Maksim Chmerkovskiy Gets Real About Dance Chemistry and Kirstie Alley’s Flirty Comments
Maksim Chmerkovskiy, the charismatic pro from “Dancing With the Stars,” is shedding light on the fine line between dancing and flirting. On a recent episode of the “Sibling Revelry” podcast with his brother Val, Maksim recounted a moment with the late Kirstie Alley that sparked a discussion on the relationship dynamics between dance partners. Apparently, Alley playfully accused him of being “so flirty” during their rehearsals—something that Maksim insists is purely a professional necessity. “Listen, if it’s a lift that’s dope,” he said, “touching potentially intimate areas on your partner’s body is okay, even necessary.” But don’t misinterpret it as romantic chemistry.
Chmerkovskiy clarified that when he’s lifting or maneuvering his partner, it’s all about technique—not romance. “It’s not because I love you that much, you know? I gotta move you,” he joked, referencing their work on seasons 12 and 15 of the ABC dance competition. In fact, their partnership took them to the finals, where they came just shy of glory, finishing behind Hines Ward and Kym Johnson.
Kirstie Alley, who sadly passed away in December 2022 after a private battle with cancer, was a vibrant personality both on-screen and off. Following her death, Maksim took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute, expressing how much she meant to him both personally and professionally. Their dynamic was rooted in years of competitive dance, something Chmerkovskiy credits for diffusing any perceived sexual tension.
Growing up in Soviet Ukraine, the Chmerkovskiy brothers started dancing at a young age, learning to navigate the close proximity required in dance without the “flirty” implications. It turns out, when you’ve been in that close of contact since childhood, hugging your partner close for a complex lift is just part of the job. As for jealousy? Maksim claims he’s got none, as long as it’s all in the name of dance.
Considering the competitive landscape of “Dancing With the Stars,” where the latest season saw Bachelor alum Joey Graziadei and pro Jenna Johnson take the trophy, drama behind the scenes is a given. By the way, did you know this season was a first for a male Bachelor to even make it to the semi-finals? Talk about breaking barriers!
It’s all in a day’s work for Maksim, who has made a name for himself through his talent on the dance floor and his knack for navigating the tricky waters of professional partnerships. But let’s be honest—whether it’s lift techniques or flirty banter, Maksim keeps us all entertained.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, E! Online, Daily Mail
