Val Chmerkovskiy, a three-time champion of "Dancing with the Stars," has voiced strong criticism of British reality star AJ Pritchard's "arrogance" and demeanor during the competition series "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro." Chmerkovskiy, who hosts the podcast "Stepping on Toes," stated that Pritchard's attitude, particularly in his interactions with dance partner Selena Hamilton, was "something that would be done in some rooms" but would likely alienate mainstream audiences.
Pritchard, a 31-year-old dancer known for his past appearances on BBC One's "Strictly Come Dancing," is competing for a spot as a professional dancer on the 35th season of "Dancing with the Stars." Chmerkovskiy, 40, suggested that Pritchard's audition-like approach might stem from his prior accolades, noting that other contestants also possess significant experience and achievements.
During a recent episode, contestants were tasked with creating routines based on personal stories. Pritchard and Hamilton reportedly focused their performance on Pritchard's British Open Dance Championship victory, a choice Chmerkovskiy felt overshadowed Hamilton's own experiences and stories. He observed Pritchard's method of physically demonstrating steps to Hamilton with his feet, which he deemed inappropriate for a mainstream show.
"I appreciate that he's a well-accomplished competitive dancer and he does have experience," Chmerkovskiy said. "I understand if he's coming in with this feeling of like – I'm not gonna say entitlement, I don't want to use that word."
Chmerkovskiy emphasized that if Pritchard felt he did not need to go through the audition process, he should not have signed up for the show. "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 stated. "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, a recipient of three "Dancing with the Stars" championships, was seen with celebrity partner Alix Earle in 2025. He suggested that Pritchard needs to exhibit more "humility."
Pritchard, who gained recognition on "Strictly Come Dancing," was seen in London last year.
The Daily Mail has reached out to representatives for both Chmerkovskiy and Pritchard for further comment.