Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy are absolute powerhouses in the ballroom. As “Dancing With the Stars” prepares for another season, the professional dancers are reflecting on their futures with the show.
Both Val and Jenna have Mirrorball trophies of their own. This year, they both have celebrity dance partners with prior experience. Plenty of fans believe they might go head to head in the season 35 finale.
But as their dance careers grow, the couple is also exploring other avenues. They’re both making appearances in the “R.J. Decker” season 2 premiere in September.
Will they continue forward with “Dancing With the Stars?”
Jenna Johnson Reflects on Her Major Career Milestones
Us Weekly recently spoke with Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy about their major career milestones throughout their lives in the public eye. The outlet discussed Jenna’s 10-year anniversary with “Dancing With the Stars,” which she admitted she had forgotten.
“Thanks for reminding me, because I didn’t even know,” Jenna told Us Weekly. “I think it’s great to have those milestones and to remember them and see how far you’ve actually come.”
“I’ve just learned so much from ‘Dancing With the Stars,'” the 32-year-old explained. “Honestly, from the people I’ve been surrounded with. So from producers to camera directors to our glam team to wardrobe. I feel like they have all raised me since I joined the show when I was 19 years old and they are the best family I could have ever asked for.”
Jenna Johnson is partnering with “Grey’s Anatomy” star Harry Shum Jr. for season 35. She noted how “invigorated” she feels ahead of the premiere and how she hopes to choreograph and perform for at least another decade.
Val Chmerkovskiy Wants to Keep Dancing for ‘Decades’
As the younger brother of ballroom legend Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Val Chmerkovskiy has worked incredibly hard to forge his own path in the dance world. Even after joining “Dancing With the Stars” two decades ago, Val looks forward to the future.
“What’s interesting is I’ve obviously changed so much, but my approach and my passion for what I’m doing hasn’t changed at all,” the 40-year-old told Us Weekly. “I have the same figure for showing up to set what I love and the same gratitude.”
This year, he’s paired with “Step Up” star Jenna Dewan. Many fans believe they’re primed to take home the Mirrorball trophy this year.
Val Chmerkovskiy agreed with his wife, noting that he also wants to compete for several more years. But more than that, he loves being part of such a special series that is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
“Obviously, the show has enjoyed being a top show for many years,” Val explained. “But I feel like we’ve just exploded into the center of culture right now. We are the water cooler conversation amongst kids and adults.”
Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson take the floor when “Dancing With the Stars” season 35 premieres at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15 on ABC. Fans can catch their “R.J. Decker” cameo immediately after at 10 p.m.
