What's Happening?
Maks Chmerkovskiy, a former professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS), has expressed strong criticism regarding the casting of Jan Ravnik as a professional dancer on the show. Chmerkovskiy shared his views on his wife Peta Murgatroyd's podcast,
stating that Ravnik, who gained recognition as a backup dancer on Taylor Swift's Eras tour, lacks the necessary foundation and technique for ballroom dancing. Chmerkovskiy described Ravnik's casting as a 'missed opportunity' and 'absurd,' emphasizing that Ravnik does not understand the basics of dances like the foxtrot. Despite acknowledging Ravnik's talent as a dancer, Chmerkovskiy believes that hiring a non-ballroom dancer to teach ballroom dancing is inappropriate. Murgatroyd agreed, noting that Ravnik's partner, Jen Affleck, is at a disadvantage due to his lack of ballroom expertise.
Why It's Important?
The criticism from Maks Chmerkovskiy highlights ongoing debates within the entertainment industry about the qualifications and expertise required for professional roles on popular television shows. DWTS is a widely watched program, and casting decisions can significantly impact the show's credibility and audience perception. Chmerkovskiy's comments may influence public opinion and spark discussions about the importance of maintaining high standards in professional dance competitions. Additionally, the situation underscores the challenges faced by dancers transitioning from different genres, such as pop tours, to ballroom dancing, which requires specific skills and training.
