Maksim Chmerkovskiy

Maksim Chmerkovskiy was born on January 17th, 1980 to Aleksandr and Larisa Chmerkovskiy. Maks has a younger brother named Valentin (Val for short), who is also a dancer.

Maksim's parents brought him to his first dance class at the age of four. It is well known fact to those that know him that if you had asked Maks at 4, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" He would have most likely said an Olympic swimmer or a soccer player. Sports and competition has always run deep in his blood. He always has been a born athlete. He trained to be the best since he can remember. He passion for dance began when he actually reached his teenage years, when dancing became such a huge part of his life.

Unfortunately, during this time, he was in a skiing accident, which resulted in severe right leg injuries and hospitalization for months. He had to undergo many surgeries and constantly be monitored by doctors and physical therapists. Doctors told Maks about his high chance of being handicapped for the remainder of his life. Upon learning this, Maks became adamant with proving them wrong. He began rigorous physical therapy and dedicated months of his time to healing. Before long, Maks was in great shape and dancing again. Maks invited his doctor to his first competition after the accident. Needless to say, his doctor was speechless. Because of the accident, Maksim learned the importance of dedication and desire to succeed. He understands that success is about what you put into the effort.

The next biggest challenge Maksim had to face was immigrating to America and the financial and language barriers that came along with the move. The entire Chmerkovskiy family moved here in order to start a new life and to give Maks and Val more opportunities. He and his brother, Val, have appreciated the efforts his parents made on their behalf. They are a very close knit family, whose strength comes from respecting one another and helping support one another’s success 150%.

Today, Maks, at heart, is still that same kid who is willing to give his to succeed. It defines him as the man he is today. Fortunately, he did focus on dancing. Maks has grown into being a renowned choreographer, successful business owner, and national TV celebrity on Dancing With the Stars. He is founder of Rising Stars Academy, a dance studio that is focused on children and the pursuit of competitive Ballroom Dance. He is also a co-founder of Dance With Me Dance Studios along with his father, Sasha Chmerkovskiy and long term family friend, Jhanna Volynets. He is currently choreographing La Reve in Las Vegas. He is most known for and remains a series regular and is entering his upcoming ninth season of 'Dancing With The Stars'.