Former DWTS Pro Fires Back at Casting Choices
In a candid discussion that has stirred up fan debate, Maks Chmerkovskiy criticized the casting decision that brought Jan Ravnik, a dancer closely associated with Taylor Swift, onto Dancing with the Stars as a professional. Speaking on The Penthouse with Peta podcast, Chmerkovskiy argued that Ravnik lacks essential foundation, technique, and partnership understanding required to coach celebrities in a televised ballroom format.
Chmerkovskiy’s Core Critique
Chmerkovskiy, who rose to fame on Season 2 and went on to compete in 17 seasons, emphasized that the show’s mission is not simply to showcase dancing prowess, but to teach celebrities the fundamentals of ballroom with clarity and precision. “There’s zero foundation, technique, quality, understanding of the partnership,” he asserted, adding that Ravnik’s performance on a recent Wicked-themed night raised serious concerns about his ability to translate complex ballroom concepts to a partner who may be new to the dance floor.
Why This Matters for the Show’s Format
The tension, according to Chmerkovskiy, isn’t about personal grievances but about the show’s core objective: effective instruction and seamless partnership on screen. He pointed to the challenge of teaching a dance style that is fundamentally different from the star’s usual repertoire and the typical expectations of a ballroom pro. “How are you going to expect him to teach it and deliver that message in a format that is completely different from even ballroom dancing?” he asked, suggesting the risk of audiences not receiving the guidance they expect from a pro on a high-profile competition program.
Reaction from the DWTS Community
The conversation also featured input from Peta Murgatroyd, a fellow former pro, who described Ravnik’s hiring as a controversial choice given his perceived lack of formal ballroom credentials. She remarked that the decision appeared to be driven by Ravnik’s association with Taylor Swift rather than a demonstrable track record in ballroom competition. “They hired him. He’s a Taylor Swift dancer. It’s the obvious reason why he is hired,” Murgatroyd stated, while also noting Ravnik’s evident talents and charisma.
Is Talent Enough, or Do Pro Standards Matter More?
The debate taps into a broader industry question: should reality competition shows prioritize entertainment value and celebrity appeal, or should they adhere to strict technical standards for their professional dancers? Proponents of higher entry requirements argue that the audience benefits from demonstrations of true technique, musicality, and storytelling within the framework of ballroom dance. Critics, meanwhile, contend that the show thrives on star power and dynamic pairings, even if it means stepping outside traditional qualification gates.
A Missed Opportunity or Just a Different Path?
Chmerkovskiy clarified that his concerns are not personal. He said he has “zero against” Ravnik as a person but described the casting as a missed opportunity to elevate the show’s instructional integrity. The broader fanbase has taken sides, with debates over whether the DWTS format should prioritize rigorous dance education or celebrity-driven entertainment value.
What’s Next for the Show?
As the season unfolds, viewers will gauge whether Ravnik’s presence translates into meaningful growth for his celebrity partner and whether producers adjust their coaching approach to bridge any gaps. The ongoing discussion reflects DWTS’s balancing act between showcasing star power and delivering credible, teachable moments that resonate with both new viewers and longtime fans.
