solidify the show’s popularity and the prominence of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Alec’s personal life also flourished during his DWTS years. He married fellow pro Edyta Śliwińska in 2007, creating a power couple within the Dancing with the Stars family. They have since built a family with two children.
Venturing beyond the dance floor, Alec pursued further education, earning his MBA from Stanford Business School in 2012. He now applies his business acumen as a General Partner at DGA Capital, demonstrating a successful transition from professional dance to the world of finance. Alec’s diverse career path illustrates the multifaceted talents of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Cheryl Burke
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Cheryl Burke: A DWTS legend and candid podcast personality.
Cheryl Burke stormed onto the Dancing with the Stars scene with an immediate impact, winning the Mirrorball trophy in her very first season (season 2) with partner Drew Lachey. She maintained her winning streak, securing another victory the following season with Emmitt Smith. Cheryl became synonymous with DWTS excellence, appearing in over 20 seasons and becoming one of the most recognizable dancers of Dancing with the Stars. Her remarkable 26-season run concluded with her departure in 2022, a decision she described as deeply emotional.
Cheryl’s post-DWTS career has seen her explore new avenues in media. In 2023, she launched her third podcast, Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans, where she candidly discusses her experiences on the dance competition show alongside other former cast members. This venture allows fans to gain behind-the-scenes insights into the world of Dancing with the Stars from one of its most prominent figures.
Her personal life has also been in the public eye. Cheryl married Matthew Lawrence in 2019, but the couple later separated in 2022. Despite personal transitions, Cheryl Burke remains a celebrated figure in the DWTS universe and beyond, a testament to the lasting impact of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Peta Murgatroyd
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Peta Murgatroyd: From DWTS troupe member to multi-Mirrorball winner.
Peta Murgatroyd’s journey on Dancing with the Stars began in season 12 as a troupe dancer. Her talent and charisma quickly propelled her to the position of a professional dancer in the following season. Season 14 marked her breakthrough as she clinched her first Mirrorball trophy with partner Donald Driver. She has since added another Mirrorball to her collection and most recently danced in season 32, consistently showcasing her powerful and passionate dance style. Peta embodies the aspirational rise seen in many dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Dancing with the Stars also played a pivotal role in Peta’s personal life. She met her future husband, fellow dancer Maksim Chmerkovskiy, on the show. Their romance blossomed, leading to an engagement in 2015 and marriage in 2017. Peta and Maks have since expanded their family, joyfully welcoming three sons: Shai, Rio, and Milan. Peta’s story is a heartwarming blend of professional success and personal fulfillment, showcasing the vibrant lives of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy
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Maksim Chmerkovskiy: A DWTS icon known for passion and talent.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy joined the Dancing with the Stars family in season 2 in 2006 and quickly became a fan favorite. His dynamic personality and intense commitment to dance captivated audiences for nearly 20 seasons. While he never shied away from drama both on and off the dance floor, his passion for dance was undeniable. Maksim’s performances were always a highlight, contributing significantly to the show’s excitement and solidifying his place among the prominent dancers of Dancing with the Stars. He last competed as a pro in season 25.
Despite a prior engagement to fellow DWTS pro Karina Smirnoff that ended, Maksim found lasting love with Peta Murgatroyd. Their relationship, which began within the DWTS community, led to an engagement in 2015, marriage in 2017, and the joy of raising three children together.
In recent years, Maksim has transitioned into judging roles, showcasing his expertise on So You Think You Can Dance season 18 alongside Allison Holker Boss. He also made a foray into reality competition on season two of The Traitors. Maksim’s continued presence in entertainment demonstrates the enduring careers of dancers of Dancing with the Stars beyond the ballroom.
Val Chmerkovskiy
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Val Chmerkovskiy: Carrying on the DWTS legacy with Mirrorball wins and family.
Continuing the Chmerkovskiy family legacy on Dancing with the Stars, Val Chmerkovskiy, Maksim’s younger brother, is also a long-time professional dancer on the show. While he first appeared in season 2, it was season 13 that marked his debut as an official pro dancer. Since then, Val has become a DWTS mainstay, participating in nearly every season and securing three Mirrorball trophies, most recently in season 32 with Xochitl Gomez. He is set to dance with Phaedra Parks in season 33, continuing his impressive run as one of the leading dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Similar to his brother, Val also found love within the DWTS world. He and Jenna Johnson got engaged in 2018, their relationship blossoming amidst the shared passion for dance. They married in 2019 and welcomed their first child, a son named Rome, in 2023. Val’s journey reflects both professional achievement and personal happiness, further highlighting the intertwined lives of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Tony Dovolani
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Tony Dovolani: From DWTS ballroom to Hollywood screens.
Tony Dovolani’s history with Dancing with the Stars stretches back to season 2, where he joined as a professional dancer. He danced for an impressive 20 seasons, becoming a beloved figure for his charm and dedication. His perseverance paid off in season 15 when he won the Mirrorball trophy with partner Melissa Rycroft. Tony’s longevity and success on DWTS cemented his place among the esteemed dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
After his time on DWTS, Tony continued to embrace the entertainment world. In 2018, he took on a guest hosting role at Chippendales in Las Vegas, showcasing his versatility. In a poignant return to DWTS in 2023, Tony paid tribute to the late head judge Len Goodman. Adding to his diverse resume, Tony is set to appear alongside Jennifer Lopez in the upcoming screen adaptation of Kiss of the Spider Woman.
Tony balances his professional pursuits with family life, sharing three children, Luana, Adrian, and Ariana, with his wife Lina. His career trajectory demonstrates the diverse opportunities that open up for dancers of Dancing with the Stars after their time on the show.
Anna Trebunskaya
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Anna Trebunskaya: From DWTS ballroom to studio ownership.
Anna Trebunskaya was a DWTS professional dancer for 11 seasons, beginning in season 2. She made a strong debut, finishing as runner-up in her first season with partner Jerry Rice. While the Mirrorball trophy eluded her during her tenure, Anna consistently delivered memorable performances and contributed to the show’s high standard of dance. She remains a respected figure among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Transitioning from the spotlight of DWTS, Anna has focused on nurturing dance talent in her own studio. She co-owns You Can Dance Studio in Hermosa Beach, California, with her mother, Irina, passing on her expertise to aspiring dancers. Anna is also a mother to two children, balancing her passion for dance with family life.
In 2023, Anna returned to the DWTS ballroom alongside former castmates to honor the legacy of Len Goodman, showcasing the enduring bonds among dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Kym Johnson-Herjavec
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Kym Johnson-Herjavec: A DWTS double champion and fitness innovator.
Kym Johnson-Herjavec (née Johnson) joined DWTS as a pro in season 3 and quickly made her mark. She achieved Mirrorball victory twice, first in season 9 with Donny Osmond and again in season 12 with Hines Ward. Kym’s energetic choreography and winning partnerships cemented her reputation as one of the most successful dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Season 20 of DWTS brought a significant personal chapter for Kym. She was partnered with Shark Tank star Robert Herjavec, and their on-screen chemistry blossomed into a real-life romance. They continued dating after the season, married in 2016, and welcomed twins Haven Mae and Hudson Robert in 2018.
Beyond the ballroom, Kym has ventured into fitness entrepreneurship. She created her own workout series, 5678 Fitness DVD and companion diet book, and opened a fitness studio in the former Slimmons Studio space of Richard Simmons. In 2024, she expanded her acting credits, starring in Lifetime’s Hunting Housewives. Kym’s diverse achievements highlight the entrepreneurial spirit often found in dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Karina Smirnoff
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Karina Smirnoff: A DWTS veteran with a passion for performance and teaching.
Karina Smirnoff’s impressive nearly 20-season run on DWTS began in season 3, where she and partner Mario Lopez achieved a strong second-place finish. She finally lifted the Mirrorball trophy in season 13 with partner J.R. Martinez. Karina’s strong technique and captivating stage presence made her a consistently engaging performer and a prominent figure among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars. She left the show after season 22.
Since departing DWTS, Karina has continued her dedication to dance through performance and education. In 2022, she embraced motherhood, welcoming her first child, son Theo. Karina’s ongoing commitment to dance and her new role as a mother showcase the evolving lives of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Mark Ballas
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Mark Ballas: A DWTS triple champion with a rockstar edge.
Mark Ballas made his DWTS debut in season 5 in 2007 and quickly established himself as a creative force. Over his nearly 16 years on the show, he partnered with a wide range of celebrities, including Melissa Joan Hart, Kim Kardashian, Shannen Doherty, Aly Raisman, and Charli D’Amelio, to name a few. Mark’s innovative choreography and ability to connect with his partners led to three Mirrorball victories, with his last win in season 31 alongside Charli D’Amelio. He is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated dancers of Dancing with the Stars. Following this win, Mark announced his retirement from the competition.
Beyond dance, Mark is a talented musician. He and his wife, BC Jean, form the band Alexander Jean, a fusion of their middle names. In June 2023, Mark and BC Jean shared the joyous news of expecting their first child, and welcomed their son Banksi Wylde Ballas in November 2023. Mark’s multifaceted career highlights the diverse talents and passions of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Derek Hough
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Derek Hough: The winningest DWTS pro and multi-talented entertainer.
Dancing with the Stars became a defining chapter in Derek Hough’s career. During his nine years as a professional dancer on the show, Derek achieved a record-breaking six Mirrorball trophies. His winning partners included Nicole Scherzinger, Amber Riley, and Bindi Irwin, showcasing his exceptional ability to guide celebrities to victory. Derek is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential dancers of Dancing with the Stars. He announced his departure as a pro in 2016 but returned in 2021 as a judge.
Derek’s talents extend beyond the ballroom. He married fellow dancer Hayley Erbert in August 2023 and has been a pillar of support during her health challenges. Together, they returned to the stage in 2024, completing their Symphony of Dance tour. Derek continues to judge Dancing with the Stars season 33 alongside Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli. His ongoing career exemplifies the enduring success and diverse paths taken by dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Julianne Hough
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Julianne Hough: A DWTS triple threat – pro dancer, judge, and host.
Julianne Hough’s relationship with Dancing with the Stars is multifaceted. After leaving as a pro dancer in 2009, she returned in 2014 as a judge until 2017. In 2023, Julianne took on a new role, co-hosting DWTS season 32 with Alfonso Ribeiro. Her continued involvement highlights her lasting connection to the show and her versatile talent within the DWTS family of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Julianne has successfully branched out into acting, singing, and writing. She had major roles in films like Burlesque (2010) and Footloose (2011). In 2022, she made her Broadway debut in POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive. Julianne also became a published author with her 2024 novel Everything We Never Knew and released accompanying music.
Her personal life has seen changes as well. Julianne married Brooks Laich in 2017, but they announced their separation in 2020 and finalized their divorce in 2022. Julianne’s diverse career and evolving journey showcase the broad horizons achieved by dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Lindsay Arnold
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Lindsay Arnold: A DWTS youngest pro success story and devoted mother.
Lindsay Arnold made DWTS history as the second-youngest pro when she joined in 2016. She participated in 11 seasons, reaching the finals four times and winning in season 25 with Jordan Fisher. Lindsay’s youthful energy and dynamic choreography made her a fan favorite and a prominent figure among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars. After season 30, Lindsay stepped back to focus on her family with husband Samuel Cusick and their daughters, Sage and June.
Continuing the Arnold family’s DWTS presence, her sister Rylee Arnold joined as a pro in season 32. Lindsay’s dedication to family and dance exemplifies the personal choices and priorities of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Sharna Burgess
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Sharna Burgess: A DWTS firecracker with a family focus.
Sharna Burgess debuted as a DWTS pro in season 16 and became known for her fiery personality and passionate performances. She reached the finals five times, securing a Mirrorball trophy in season 27 with Bobby Bones. Sharna’s vibrant presence made her a standout among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Since 2020, Sharna has been in a relationship with Beverly Hills, 90210 star Brian Austin Green. In season 30, they made history as the first real-life couple to compete on DWTS. Sharna took a break from DWTS for season 31 to welcome their son, Zane Walker Green, born in June 2022. As of season 33, Sharna remains on hiatus, enjoying family life. Brian proposed to Sharna in July 2023, and they shared their engagement news in September 2023. Sharna’s journey reflects the personal and professional balance sought by dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Sasha Farber
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Sasha Farber: A DWTS choreographer known for his celebrity partnerships.
Sasha Farber joined DWTS in season 17 and became a consistent pro from season 22 onwards. He is known for partnering with athletes, including Olympic gymnasts Simone Biles and Suni Lee. For season 33, he is partnered with Bachelorette Jenn Tran. Sasha’s ability to adapt his choreography to diverse celebrity partners makes him a valuable asset among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Sasha’s personal life was intertwined with DWTS when he proposed to fellow pro Emma Slater during season 23. They married in 2018 but later split, with Slater filing for divorce in 2023. Despite personal changes, Sasha remains a dedicated and admired member of the DWTS professional dancer cast.
Emma Slater
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Emma Slater: A DWTS champion with a bright future.
Emma Slater joined DWTS as a pro in season 17 and is preparing for season 33 with partner Reginald VelJohnson. She won the Mirrorball trophy in season 24 with Rashad Jennings. Emma’s engaging personality and skilled choreography have made her a popular figure among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Emma’s engagement to Sasha Farber occurred during a live DWTS taping in 2015, and they married in 2018. Though they split in 2022 and divorced in 2023, Emma continues to shine as a professional dancer on DWTS.
Gleb Savchenko
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Gleb Savchenko: From DWTS ballroom to acting roles.
Gleb Savchenko joined DWTS in season 16, partnering with Lisa Vanderpump. He has danced with celebrities like Jana Kramer and Chrishell Stause and most recently Mira Sorvino. For season 33, Gleb will dance with Brooks Nader. Gleb’s charismatic performances and international background add to the diverse appeal of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Outside of DWTS, Gleb has explored acting, appearing in Great American Family’s Swing Into Romance in 2023. He is also a father to daughters Olivia and Zlata with ex-wife Elena Samodanova.
Allison Holker
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Allison Holker: A DWTS Emmy-nominated talent and multi-platform star.
Allison Holker transitioned from So You Think You Can Dance to DWTS in season 19 and earned an Emmy nomination for her work on the show. She participated in four seasons, achieving second place in season 20 with Riker Lynch. Allison’s versatility and contemporary dance background broadened the stylistic range of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
After DWTS, Allison continued her multifaceted career. She and her late husband, Stephen “tWitch” Boss, hosted Dance Like a Boss on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Allison returned to SYTYCD as a judge in season 18 and hosts shows like Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings and Design Star: Next Gen. In 2024, she released a children’s book, Keep Dancing Through: A Boss Family Groove, co-authored with tWitch. Allison’s resilience and continued success exemplify the inspiring journeys of dancers of Dancing with the Stars. She is a mother to Zaia, Maddox, and Weslie.
Witney Carson
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Witney Carson: A DWTS Mirrorball winner with entrepreneurial ventures.
Witney Carson joined Dancing with the Stars as a pro in season 18 and won the Mirrorball trophy in her second season (season 19) with Alfonso Ribeiro. She has consistently placed high in subsequent seasons and will return for season 33 with Danny Amendola after taking a break during season 32. Witney’s bubbly personality and dynamic choreography have made her a beloved figure among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Beyond dance, Witney married her high school sweetheart Carson McAllister in 2016 and has two sons, Leo and Jet. She has also launched a beauty-related business, showcasing the entrepreneurial drive of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Artem Chigvintsev
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Artem Chigvintsev: From DWTS newcomer to Mirrorball champion.
Artem Chigvintsev debuted on DWTS in season 19 and achieved his first Mirrorball trophy in season 29 with Kaitlyn Bristowe. Most recently, he placed fourth in season 32 with Charity Lawson. Artem’s dedication and partnership skills have made him a respected member of the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Artem shares a son, Matteo, with Nikki Garcia, whom he met when they were partners on DWTS season 25. Recent personal news includes Artem’s arrest in August 2024 and Garcia filing for divorce in September 2024. Despite personal challenges, Artem’s professional contributions remain a part of the DWTS dancer legacy.
Jenna Johnson
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Jenna Johnson: A DWTS rising star and family focused dancer.
Jenna Johnson’s DWTS journey began in 2014 as a troupe member after So You Think You Can Dance. She became a pro in season 23 and was runner-up in seasons 29 and 30 with Nev Schulman and JoJo Siwa. Jenna’s consistent high placements demonstrate her skill and potential among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
DWTS also brought Jenna her personal partner, Val Chmerkovskiy. They married in 2019 and welcomed their son, Rome, in 2023. Jenna balances her thriving dance career with motherhood, exemplifying the evolving roles of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Alan Bersten
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Alan Bersten: A DWTS Mirrorball champion known for his engaging partnerships.
Alan Bersten joined DWTS in season 25 and won the Mirrorball trophy in season 28 with Hannah Brown. He is known for his engaging partnerships and choreography. For season 33, Alan is paired with Olympian Ilona Maher. Alan’s success and consistent presence solidify his place among the popular dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
During season 27, Alan and partner Alexis Ren confirmed a romance, though it ended by December of that year. Alan’s focus remains on his dance career and delivering memorable performances on DWTS.
Pasha Pashkov
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Pasha Pashkov: A DWTS pro with a strong competitive drive.
Pasha Pashkov joined DWTS as a pro in 2019. In his most recent season, he and Ariana Madix finished third. Pasha’s competitive spirit and partnership with Ariana made season 32 memorable. He and his wife, Daniella Karagach, welcomed their daughter Nikita in May 2023. In season 33, Pasha is partnered with Tori Spelling. Pasha represents the dedicated and family-oriented nature of many dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Britt Stewart
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Britt Stewart: DWTS first Black female pro and engaged to her partner.
Britt Stewart made DWTS history as the first Black female pro in season 29. In season 31, she and CODA actor Daniel Durant finished fifth and began a romantic relationship. Britt’s groundbreaking presence and heartwarming love story with Daniel highlight the positive impact of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Britt and Daniel announced their engagement in December 2023, their relationship blossoming from dance partners to life partners. Britt’s journey is an inspiring example of the personal connections formed on DWTS.
Daniella Karagach
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Daniella Karagach: A DWTS champion balancing motherhood and dance.
Daniella Karagach joined DWTS in season 28 as a troupe member and became a pro in season 29, finishing third with Nelly. She won the Mirrorball trophy in her second season (season 30) with Iman Shumpert. Daniella’s rapid success and Mirrorball win showcase her talent and dedication among the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Daniella and her husband, Pasha Pashkov, welcomed their daughter Nikita in May 2023. She returned to DWTS just three months later for season 32, finishing second with Jason Mraz. Daniella’s ability to balance motherhood and a demanding dance career is truly admirable.
Rylee Arnold
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Rylee Arnold: The fresh face of DWTS, following in her sister’s footsteps.
Rylee Arnold joined DWTS as a pro in season 32, after competing on DWTS: Juniors in 2018. Her debut came shortly after high school graduation, continuing the Arnold family’s DWTS legacy after her sister Lindsay Arnold. Rylee’s youthful energy and talent represent the next generation of dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Rylee partnered with reality star Harry Jowsey in season 32, reaching the quarterfinals. They toured together in early 2024. Rylee’s early career success suggests a bright future as one of the dancers of Dancing with the Stars.
Conclusion:
The professional dancers of Dancing with the Stars are the backbone of the show’s enduring appeal. Their talent, dedication, and passion for dance are what truly make the ballroom sparkle. From original cast members to fresh new faces, these dancers have not only entertained millions but have also built remarkable careers and personal lives, often intertwined with the DWTS family. As Dancing with the Stars continues to evolve, the spotlight remains firmly on these exceptional artists – the dancers of Dancing with the Stars – who bring the magic to life each season.
