Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson Discuss Their Future on DWTS
Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson are reflecting on their respective futures with Dancing With the Stars after achieving significant milestones in their careers.
“Thanks for the reminder, because I actually forgot,” Johnson, 32, joked about her 10-year anniversary as a professional dancer during an exclusive chat with Us on the set of RJ Decker, where the DWTS professionals were making an appearance. “It’s fantastic to have these milestones, to acknowledge them, and to recognize how far you’ve come.”
Johnson expressed her appreciation for the time she has spent on DWTS to date.
“I’ve gained so much knowledge from Dancing With the Stars — truly, from all the incredible people I’ve been surrounded by. From producers and camera directors to our glam team and wardrobe,” she shared. “I feel like they’ve all guided me since I joined the show at 19. They are the best family I could have ever hoped for.”
She added: “I feel more invigorated this season. I’m eagerly anticipating it. There’s a spark within me. … I’m thrilled. I feel genuinely inspired. I love choreographing and creating. I want to keep doing that for another decade.”
Chmerkovskiy, 40, also feels optimistic about his career after making his debut as a student dancer on DWTS two decades ago.
“I recall back then. It’s fascinating to see how much I’ve evolved, but my approach and passion for my work remain unchanged,” he remarked to Us. “I still have that same excitement when I arrive on set and an immense gratitude for the journey.”
Looking ahead, Chmerkovskiy confidently stated he “definitely” has “another 20 years” in him, saying, “The show has maintained its popularity for so many years, but I feel we are now at the heart of the culture. We’re the topic of conversation among both kids and adults.”
The couple, married since 2019, expressed their excitement about being part of this “very special time” for DWTS, which is kicking off its 35th season this month.
“The last two seasons have truly elevated our show and exceeded what we thought possible,” Johnson said, with Chmerkovskiy adding, “It’s a unique gift for us to be involved. We are, like, a cool show.”
As they ponder the future of DWTS, the options appear limitless.
“I would love to see an episode at The Hollywood Bowl. I feel like we’re ready for that,” Johnson proposed. “This is an opportunity we never imagined would be within our reach. This year, we’ve collaborated with Project Runway, and there’s a spinoff featuring The Next Pro show. We performed at the Disney Upfronts. There have been so many wonderful opportunities, and I’m honored to represent the brand with all my heart. I genuinely love this show and am grateful for the chances I’ve had.”
Chmerkovskiy expressed similar feelings. “They’re proud of us. Now we’re hanging out with the cool kids. It’s a fascinating time for us to be recognized and celebrated at this level. I’m just embracing it all,” he mentioned. “We’re so, so happy and grateful to be part of the network in any way we can.”
The couple’s collaboration with ABC continues when the network’s popular series RJ Decker features a crossover with DWTS in its season 2 premiere.
In an exclusive sneak peek for Us, RJ (Scott Speedman) faces a variety of new cases while the professional dancers showcase their moves. (Johnson’s previous celebrity partner Joey Graziadei — with whom she won season 33 — also appears in a scripted role in the episode.)
“We actually had limited time to perfect our performance because we were also rehearsing with Dancing With the Stars. But when this opportunity came up, it was an obvious yes,” Johnson shared. “It’s so different from what we’re accustomed to that we eagerly jumped at the chance to be part of it artistically.”
She continued: “Plus, I’m a huge fan of such shows. I love PI shows. Seeing the lead actor, Scott Speedman, perform alongside Joey has been an absolute blast. I’m really proud of Joey for diving into acting.”
Regarding future DWTS participants, both Chmerkovskiy and Johnson showed their support for Speedman and his RJ Decker colleagues. (Speedman plays the titular role, with Jaina Lee Ortiz, Kevin Rankin, Adelaide Clemens and Bevin Bru completing the cast.)
“If Scott wants to join Dancing With the Stars, we would be thrilled to have him,” Johnson told Us, while Chmerkovskiy added, “I can picture him jumping over the barrier to the camera. He definitely has the moves and charisma to be a fantastic dancer.”
Dancing With the Stars will premiere with a two-night event on ABC and Disney+ starting Tuesday, September 15, at 8 p.m. ET. RJ Decker returns on Tuesday, September 15, at 10 p.m. ET.
