Two of Dancing with the Stars‘ most familiar faces, Alan Bersten and Emma Slater, have decided to share more about their personal lives. The professional dancers, who have been fan favorites for years, recently opened up about the details of their relationship, the moment they went public, and how they support each other both on and off the dance floor.
How a Backstage Rumor Brought Them Closer
Recent news stories suggested there was tension between the couple after Slater was eliminated from Season 34 with her partner, comedian Andy Richter. Both Bersten and Slater have directly addressed and denied these claims. In a podcast appearance, Bersten clarified that the stories were completely inaccurate, stating his own mother had called him after reading the reports to ask if they were fighting.
Slater described the actual backstage atmosphere as collaborative and supportive, using the word “wholesome” to sum up her experience. The couple explained that they see each other as partners, not competitors. Bersten mentioned how valuable it is to have someone who understands the demanding schedule of the show, saying the journey is “so time-consuming” and having Slater’s support is a comfort.
The Viral Tour Moment That Confirmed Their Relationship
Fans first saw proof of Bersten and Slater’s relationship during the DWTS Live! 2025 tour. In a now-viral moment, Bersten kissed Slater on stage during their final performance. Interestingly, the idea for the gesture came from Bersten’s former celebrity partner, Ilona Maher. Maher suggested the kiss to Bersten while they were backstage, noting how beautifully the two were dancing together.
Slater said she had no idea the kiss was going to happen until the day of the show, and Bersten made sure to ask for her permission first. The moment was so spontaneous that the couple joked they messed up their choreography afterward because the audience’s screams threw off their timing. For Bersten, making their relationship public was a significant step. He said, “I want everyone to know that Emma’s my girl, and I know she wants everyone to know that I’m her man”.
Slater shared that fellow pro Britt Stewart gave her important advice about being open with their lives. Stewart told her, “You’re kind of living in fear. You’re not really owning your own life because you’re worried about what people will say”. Slater said that after they went public, a weight was lifted. “The second that we made it public… it was by far the best thing because we just popped that illusion”.
What Alan Bersten and Emma Slater Love About Each Other
During their joint interview, the pair shared what they appreciate most about one another. Slater praised Bersten’s practical and logical nature, his sense of humor, and the care he shows her.
“I love the fact that he really does show affection to me and he takes care of me and I love his heart,” Slater said.
Bersten first joked, “Have you seen her?” before speaking about Slater’s caring personality and drive to learn.
“The fact that Emma cares so much about everyone, [even if] she’s never met them before, she’s going to care. She’s going to try to help them out,” Bersten said. “She really wants me to be a better person. And I think that’s important”.
He also expressed admiration for her constant desire to grow, noting she got her real estate and notary licenses simply for fun and loves to read and research.
Balancing Life On Tour and Shared Career Goals
Both dancers are currently preparing for the next Dancing with the Stars live tour, which runs from January to April 2026. Bersten expressed excitement about touring with Slater and their dog, saying, “I’m with my baby and my dog, and it’s so amazing that we get to do what we love”. For Slater, who is originally from England, touring offers a chance to see more of the United States.
Their relationship has also been a learning experience. Bersten credits Slater with improving their communication, particularly in talking about his feelings. In turn, Slater says Bersten has taught her to apologize more often, admitting she can be quite stubborn.
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A Look at Their Individual Journeys on DWTS
Alan Bersten, 31, is from Minnesota and began dancing at age seven. He joined Dancing with the Stars as a troupe member in Season 20 before becoming a professional partner in Season 25. His biggest win came in Season 28 in 2019 when he and partner Hannah Brown won the Mirrorball Trophy. Most recently, in Season 33 (2024), he and Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher finished in second place.
Emma Slater, 36, is originally from England and moved to the United States to join DWTS. She started on the show as a troupe member in Season 14 and was promoted to professional partner in Season 17. She won the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 24 in 2017 with partner Rashad Jennings. In the most recent season, she was partnered with comedian Andy Richter, and the pair were eliminated during the season’s 20th-anniversary celebration episode.
As for the future, Slater has already playfully pitched her dream partner for a future season: Canadian comedian Nathan Fielder.
Also Read: Emma Slater Says Dancing With The Stars Is Everywhere Now Thanks To Social Media
