‘DWTS’ Pro Val Chmerkovskiy Criticizes ‘Next Pro’ Contestant’s Arrogance: A Major Turn-Off

Val Chmerkovskiy Calls Out ‘Next Pro’ Contestant’s Arrogance

Val Chmerkovskiy, a veteran professional dancer on ABC’s hit show “Dancing With The Stars” (DWTS), recently voiced his disapproval of AJ Pritchard, a contestant on the spin-off competition “Next Pro.” During an episode of his podcast “Stepping On Toes,” co-hosted with Danielle Fishel, Chmerkovskiy described Pritchard’s behavior as overly arrogant, labeling it a “huge turn-off” for both viewers and fellow dancers.

Pritchard, who previously danced professionally on the BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing” from 2016 to 2019, has brought considerable experience to the floor. However, Chmerkovskiy emphasized that past accomplishments don’t guarantee success in the current competition. He urged Pritchard to shed his overconfidence and focus on proving himself in the present moment.

Behind the Scenes: What Sparked the Criticism?

The tension came to light during the latest episode of “Next Pro,” where Pritchard was paired with partner Serena Hamilton. The duo performed a jive routine inspired by Pritchard’s 2015 British Open Dance Championship win, often dubbed the “Wimbledon of dance.” While the performance showcased their skills, it was Pritchard’s demeanor offstage that drew Chmerkovskiy’s ire.

In a rehearsal clip, Pritchard was seen using his foot to push Hamilton’s hips back to correct her steps — an action Chmerkovskiy called disrespectful and a “huge turn-off.” He warned that such behavior is unlikely to win over judges or audiences, who tend to appreciate humility and teamwork over arrogance.

Chmerkovskiy explained, “If you are going to show up, you gotta have humility in the sense that you got to prove yourself right now.” He acknowledged Pritchard’s pedigree but stressed that resting on past laurels won’t secure a win in this competition.

Val Chmerkovskiy’s Legacy on ‘Dancing With The Stars’

Val Chmerkovskiy is no stranger to the competitive dance world. Since joining DWTS in Season 13 back in 2011, he has competed in 20 seasons and earned the coveted Mirrorball Trophy three times with partners Rumer Willis, Laurie Hernandez, and Xochitl Gomez. His experience and success have made him a respected figure in the dance community.

In the most recent Season 34, Chmerkovskiy and his partner Alix Earle finished in second place, demonstrating his continued relevance and skill in the competition. His insights into the “Next Pro” contestants carry weight given his extensive background and firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed on the DWTS stage.

What This Means for ‘Next Pro’ and Its Contestants

“Next Pro” is a platform designed to discover new professional dancers who will eventually compete on DWTS Season 35. The winner earns a coveted spot as a pro on the main show, making the competition fierce and the stakes high.

Chmerkovskiy’s critique serves as a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough; attitude and professionalism are equally important. Contestants like Pritchard must balance confidence with humility to resonate with judges, partners, and viewers alike.

The show airs Monday nights at 8 P.M. ET on ABC, and fans eagerly watch to see who will rise to the challenge and who might falter due to personal shortcomings like arrogance.

Why Humility Matters in Competitive Dance

Dance competitions are as much about collaboration and respect as they are about technical skill. A dancer’s attitude can influence not only their partner’s performance but also how judges and audiences perceive them.

Val Chmerkovskiy’s comments highlight a broader lesson: humility fosters growth and connection, while arrogance can alienate and hinder success. For contestants on “Next Pro,” embracing this mindset could be the key to winning the Mirrorball Trophy in the future.

Conclusion

Val Chmerkovskiy’s candid remarks about AJ Pritchard’s arrogance on “Next Pro” underscore the importance of humility and respect in the competitive dance world. While experience and talent are crucial, maintaining a positive attitude and strong partnership is essential to winning over judges and audiences. As “Next Pro” continues to showcase rising stars aiming for a spot on “Dancing With The Stars,” contestants should take Chmerkovskiy’s advice to heart and focus on proving themselves with grace and professionalism.

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