The “Dancing with the Stars” family is leaning on one another in the wake of a colleague’s death. Michael Wentink, a former judge from “Strictly Come Dancing,” has died at the age of 46. Shirley Ballas, who has appeared on “Dancing with the Stars” as well as “Strictly Come Dancing,” and is the mother of current season 34 pro Mark Ballas, shared a beautiful tribute to Wentink after learning of his death.
Several others within the “Dancing with the Stars” family shared their condolences on her social media post.
Shirley Ballas Was Very Close to Michael Wentink for Years
On October 4, Wentink’s partner Ralf Lepehne took to Facebook to announce his death. “With the heaviest of hearts, we share the sad news that our beloved Michael Wentink has passed away. He left us far too soon, and the loss is immeasurable,” Lepehne wrote.
The tribute continued, “To the world, Michael was a true legend of Latin dance—a champion, an artist, and an inspiration to so many. He moved with a power and grace that left audiences breathless; a master of his art who commanded the stage with a fiery passion.”
Ballas shared an emotional post about Wentink via Instagram on October 6. She wrote, “Feeling very sad this morning, after the loss of our dear friend and true industry legend, Michael Wentink.” Ballas acknowledged that she wasn’t sure where even to begin when it came to honoring her friend and colleague.
Several DWTS Stars Sent Their Love & Support to Ballas in the Wake of the Loss
Ballas explained, “Michael wasn’t just part of my life, he was like family.” She lauded his “kind, caring soul who brought so much joy, warmth, and laughter into our lives.”
She also noted his irreplaceable smile along with his unmatched love and loyalty. He spent a lot of time at the Ballas household over the years and was “one of the kindest souls I’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with.”
Former “Dancing with the Stars” professional dancer Kim Herjavec commented on Ballas’ post, writing, “So heart breaking.”
Another former “Dancing with the Stars” pro, Louis Van Amstel, added, “Beautiful words in a very sad situation.”
Season 34 “Dancing with the Stars” pro Gleb Savchenko, who is competing with Hilaria Baldwin, left a string of broken-heart emojis on Ballas’ Instagram post. Julianne Hough, who spent years living and training with the Ballas family in England, “liked” the Instagram post as a show of support.
Fellow dancers and fans of Ballas also shared touching comments to honor Wentink.
“Rest in peace. I can remember watching him on tape and loving the power & grace,” one fan wrote.
Another shared, “What a routine and pair you were! So inspirational. Sending love to you darling.”
As Wentink’s IMDb page indicates, the dancer competed on season 1 of “Strictly Come Dancing,” and returned as a judge for episodes in seasons 6 through 8.
