Chmerkovskiy Acknowledges Bersten’s Performance
Dancing With the Stars professional Val Chmerkovskiy has extended his public gratitude to fellow dancer Alan Bersten. Bersten recently took over as a substitute partner for Chmerkovskiy’s season 35 partner, Jenna Dewan, during his one-week suspension from the program.
On Tuesday, October 20, Chmerkovskiy, 40, took to the comments section of an Instagram post shared by the 32-year-old Bersten. The original post featured a tribute to Dewan. Chmerkovskiy wrote, «Thank you for stepping in and doing such an amazing job».
Regarding Dewan's performance, Chmerkovskiy added, «Jenna looks so good and most importantly happy».
Addressing Online Rumors
In addition to his words of appreciation, Chmerkovskiy took the opportunity to address speculation that had been circulating online. Following his suspension, rumors surfaced on platforms like Reddit suggesting that he had unfollowed several other DWTS personalities on social media. Addressing these claims, he jokingly remarked to Bersten, «You’re my new favorite follow».
Despite the online chatter, many followers pointed out that Chmerkovskiy had never followed all of his colleagues on social media to begin with.
Focus on the Ballroom
Bersten’s social media tribute focused entirely on his experience dancing with Dewan, 45, and honoring her mother, Nancy Smith, during the show's heartfelt dedication night. He noted, «I am so honored to be stepping in and dancing with @jennadewan you are such a light and it’s so beautiful to see you and your mom on the floor».
The sentiment was supported by Bersten’s girlfriend, Emma Slater, who offered public encouragement. When a social media user recently questioned why Bersten was selected for the replacement role, Slater, 37, defended the collaborative nature of the cast, stating, «Yeah that’s what happens, we all step in for each other».
Context of the Suspension
Prior to the broadcast, it was confirmed that Bersten, who had previously been eliminated from the current season, would fill the vacancy. Chmerkovskiy had issued a formal apology for his previous actions leading to the suspension.
«I want to apologize from the bottom of my heart for my recent post», Chmerkovskiy wrote on Instagram Stories. «I have reached out to Carrie Ann to apologize directly and personally and I also want to apologize publicly... I should never have made the reference that I did and I deeply regret it».
He concluded his statement by acknowledging the responsibility of his platform, emphasizing his intention to be more thoughtful regarding his future public comments.