Maksim Chmerkovskiy is a passionate person. He lets that shine through, whether it’s on the dance floor or in his personal life. The former “Dancing With the Stars” pro not only built a reputation for his steamy routines on the show, but also for those relationships that happened to unfold in the spotlight. We take a look at Maks’ romance history, including five fast facts you just need to know.
1. A ‘DWTS’ Engagement
Before Maks found his lasting love, he had a serious relationship with fellow “Dancing With the Stars” pro dancer Karina Smirnoff. The couple was even engaged in 2009, making them one of the show’s earliest power couples.
However, their romance didn’t last, and the engagement was called off later that year because of a difference in their thoughts on children, PEOPLE reported.
2. A Rocky Start
Also in 2009, Chmerkovskiy first met Peta Murgatroyd while performing on Broadway in “Burn the Floor.” However, romance didn’t spark right away for these two.
Years later, they reconnected on “Dancing With the Stars” and started dating in 2012. Their first relationship was short-lived, though, ending in 2013. They were together less than a year, but their connection clearly lingered beneath the surface.
3. The Second Time It Stuck
In 2014, Maks and Peta decided to give their relationship another chance. It worked, as they reunited stronger and more certain about their future.
In December 2015, Chmerkovskiy proposed during a live performance of “Sway: A Dance Trilogy.” He turned a professional moment into a deeply personal one.
4. Other Rumored Relationships
Like many reality TV stars, Maks has been linked to other romantic interests over the years. Especially when it comes to “DWTS,” it seems like rumors fly around every season about the pro and their partner dating.
Chmerkovskiy has not found himself to be immune to those rumors. Those rumors include a possible relationship with supermodel Kate Upton. The couple was rumored to be together in 2013, but nothing was ever confirmed.
Maks was paired with Hope Solo during season 13. Things were rocky between this pairing. However, reports at the time suggested they had a possible off-camera relationship.
The dancer has also been linked to “America’s Got Talent” judge Mel B, who was his partner during season 5. The pair were rumored to have a close relationship beyond just the ballroom. However, it was never fully confirmed.
In 2025, Maks confirmed that he did have a real romantic relationship with one of his celebrity partners over the years, SWOON reported. He declined to name who it was, but he did say that the situation was a “mistake.”
5. Life After the Ballroom
In July 2017, Maks and Peta tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in New York. This marriage cemented their status as one of the show’s most enduring love stories.
The couple has gone on to welcome three children together: Shai Aleksander in early 2017, Rio John in June 2023, and Milan in July 2024. They have shared both joyful milestones and difficult moments over the years, including fertility struggles, but all while remaining publicly supportive of each other.
