DWTS Pro Jen Affleck Defends Partner Jan Ravnik Against “Slander” From Fellow Dancers

Jen Affleck is standing by her professional partner. The Dancing With the Stars contestant is defending Jan Ravnik from public criticism. The backlash comes from former pros Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd. The new season is currently airing on ABC.The controversy began on a recent podcast episode. Maksim and Peta questioned Jan’s qualifications for the role. They cited his background as a backup dancer for Taylor Swift.

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Maksim Chmerkovskiy did not hold back his opinion. He stated Jan Ravnik has “zero foundation technique.” He also criticized his understanding of dance partnership. The comments were made on an October podcast episode.Peta Murgatroyd echoed her husband’s sentiments. She acknowledged Jan is a great dancer. However, she called it “outrageous” to hire a non-ballroom dancer for the teaching role. She suggested his connection to Taylor Swift was a key factor in his casting.

Ravnik and Affleck Respond With Taylor Swift Performance

Jan Ravnik addressed the criticism indirectly. He and Jen Affleck performed to Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do” on Halloween Night. The song is widely known as a diss track. Jan shared a rehearsal photo on Instagram Stories with pointed lyrics.He later clarified the song choice was Jen’s idea. According to Glamour magazine, he initially wanted to avoid using Swift’s music early on. He did not want to be accused of leveraging the connection for votes. The Halloween theme provided the perfect opportunity.Jan also spoke about the personal toll of online hate. He admitted to experiencing daily anxiety. He confirmed the intense schedule leaves him exhausted. Despite the pressure, he expressed his enjoyment for the competition.

 

Behind the Scenes of the Hit Dancing Competition

The show continues to be a major draw for ABC. Contestants are reportedly paid a base salary for participation. Pros earn more money the longer they stay in the competition. The pairing process is tightly controlled by producers.Rehearsals are an intense, daily commitment. Dancers often practice for four-hour blocks. Their entire schedule is devoted to perfecting routines. The costume department works at a frantic pace to create new looks each week.

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The ongoing season of Dancing With the Stars continues to generate headlines. The show combines celebrity appeal with high-stakes competition. This latest controversy highlights the intense scrutiny its professional dancers face.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who criticized Jan Ravnik on Dancing With the Stars?

Former pros Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd publicly questioned his casting. They made their comments on a recent podcast episode. They argued a non-ballroom dancer should not be teaching the craft.

What song did Jan and Jen perform for Halloween Night?

They danced to Taylor Swift’s “Look What You Made Me Do.” The performance was widely seen as a response to the critics. Jan is a former backup dancer on Swift’s Eras Tour.

How are celebrities and pros paired on the show?

Producers make the final decision on partnerships. They consider factors like height, build, and personality compatibility. The pros typically do not know their partner until the first meeting.

Do professional dancers get a bonus for winning?

Jenna Johnson has stated pros do not get a larger paycheck for winning. However, they receive a bonus for making it to the finale. Their salary covers the entire duration of their time on the show.

How much rehearsal time do the pairs have?

Partners rehearse for four hours every day. Their schedule is divided into specific time blocks. The work is intense and continues throughout the week with no days off.