A heated debate has erupted in the Dancing With the Stars community after former professional dancers Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd publicly criticized newcomer Jan Ravnik’s casting. Speaking on Murgatroyd’s podcast The Penthouse with Peta, the couple described ABC’s decision to bring Ravnik onboard as “absurd” and questioned his ballroom qualifications. The controversy has quickly become a trending entertainment headline, drawing mixed reactions from fans and industry insiders alike.
The dispute began after Dancing With the Stars introduced Jan Ravnik, a first-time pro dancer best known for performing on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. During an episode released Monday, Maksim Chmerkovskiy claimed Ravnik “has absolutely no business being a pro,” alleging he lacks the technical foundation and ballroom expertise required for the role. The remarks targeted both Ravnik’s performance and ABC’s casting choices, suggesting favoritism linked to his celebrity connections. The issue intensified following the show’s “Wicked Night” performance, where Ravnik’s choreography faced scrutiny from ballroom veterans and viewers for lacking foxtrot fundamentals.
Quotes from Former DWTS Pros
Maksim Chmerkovskiy voiced frustration with the network’s direction, stating,
“There’s zero foundation technique, quality, or understanding of partnership. It’s absurd how blind we have to be.”
He added criticism of Ravnik’s choreography, noting,
“He had no idea what foxtrot is supposed to look like. How do you expect him to teach it?”
Peta Murgatroyd echoed her husband’s views, attributing Ravnik’s hiring to his connection with Taylor Swift:
“They hired him because he’s a Taylor Swift dancer. Apart from that, he’s lovely, but hiring a non-ballroom dancer to teach ballroom is outrageous.”
Murgatroyd also expressed concern that Ravnik’s celebrity partner, Jen Affleck, is missing essential dance training due to the mismatch.
What It Means for DWTS
The remarks have reignited debates about Dancing With the Stars’ evolving format and credibility. Critics argue that prioritizing pop culture relevance over ballroom authenticity risks alienating long-time viewers and professional dancers. ABC has not issued an official response, but the controversy could impact upcoming eliminations, audience votes, and overall show perception this season.
Fans on social media remain divided — some defending Ravnik’s artistry and modern approach, while others demand stricter ballroom standards for pro-level competitors.
ABC’s Possible Response and Future Episodes
As pressure mounts, ABC and DWTS producers may address the controversy in upcoming episodes or press statements. Ravnik, who has not publicly commented on the criticism, is expected to continue competing with his celebrity partner. The next themed episode airs Tuesday, November 4, where audiences will be watching closely to see how the dancer handles the scrutiny.
