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- Jenna Johnson celebrates a decade and eyes more choreography
- Val Chmerkovskiy maps out two more decades
- Why DWTS feels culturally relevant again
- Big ideas: live arenas, crossovers and major collaborations
- Behind the scenes: cameo on RJ Decker and creative juggling
- Who they’d like to see on the dance floor next
- When to watch: premiere dates and where to stream
After decades on the dance floor, Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson are reflecting on where their careers with Dancing With the Stars could go next, as the franchise rides a wave of renewed popularity.
Jenna Johnson celebrates a decade and eyes more choreography
Johnson, who first joined the show as a teen, marked her 10-year milestone with a mix of surprise and gratitude.
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She credits the show’s team — from producers to camera crews and wardrobe — for shaping her craft. She says those years helped her grow into a confident dancer and creator.
Johnson described feeling energized this season and hungry to keep choreographing.
- Ten years on the show marked a personal landmark.
- She hopes to keep contributing creatively for many more seasons.
- Her recent work reflects a renewed fire for choreography and performance.
Val Chmerkovskiy maps out two more decades
Val reflected on arriving at the show as a student and recognized how much has changed.
Yet he says his core passion for dance is steady. He believes he has “another 20 years” to give to the ballroom.
For him, the show has moved from a longstanding entertainment staple to a genuine cultural conversation.
Why DWTS feels culturally relevant again
The pair note that recent seasons have pushed the program into new territory.
Longstanding fans and new viewers now talk about DWTS across generations. That shift has opened unexpected doors for the brand.
- Stronger mainstream buzz across social platforms.
- High-profile collaborations and cross-promotions.
- Fresh creative experiments on and off the stage.
Big ideas: live arenas, crossovers and major collaborations
Johnson floated the possibility of an arena episode at a landmark venue, suggesting the show is ready for stadium-scale moments.
Recent collaborations have already expanded the show’s footprint.
- Project Runway themed elements have appeared.
- A spinoff show, The Next Pro, is in development.
- Performances at industry events, like the Disney Upfronts, broaden the audience.
Behind the scenes: cameo on RJ Decker and creative juggling
Both pros filmed a cameo on ABC’s crime drama RJ Decker while rehearsing for DWTS.
They said time was tight, but the chance to stretch into scripted television was an easy yes.
Johnson praised the experience of working on a police procedural and complimented fellow pro-turned-actor Joey Graziadei for his commitment to the role.
How the RJ Decker cameo came together
- Filming occurred during active DWTS rehearsals.
- The cameo showcased pro dancers in a new, dramatic setting.
- It opened creative doors and built bridges with ABC scripted content.
Who they’d like to see on the dance floor next
Both Chmerkovskiy and Johnson voiced enthusiasm for inviting actors from RJ Decker to the ballroom.
They singled out lead actor Scott Speedman and others on the cast as great candidates.
- They say Speedman has the charisma and physicality to succeed.
- They encouraged any of the RJ Decker cast to consider competing.
When to watch: premiere dates and where to stream
Dancing With the Stars returns with a two-night premiere on ABC and Disney+ starting Tuesday, September 15, at 8 p.m. ET.
RJ Decker resumes on the same night at 10 p.m. ET, featuring the pro dancers in the season 2 opener.
