Show summary Hide summary
- Why Val wants fewer politicians on Dancing With the Stars
- Dance as a bridge across divides
- Past political contestants that stirred conversation
- How inclusivity shapes the program
- Would he accept a reality star as a partner?
- Val’s approach to casting and partnership
- What his comments mean for future seasons
Val Chmerkovskiy, one of Dancing With the Stars’ most recognizable pros, is speaking up about who he thinks belongs on the ballroom floor — and who doesn’t. At a recent live event in Burbank, he made clear he prefers dancers, entertainers and personalities to public officeholders. His view ties into a larger belief about the show’s ability to unite diverse viewers for a few hours each week.
Why Val wants fewer politicians on Dancing With the Stars
Speaking to reporters during a weekend summit, Chmerkovskiy said political figures bring a different energy. He argued they can turn a family-friendly competition into a flashpoint for debate.
Kirsten Storms and ex-husband Brandon Barash relationship timeline: the highs, the drama, the split
Guitar will never die: why the instrument keeps reinventing itself
Val’s take: the show thrives when contestants are chosen for entertainment value, not political notoriety. He noted dance should be a neutral space where viewers aren’t asked to take sides.
Dance as a bridge across divides
Chmerkovskiy framed ballroom dancing as a shared experience. He believes the program’s weekly two-hour presentation offers viewers an escape.
- Dance brings people from different backgrounds together.
- Contestants of varied ages and professions can create unlikely bonds.
- Viewers focus on performance, not partisanship.
He emphasized that, even in a polarized world, a televised dance routine can spark unity instead of division.
Past political contestants that stirred conversation
The show has a history of casting controversial public figures. When former White House and media personalities joined, fans and critics took notice.
Notable political or political-adjacent competitors
- Former White House staffers who crossed into reality TV.
- Ex-political leaders who brought national attention to the season.
- Media personalities with strong public followings.
Chmerkovskiy recalled his surprise when certain names were announced. He also pointed out how the cast always includes athletes, actors and influencers alongside any political entrants.
How inclusivity shapes the program
The pro dancer stressed that the series is unique because it welcomes widely different people. That mix, he said, fuels the show’s drama and humor.
Inclusivity is key: for Val, dance doesn’t carry baggage from a competitor’s past. Instead, it offers a level playing field focused on learning routines and entertaining viewers.
Would he accept a reality star as a partner?
When asked about prospective nonpolitical names, Val mentioned a few reality TV personalities he’d like to work with. He praised their energy and said he’d be eager to choreograph for them.
Specifically, he referenced a Summer House cast member as a potential partner. He called her dynamic and upbeat, and said she appears excited about the prospect of competing.
Val’s approach to casting and partnership
Chmerkovskiy described the pairing process as part art, part logistics. He compared it to an arranged introduction — sometimes the chemistry is instant, sometimes it needs work.
- Casting directors select contestants based on a range of factors.
- Pros are assigned and then commit fully to training their partner.
- Val promised each season brings his full attention and effort.
He made it clear he will always invest in the competitor he’s matched with, no matter the background.
What his comments mean for future seasons
Val’s remarks could influence public opinion about guest choices. Producers balance ratings, controversy and entertainment when they cast.
For fans: expect a continued mix of celebrities, athletes and influencers, with some viewers hoping for fewer politically charged faces.
