Behind the Glitter: The Love Stories and Hook-Up Rumors of Dancing with the Stars Contestants
There are many reasons why Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) has captivated audiences over the years. From the jaw-dropping dance routines to the glittery costumes, the show brings a unique blend of entertainment that keeps viewers coming back week after week. But beyond the glitz and glamour, one of the most exciting elements of DWTS is the behind-the-scenes drama—specifically, the hook-up rumors and real-life romances that blossom from these high-energy partnerships.
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Although it’s easy to get caught up in the drama of the dance floor, it’s the off-screen chemistry that tends to get fans talking long after the final curtain falls. Whether it’s the quick flings or the lasting relationships, there’s something irresistible about the idea that love can bloom in such a high-pressure environment. And when those rumored relationships are confirmed, fans lose it—because who doesn’t love a good romance, especially when it’s unexpected?
Gleb Savchenko & Brooks Nader: A Passionate Rollercoaster
During DWTS season 33, pro dancer Gleb Savchenko and model Brooks Nader’s chemistry was undeniable, sparking rumors almost immediately. As early as September 27, 2024, sources confirmed the couple was hooking up. Their romance was casual at first, with insiders saying they were just “having fun.”
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Their relationship quickly went public, with the two showing affection on social media and even getting matching tattoos. They weren’t shy about their connection, even licking each other during a dance number on the show. But the romance hit a bump when Nader was eliminated during week four. Despite the elimination, Gleb didn’t hold back, telling Brooks after her departure, “I love you. You are super talented.”
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However, shortly after, their whirlwind romance came to an end. According to reports, Brooks grew uncomfortable with the intensity of their relationship, especially after Gleb spent too much time at her home. This resulted in her pulling away, and the couple eventually split. They reconciled briefly but parted ways again in April 2025. Nader reportedly suspected Gleb of cheating, and according to him, he only found out about the breakup when he read it online.
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Despite the heartache, Gleb wished Brooks the best moving forward, leaving fans wondering if the pair would ever rekindle their romance.
Daniel Durant & Britt Stewart: A Love Story That Sparked on Valentine’s Day
Actor Daniel Durant, best known for his role in CODA, found love with his DWTS season 31 partner, Britt Stewart. On Valentine’s Day 2023, Durant made it official, sharing a selfie of the two together on Instagram with the caption, “My Valentine. ♥️.”
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Their relationship blossomed from there, and in December 2023, Durant proposed to Britt in a beautiful, emotional moment that felt like something out of a fairytale. “It felt like magic,” Britt said in an interview with People, adding that the proposal was a peaceful and joyous experience.
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The couple has been inseparable ever since, with their relationship growing stronger each day. Their bond is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the right person can come into your life when you least expect it—on the dance floor, no less.
Alan Bersten & Alexis Ren: A Brief but Intense Affair
In season 27 of DWTS, professional dancer Alan Bersten and model Alexis Ren couldn’t keep their hands off each other. Their undeniable chemistry led to a passionate romance that lasted just under a year, from October 2018 to August 2019. The couple’s fiery relationship quickly turned heads, but it didn’t stand the test of time.
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Despite the public display of affection throughout the season, the romance eventually fizzled out. Though their time together was brief, their on-screen connection had fans wondering if it was more than just a showmance. The pair parted ways but left behind memories of an intense, whirlwind relationship.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy & Peta Murgatroyd: A Fairytale Romance
Some DWTS romances are meant to last, and Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd’s relationship is one of the most enduring. The pair started dating in 2012 and, after years of ups and downs, got engaged in 2015. They tied the knot in 2017 and welcomed their first son, Shai, the same year.Getty Im
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Their relationship has only grown stronger over time, and in 2023, they welcomed their second child, a son named Milan. Their love story is the epitome of a DWTS fairytale romance that has stood the test of time, proving that sometimes, love does waltz its way into your life when you least expect it.
Shannon Elizabeth & Derek Hough: A Short-Lived Romance
Shannon Elizabeth, star of American Pie, couldn’t resist the charm of DWTS pro Derek Hough. The pair dated for over a year, from 2008 to 2009, after their pairing on season six of the show. Their romance was passionate but short-lived, and they eventually went their separate ways.
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Though their relationship didn’t last, they both went on to find success in their careers and other relationships. Despite the end of their romance, fans still remember their chemistry and the excitement they brought to the DWTS stage.
Artem Chigvintsev & Nikki Bella: From Dancing Partners to Life Partners
One of the most heartwarming DWTS romances is that of Artem Chigvintsev and Nikki Bella. The couple started dating in 2019, after their partnership on season 25 in 2017. At the time, Bella was engaged to WWE superstar John Cena, but the two called off their engagement, which paved the way for her relationship with Artem.
Variety
The couple welcomed their son, Matteo, in 2020, and tied the knot in 2022. However, their relationship faced a rocky patch in 2024 when Artem was arrested for domestic violence. The situation led to a temporary split, but the couple worked through their issues. Their relationship, though tumultuous at times, remains one of the most talked-about in DWTS history.
Robert Herjavec & Kym Johnson: A Love That Surpassed the Dance Floor
Business tycoon Robert Herjavec and DWTS pro dancer Kym Johnson didn’t take long to fall in love after partnering on season 20 in 2015. Their connection was undeniable, and they quickly became one of the most beloved couples in DWTS history. The couple married in 2016 and welcomed two children, Hudson and Haven.
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Their love story continues to inspire DWTS fans, proving that sometimes the best things come when you least expect them—like love on the dance floor.
Mario Lopez & Karina Smirnoff: A Fiery Yet Brief Romance
Mario Lopez and Karina Smirnoff’s chemistry on DWTS was palpable from the moment they were paired together in 2006. The two went on to date for two years, experiencing ups and downs, including a painful breakup after Mario’s infidelity. Despite their split, their time together on the dance floor remains one of DWTS’s most memorable moments.
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Though their romance ended in heartbreak, both have since moved on, with Mario marrying Courtney Mazza in 2012 and Karina continuing her career in dance and television.
Mark Ballas & Sabrina Bryan: Love on the Dance Floor
Mark Ballas and Sabrina Bryan’s romance was one of DWTS’s most memorable love stories. The two were paired together in season five, and their chemistry quickly turned into a romance. They dated throughout the season, but their relationship ultimately ended due to their busy schedules.
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Their time together remains one of the show’s most romantic partnerships, and despite the breakup, their bond on the dance floor was undeniable. Fans still remember their electric performances and the chemistry they shared.
Chuck Wicks & Julianne Hough: A Fiery Relationship That Burned Out
Country singer Chuck Wicks and DWTS pro Julianne Hough had a brief but intense romance that started before their time on the show. They came in sixth place during season 8, but their relationship ended in 2009. Despite their passionate performances and chemistry, the couple went their separate ways that same year.
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Their relationship, though short, remains a fan favorite due to their undeniable chemistry on the dance floor.
Karina Smirnoff & Maksim Chmerkovskiy: The Engaged Pair Who Called It Off
DWTS pros Karina Smirnoff and Maksim Chmerkovskiy had a whirlwind romance that captured the hearts of fans. The two got engaged on New Year’s Eve in 2008, but their relationship ended in September 2009 when they called off their wedding.
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Their romance may have been brief, but it was intense, and fans still talk about the chemistry they shared during their time together on the show.
Emma Slater & Sasha Farber: A Love Story with a Rocky End
DWTS dancers Emma Slater and Sasha Farber had an on-again, off-again relationship for several years. However, in 2016, Sasha popped the question during a live DWTS broadcast, and the two were married in early 2018. Unfortunately, their marriage hit a rough patch, and the couple separated in 2022.
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Though their relationship didn’t have a happy ending, the love they shared was undeniable, and their time together on the show will always be remembered by fans.
The Romance of Dancing with the Stars Is Just as Captivating as the Dance
From whirlwind romances to brief flings, Dancing with the Stars has seen its fair share of love stories, both on and off the dance floor. While some couples have gone on to live happily ever after, others have faced heartbreak and separation. Regardless of the outcome, the behind-the-scenes romances on DWTS are part of what makes the show so captivating. The glitz and glamour may get our attention, but it’s the love stories that keep us coming back for more
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Whether the relationships last or not, the connections formed during the intense, passionate atmosphere of DWTS remind us that love can strike in the most unexpected places—even on the dance floor.
