Maksim Chmerkovskiy Reportedly Leaving Dancing with the Stars to Pursue Film and TV

Entertainment news outlets are reporting that professional dancer Maksim Chmerkovskiy will not return to Dancing with the Stars for the upcoming spring season. Sources indicate Maksim has informed producers of his decision and intends to shift his focus toward opportunities in film and television.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy’s days of sequin unitards are OVER … ’cause TMZ has learned the Bad Boy of the Ballroom is officially leaving “Dancing with the Stars.”

Sources close to the production tell us … Maksim spoke with producers a few days ago and informed them that he wouldn’t be returning for the upcoming season.

FYI — the 33-year-old dancer has been on the show since Season 2 (2006) … and partnered up with stars like Misty May, Laila Ali, Erin Andrews, Kirstie Alley and Mel B.

We’re told Maksim wants to stay in the entertainment world … and is currently pursuing movie and TV projects.

As for Maksim’s brother Val — we’re told he WILL return to the show … so don’t worry America, you’ll still get your Chmerkovskiy fix.

From Ballroom to the Screen

Maksim Chmerkovskiy became a household name through his long tenure on Dancing with the Stars, beginning in the show’s early seasons. Known for a bold stage presence and a persona often described as the “Bad Boy of the Ballroom,” he danced with a wide range of celebrity partners over the years, including athletes, actors, and television personalities. That experience and visibility on a high-profile series have positioned him to explore other parts of the entertainment industry.

According to the report, the dancer’s decision to step away from the competition series is motivated by a desire to broaden his creative horizons. Pursuing film and television roles would represent a natural transition for a performer with on-camera experience and a public profile. While details about specific projects or timelines were not provided in the report, the move would align with similar career shifts made by other reality-television alumni who have gone on to act, produce, or appear in scripted and unscripted projects.

What This Means for the Show

For fans of Dancing with the Stars, the departure of a longstanding professional can signal change in the show’s chemistry and choreography dynamics. Producers often refresh the professional roster from season to season, and departures create chances for new talent to step into the spotlight. The report also notes that Maksim’s brother, Val Chmerkovskiy, is expected to return, meaning viewers will still see a familiar Chmerkovskiy presence on the ballroom floor.

Longtime viewers may remember Maksim for his high-energy routines and memorable partnerships with public figures such as Misty May, Laila Ali, Erin Andrews, Kirstie Alley, and Mel B. His absence will likely be felt by fans who appreciated his particular style and theatrical approach to choreography and performance.

Fan Reaction and Next Steps

Reactions to news of a departure from a show like Dancing with the Stars typically vary from disappointment to excitement for the performer’s next act. Some fans will miss seeing Maksim on the competition stage, while others will follow his future endeavors in film and television. If he pursues acting or on-screen projects, his fan base from the dance world could provide a strong initial audience for whatever comes next.

At this time the information comes from entertainment reporting and has not been accompanied by a detailed public statement from Maksim himself, so observers will be watching for any official announcements, casting news, or updates about the timing and nature of his planned projects.

Final Thoughts

Maksim Chmerkovskiy’s reported decision to leave Dancing with the Stars marks the end of a notable chapter in his career and the start of a potential new one in film and television. While the show adapts to roster changes each season, viewers who have followed Maksim’s work for years will likely be interested in tracking his next steps. With his experience, charisma, and industry visibility, a transition into screen roles could present an appealing and logical progression for his career.