Professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy has voiced strong criticism regarding the attitude of British reality star AJ Pritchard during the summer series of Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro. Chmerkovskiy, a three-time champion of the main Dancing with the Stars competition, described Pritchard’s demeanor as “arrogant” and suggested it detracted from the show’s appeal.
Chmerkovskiy’s Critique of Pritchard’s Demeanor
Speaking on his podcast, Stepping on Toes, Chmerkovskiy, 40, specifically addressed interactions between Pritchard, 31, and his dance partner Selena Hamilton, 21. “I wish he wrapped that arrogance into a little softer presentation,” Chmerkovskiy stated. “It makes good TV at his expense – I guess that’s how I want to say it.”
Pritchard, who gained significant recognition on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, is currently vying for a professional dancer position in the upcoming 35th season of the flagship Dancing with the Stars show. Chmerkovskiy speculated that the audition-like format of The Next Pro series might contribute to Pritchard’s approach.
Understanding the Competitive Drive
Chmerkovskiy acknowledged Pritchard’s past achievements, noting that the British dancer has a history of success, including winning awards. However, he emphasized that many contestants on such shows possess similar credentials. “We’ve all got pedigree – everybody’s won something,” Chmerkovskiy remarked, referencing other talented participants like Natalie Jolley.
The summer series, Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, featured 10 contestants paired up for challenges centered around personal narratives. In one episode, Pritchard and Hamilton chose to highlight Pritchard’s victory at the British Open Dance Championship. This decision, Chmerkovskiy suggested, contrasted with the more somber or challenging themes other pairs explored, such as overcoming grief or hardship.
Rehearsal Conduct and Mainstream Appeal
Chmerkovskiy pointed to specific instances during rehearsals where Pritchard’s teaching methods with Hamilton were perceived as abrupt. He described Pritchard physically demonstrating steps with his feet, a technique he conceded might be common in certain competitive dance circles. However, Chmerkovskiy cautioned that such a direct and perhaps curt approach could alienate a broader audience on a mainstream show like Dancing with the Stars.
“It’s not going to win people over unless they’re into that kind of thing… strategically for the show that is a huge turn-off,” Chmerkovskiy explained. While appreciating Pritchard’s competitive background and experience, Chmerkovskiy stopped short of labeling it as entitlement. Instead, he characterized it as a potential mindset of questioning the need to go through the audition process when one already feels established.
The Importance of Humility and Presence
Chmerkovskiy stressed that if Pritchard agreed to participate in the show, he should embrace the process with humility. “Dude, then don’t sign up for the show. But if you are going to show up, you’ve got to have humility in the sense that you’ve got to prove yourself,” he advised.
He further elaborated, “There’s a reason why you’re here and no longer have a job there – so be here, be present, don’t live in the past.” Chmerkovskiy felt that focusing on past glories, like the British Open Dance Championship, overshadowed his partner Hamilton’s own experiences and potential to share her story.
“I’m not really sure why, because I’m sure she also lived a life and has stories to tell,” Chmerkovskiy commented on Hamilton being sidelined in their challenge. The core of Chmerkovskiy’s critique centers on Pritchard’s perceived inability to adapt his competitive mindset and presentation for the demands of a mainstream entertainment program, particularly when seeking a new role within the Dancing with the Stars franchise.
AJ Pritchard’s Background and US Ambitions
AJ Pritchard’s career in the UK has been built on his success in competitive ballroom dancing and his subsequent television appearances. His tenure on Strictly Come Dancing established him as a familiar face to ballroom enthusiasts. Now, his participation in Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro signals a clear ambition to expand his profile and secure a place within the American iteration of the popular dance competition.
The show, designed to identify and showcase emerging or established talent for potential spots on the main series, inherently requires contestants to demonstrate not only technical skill but also adaptability, personality, and a willingness to connect with a wider audience. Chmerkovskiy’s comments suggest that Pritchard, despite his considerable dance pedigree, may be struggling with the latter aspects, potentially hindering his chances of impressing the judges and viewers.
The Path Forward for Pritchard
For Pritchard to succeed in his bid for a spot on Dancing with the Stars, Chmerkovskiy’s advice implies a need for a recalibration of his approach. This would involve demonstrating greater humility, a willingness to engage with the show’s format and narrative requirements, and a focus on present performance rather than past accolades. The dynamic between seasoned professionals and aspiring talent is a crucial element of shows like The Next Pro, and Chmerkovskiy’s critique highlights the fine line between projecting confidence and appearing dismissive of the opportunity and fellow competitors.
