Maks Chmerkovskiy Says Taylor Swift’s Dancer Jan Ravnik Has “No Business” Being a Pro on Dancing with the Stars
Maks Chmerkovskiy has never been known to hold back his opinions, and his latest comments about Dancing with the Stars are stirring quite the conversation. The former DWTS pro, who became one of the show’s most recognizable faces before stepping away, recently shared his unfiltered thoughts on this season’s newest professional dancer — Jan Ravnik, a performer who gained fame as one of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour backup dancers.
During an episode of The Penthouse with Peta podcast, which he co-hosts with his wife and fellow DWTS pro Peta Murgatroyd, Maks gave a candid review of the show’s “Wicked Night” performances. But when the topic turned to Ravnik, the 44-year-old dancer didn’t mince words. “I don’t think he has any business being a pro on this show,” Maks said bluntly, sparking instant debate among fans.
Chmerkovskiy’s criticism seemed rooted not in personal dislike but in professional standards. He emphasized that DWTS pros are more than great dancers — they’re teachers, choreographers, and entertainers who must be able to connect deeply with celebrity partners and audiences alike. “It’s not about how good you are as a performer,” he said. “It’s about how good you are at bringing someone else into the spotlight.” For Maks, the role of a DWTS pro goes beyond technical ability — it’s about storytelling, mentorship, and charisma that fills the room.
Jan Ravnik, however, is hardly an amateur. The 35-year-old Slovenian dancer has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Jennifer Lopez, Bruno Mars, and most recently, Taylor Swift, performing in her record-breaking Eras Tour. Fans of DWTS quickly jumped to his defense online, pointing out his impressive résumé and undeniable stage presence. “He’s one of the best dancers I’ve seen in years,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Maks just doesn’t like new energy on the show.”
Still, some viewers agreed with Maks’s take, suggesting that DWTS has shifted in tone over the years, bringing in flashier performers instead of ballroom specialists. They argue that the show’s magic lies in its roots — the traditional ballroom and Latin techniques that first made it a global phenomenon. “It’s not about being a pop star backup dancer,” another user commented. “It’s about ballroom integrity.”
What makes Maks’s comments even more interesting is his long history with the show. A DWTS veteran who joined in Season 2, he became both loved and notorious for his fiery personality and competitive spirit. His insights often reflect a deep understanding of the show’s evolution — from its classic ballroom origins to its current, celebrity-driven spectacle. So when he calls someone out, it tends to come from a place of passion for the art form, not just controversy.
On the other side, Jan Ravnik has remained quiet about the remarks. He’s focused on his DWTS performances, which have so far received positive feedback from both judges and fans. Many viewers have praised his style, creativity, and ability to adapt quickly to the show’s unique demands — a sign that, despite criticism, he’s winning over the audience.
In recent seasons, DWTS has introduced several pros with backgrounds outside traditional ballroom dancing, reflecting the growing influence of pop culture and viral media on the show. Some believe this evolution has kept the franchise relevant, while others — like Maks — think it’s diluting its core identity. Whether Ravnik’s presence represents progress or departure depends on how one defines the spirit of Dancing with the Stars.
At the heart of the discussion is a familiar debate: what does it really mean to be a “pro”? Is it about technical ballroom mastery, or the ability to entertain millions in a new era of television dance? For now, both sides have valid points — and the conversation itself is keeping DWTS buzz alive well beyond the dance floor.
