Three-time Mirrorball champion Val Chmerkovskiy has spent two decades dazzling audiences on Dancing With the Stars, but the professional dancer says he’s beginning to consider life beyond the ballroom.
“This is my 20th season,” Chmerkovskiy, 39, reflected in a conversation with Danielle Fishel on her Dancing With Danielle podcast.
Despite his tenure on the show, Chmerkovskiy admitted his future is unclear. Between his personal goals and the realities of the television industry, Chmerkovskiy remains realistic about the natural arc of his career. He knows producers could be eyeing younger talent to keep the show fresh and replace him at any time.
“I’m not delusional about the fact that my tenure on the show will eventually come to an end before the show comes to an end. And I want it that way,” he said.
“I think my life is better with the show around whether I’m on it or not. I’m a huge champion of this project.”
Regardless, Chmerkovskiy remains confident in his capabilities. Last week alone, he and his season 34 partner Alix Earle scored a 23 out of 30 on “TikTok Night.”
“I’m still killing it” he quipped.
Over the last 20 seasons, Chmerkovskiy has become one of the most recognizable and successful dancers associated with DWTS. He’s got the technical prowess, but fans also love him for his charisma.
Of course, the multiple Mirrorball wins don’t hurt, either.
Fans love watching him work with celebrities with little dance experience to athletes and actors who can keep up with his moves and high standards.
Retirement from DWTS might be on the horizon, but Chmerkovskiy’s love for the show remains steadfast. Until his decision to retire is clear (or made clear for him) we’ll likely see Chmerkovskiy for seasons to come.
Overall, he did make one thing clear — he doesn’t want to hog the lime light.
If there’s another dancer waiting in the wings, he’ll gladly step aside on one condition—”you have to earn it.”
Watch Dancing With the Stars Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET or stream on Hulu.
