Former “Dancing With the Stars” pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy is making his stance clear about a potential return to the ballroom. In a new interview with Access Hollywood, the longtime DWTS veteran said he does not see himself stepping back into the competition again. “I think the boat has sailed. I think my comeback is in the distant past,” he said, marking a firm decision after nearly a decade away from the series.
Chmerkovskiy competed on the show for 17 seasons, beginning in season 2 and dancing his final routine in season 25. He appeared in the finale five times and won once alongside Olympic ice dancer Meryl Davis in season 18. Throughout those years, he became one of the franchise’s most recognizable pros, known for his competitive spirit, choreography style, and on-camera presence.
The series also played a major role in his personal life. Chmerkovskiy met fellow pro Peta Murgatroyd on the show, and the two later married in 2017. They now share three sons — Shai, Rio, and Milan — which he says is one of the biggest reasons he cannot imagine returning to the show’s demanding schedule. According to People, he explained that performing on DWTS while raising young kids would be “very tough” and no longer aligns with where he is in life.
Family Life and the Show’s Evolving Format Are Key Factors
In addition to family responsibilities, Chmerkovskiy pointed to the changing format of DWTS as another reason he doesn’t believe a return makes sense. Per People, he said the competition has become heavily influenced by social media engagement, something he struggles to picture himself participating in. “I can’t fathom doing so much social media, and without it, how do you win?” he told the outlet.
He referenced season 34 winner Robert Irwin, who holds a major TikTok following, as an example of how online influence now plays a significant role in the show’s outcome. Chmerkovskiy noted that while he still feels physically capable of performing, the atmosphere and expectations surrounding the competition have shifted into territory he does not feel connected to.
Despite stepping away from the ballroom, Chmerkovskiy remains active in the dance world. He has appeared as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance, regularly shares dance content with Murgatroyd, and continues to comment on DWTS episodes and performances.
He recently made headlines for critiquing new pro Jan Ravnik’s ballroom technique, later apologizing and expressing hope they could move forward positively, according to Entertainment Weekly.
Chmerkovskiy Says He Has Moved On — and So Has the Show
GettyAlthough fans often speculate about whether the fan-favorite pro might ever return to DWTS, Chmerkovskiy says he is now focused on new creative endeavors and family life. He emphasized that his decision is not about ability but about finding the right place for himself in the present version of the show.
“I’m looking forward to so much more dancing out of my body,” he told Access Hollywood, adding that while he respects the series, he believes both he and DWTS have evolved in different directions.
