How Long Has Val Been On Dancing With The Stars

So, you’re wondering how long the one and only Val Chmerkovskiy has been shaking his hips on Dancing With the Stars, right? Grab a snack and get comfy, because this guy’s journey is basically the soap opera of ballroom. Spoiler alert: He’s been around long enough to make the show’s glitter cannon feel jealous.

The Rookie Year That Started It All

Val first waltzed onto our screens way back in Season 13—that’s 2011, people. Yes, in the age of skinny jeans and early Instagram filters, Val was just a baby-faced pro with a dream and a spray tan budget. He was paired with the lovely Elisabetta Canalis, and while they didn’t win (shocker), he definitely left an impression.

But here’s the thing: Val wasn’t even the headlining Chmerkovskiy back then. His older brother, Maks, was the family’s grumpy-sweetheart champion. Val was simply the kid brother trying to earn his place in the mirrorball shadow.

Fast forward a few seasons, and Val went from “Maks’ little brother” to the guy everyone wanted as a partner. He’s now a four-time mirrorball champion, which is basically like being the LeBron James of foxtrot. Not bad for a guy who once got critiqued for his “too intense” gaze.

The Winning Streak: Val’s Superpower

Let’s talk about those wins, because they’re not just lucky charms. Val snagged his first trophy in Season 20 with the incredible Rumer Willis. That win felt like a coming of age moment—suddenly, he wasn’t just Maks’ sibling; he was a ballroom boss.

Then he did it again with Laurie Hernandez in Season 23. And then again with Normani Kordei in Season 24. (Yes, he won twice in a row, which is basically the show’s version of a backflip into a victory lap.) Most recently, he took the crown with Xochitl Gomez in Season 32, proving he still has the moves.

So, how long has he been on? Technically, from 2011 to 2024, that’s 13 seasons as a pro. That’s longer than some marriages last! He’s also dipped in and out for a few special seasons, like the all-star reboot, because who can resist a little more Val?

The Years He Took a Break (And Why We Missed Him)

Now, Val isn’t a robot. He’s taken a couple of seasons off to do other cool things—like choreographing for world tours and, you know, becoming a dad. He and his wife, Jenna Johnson (another DWTS pro), welcomed their son, Rome, in 2023. So he’s juggling diaper changes and dance rehearsals. Absolute legend.

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During those off seasons, the show felt a little like a pizza without cheese. Sure, it’s still good, but you’re definitely missing that one essential ingredient. Fans constantly tweeted “#BringBackVal” like it was a political movement.

And the show listened! He always comes back, like a boomerang coated in sequins. This year, for Season 33, he’s back and ready to teach a new celebrity the difference between a cha-cha and a panic attack.

How Long Exactly? Let’s Do the Math

As of 2024, Val has been a pro on more than 15 seasons over the past 13 years. That’s over a decade of his life spent teaching non-dancers how to not look like flailing giraffes. He’s been on the show longer than some celebrities have been alive.

Ironically, he started as the young, eager guy and is now considered one of the “veterans.” He’s the wise old wizard of the ballroom, except instead of a beard, he has perfectly styled hair and a charm that could sell ice to a penguin.

If you count every season he’s competed in, from Season 13 to now, it’s roughly 13 years of professional Val. That’s longer than most reality TV shows last in their entire run.

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The Secret to His Longevity

Why has Val lasted so long while other pros fade into the sunset? Simple: he’s both spicy and sweet. One minute he’s yelling about technique (in a passionate, not scary way), and the next he’s giving his partner a heartfelt hug. He’s the human embodiment of “tough love with a soft spot.”

Plus, he’s a choreography genius. Whether it’s a samba that makes you want to learn Portuguese or a contemporary piece that makes you cry into your popcorn, Val delivers. The producers know he’s a ratings magnet, so they keep inviting him back.

And let’s not forget the family drama. Having Maks as a brother means there’s always a potential for hilarious sibling rivalry. It’s basically the Hallmark movie of professional ballroom, but with more glitter.

So, What’s the Final Answer?

If you want a tidy number: Val Chmerkovskiy has been on Dancing With the Stars for 13 years and counting. He’s outlasted three different hosts, countless fashion trends, and probably a few bouffant hairstyles.

He’s not just a contestant; he’s a pillar of the show. When you think of DWTS, you think of Val doing a dramatic lift while staring into the camera like he’s thinking about dinner. It’s iconic.

And honestly? We hope he never leaves. Because a world without Val’s smirks and perfect promenades is a world that’s a little less shiny. Rock on, Val. You beautiful, sequined machine.