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- Savchenko says he “wasn’t attacking” Bersten after TikTok comments
- What prompted the controversy: Chmerkovskiy’s suspension and a last-minute switch
- From choreography to TV appeal: Savchenko’s critique
- How Bersten and Dewan performed under pressure
- Responses from the cast and media
- Judge reaction and the social-media spark
- Quick timeline: key moments in the episode and the controversy
- Behind-the-scenes dynamics and what fans are watching
Gleb Savchenko pushed back after remarks about Alan Bersten replacing Val Chmerkovskiy on Dancing with the Stars. The exchange has stirred debate among fans and insiders. Savchenko says his critique came from a dancer’s viewpoint, not personal animus, while the show navigates a suspension and a high-stakes live performance.
Savchenko says he “wasn’t attacking” Bersten after TikTok comments
On a recent TikTok livestream, Savchenko addressed the fallout from his comments. He insisted he wasn’t launching a personal attack. Instead, he framed his words as an honest, professional assessment.
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Savchenko suggested that dancers bring different strengths to the ballroom. He described Bersten as talented for his style, but said that style differs from Val Chmerkovskiy’s technique and artistic approach. “Not talking trash,” he told followers, while also maintaining that comparisons are difficult.
What prompted the controversy: Chmerkovskiy’s suspension and a last-minute switch
Val Chmerkovskiy was briefly suspended after a social media post that referenced a past Oscars incident involving Will Smith. Producers announced a one-week suspension, and the show needed a stand-in for Val’s celebrity partner, Jenna Dewan.
Pro dancer Alan Bersten was tapped to fill the slot for “Dedication Night.” The decision sparked public commentary from former and current pros, including Savchenko, who questioned whether another troupe dancer might have been a better fit.
From choreography to TV appeal: Savchenko’s critique
Savchenko drew a line between TV-ready routines and what he calls artful dance. He suggested Bersten excels in broadcast-friendly performances. But he argued that craft and artistic depth are different skills.
- Technical style: Savchenko emphasized variation in training and technique.
- Artistic intent: He said some pros focus more on storytelling and musicality.
- Fit for partner: He wondered if a troupe member could better mirror Dewan’s strengths.
He repeated that his remarks were professional, not personal, and that he respects Bersten’s contributions to the show.
How Bersten and Dewan performed under pressure
With limited rehearsal time, Bersten danced with Jenna Dewan on the televised episode. Their Viennese waltz to “Unchained Melody” earned a strong reception from the judges.
The pair scored 37 out of 40. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba awarded a 10 and praised Dewan’s emotional delivery. Inaba told Dewan she delivered a breakthrough night and commended her openness onstage.
Responses from the cast and media
Savchenko later spoke with Page Six. He reiterated that his viewpoint was that of a professional dancer. He said he values Bersten and that his comments were about how the pairing might look, not about personal dislike.
Meanwhile, Chmerkovskiy publicly apologized to Inaba for his social media reference. BBC Studios moved to suspend him for one week, and he watched the show from home during his absence.
Judge reaction and the social-media spark
The suspension followed a chain of criticism on the show. After Inaba critiqued a performance by Chmerkovskiy’s wife, Jenna Johnson, Val responded online with a reference to the 2022 Oscars incident. Inaba addressed the post on Instagram Stories, signaling that tensions had escalated.
Quick timeline: key moments in the episode and the controversy
- Chmerkovskiy receives criticism after his wife’s dance is judged.
- Val posts a comment referencing the Will Smith–Chris Rock incident.
- BBC Studios issues a one-week suspension for Chmerkovskiy.
- Alan Bersten steps in to partner with Jenna Dewan for Dedication Night.
- Bersten and Dewan score 37/40 for their Viennese waltz.
- Savchenko voices professional concerns on TikTok and to media outlets.
- Page Six reports Chmerkovskiy’s suspension is lifted and he returns to rehearsals.
Behind-the-scenes dynamics and what fans are watching
Pro dancers rarely comment publicly about casting decisions. That made Savchenko’s remarks notable. Fans are parsing whether the debate is about style, fairness, or show optics.
Producers must balance rehearsal time, viewer expectations, and the chemistry between partners. The incident highlights how quickly on-air drama can spill into social media and press coverage.
