Dancing With the Stars Couples: From Showmances to Real-Life Romances

The ballroom on “Dancing With the Stars” has been the stage for more than just cha-chas and tangos. For years, the show has sparked real-life romances between its professional dancers and celebrity contestants. These relationships often begin under the bright lights and intense pressure of the competition. Some fizzle out, while others lead to marriage and family.

According to E! News, the show’s environment creates unique bonds. The long hours and physical closeness of dance training can forge powerful connections. This has resulted in numerous confirmed relationships over the show’s long history.

A Track Record of Ballroom Love

Some partnerships have stood the test of time. Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson are a prime example. They married in 2019 and now have a son. Peta Murgatroyd and Maksim Chmerkovskiy are another success story, having welcomed three children together.

Other couples found love despite not being direct partners. Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson met during season 20. They were engaged within a year and are now parents to twins. Britt Stewart and Daniel Durant, who partnered in season 31, also married after their time on the show.

Navigating Romance Rumors and Realities

Not every spark leads to a lasting flame. Many pairings are labeled “showmances,” where chemistry is for performance alone. Recent rumors involving pro Sasha Farber and both Kaitlyn Bristowe and Julianne Hough were quickly denied. Farber confirmed they were just good friends.

The line between showmance and real deal can be blurry. Pros like Emma Slater and Alan Bersten confirmed their romance years after dancing together. This shows that real relationships can, and do, develop from these professional partnerships. The ballroom remains a complex backdrop for human connection.

The legacy of “Dancing With the Stars” is not only in its mirrorball trophies. It is also in the lasting relationships formed by its cast. These “Dancing With the Stars” couples prove that sometimes, the real prize isn’t a shiny trophy at all.

Info at your fingertips

Which DWTS couples are still together today?

Several couples are still going strong. This includes Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson, and Peta Murgatroyd and Maksim Chmerkovskiy. Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson also remain married.

Did any DWTS contestants marry their pro partner?

Yes, multiple contestants have married their professional partners. A notable example is “Shark Tank” star Robert Herjavec, who married his pro partner Kym Johnson in 2016.

Have any DWTS relationships ended in divorce?

Some high-profile relationships have ended. Nikki Bella and Artem Chigvintsev divorced in 2024. Emma Slater and Sasha Farber also separated after four years of marriage.

What is the difference between a showmance and a real relationship?

A showmance is a rumored romance played up for cameras and fans. A real relationship continues off-screen and is confirmed by the people involved. The line can sometimes be unclear to viewers.

Why does DWTS create so many romantic rumors?

The intense training and physical intimacy of dance naturally create close bonds. This proximity, combined with on-screen chemistry, often leads to speculation about off-screen relationships.