Dancing With The Stars Jenna Johnson And Val Chermkovskiy Had Their Baby And Tons Of Dwts Vets Shared Loving Reactions
Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy Welcome Baby Boy, DWTS Family Celebrates a New Star
The ballroom world of Dancing with the Stars is buzzing with joy as professional dancers Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy have officially welcomed their first child into the world. The beloved couple, who have captivated audiences for years with their impressive routines and undeniable chemistry both on and off the dance floor, announced the birth of their baby boy on January 13, 2023. The announcement, made across their respective social media platforms, was met with an outpouring of love and congratulatory messages from their extensive Dancing with the Stars family, showcasing the deep bonds forged within the show’s competitive yet close-knit community. This momentous occasion marks a new chapter for Jenna and Val, and the excitement among their fellow pros, former celebrity contestants, and fans is palpable.
The journey to parenthood for Jenna Johnson, 29, and Val Chmerkovskiy, 37, has been a public one, with the couple often sharing glimpses into their lives and their anticipation for their growing family. Their engagement in 2018, a surprise proposal on stage during Dancing with the Stars: Live!, and their subsequent fairy-tale wedding in 2019, have been widely celebrated by fans who have followed their love story. The pregnancy announcement in July 2022, shared with an emotional black-and-white photo of the couple holding ultrasound pictures, further endeared them to their followers, who eagerly awaited the arrival of their little one. The couple has consistently spoken about their desire to start a family, making this news all the more heartwarming for those who have supported them throughout their careers.
The arrival of baby Chmerkovskiy immediately triggered a cascade of heartfelt messages from a vast array of Dancing with the Stars veterans. From seasoned professionals who have graced the ballroom for countless seasons to beloved past celebrity partners, the outpouring of support underscored the strong camaraderie that exists within the DWTS universe. Val’s brother and fellow professional dancer, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, was among the first to express his immense happiness. He shared a touching message on Instagram, stating, "My heart is overflowing with joy for my brother and Jenna. Welcome to the world, little man. You are so loved already." This sentiment was echoed by Maks’s wife and DWTS pro, Peta Murgatroyd, who added, "Congratulations to the most incredible parents! So thrilled for this new adventure you’re embarking on. Can’t wait to meet our new nephew!" The Chmerkovskiy brothers’ bond, a cornerstone of the show’s history, now extends to a new generation, a prospect that has delighted fans who have watched them compete against and support each other for years.
Sharna Burgess, another prominent DWTS pro, who recently welcomed her own child with actor Brian Austin Green, also shared her congratulations. "Oh, my heart! This is just the most beautiful news. Welcome to the mama club, Jenna! So excited for you both and already dreaming of playdates for our little ones," she posted, referencing the shared experience of new motherhood within the DWTS community. Lindsay Arnold Cusick, a fellow competitor and close friend of Jenna’s, expressed her excitement with an emotional tribute. "Jenna! My dearest friend! Seeing you as a mama is a dream come true. Val and you have created such a beautiful love, and now you have this perfect little miracle. So much love to you all!" Lindsay’s message highlighted the genuine friendships that transcend the competitive nature of the show, emphasizing the support system these dancers provide for each other.
The sentiment of shared joy extended beyond the professional dancers to many of the celebrity contestants who have experienced the DWTS journey firsthand. Season 29 winner and actress Kaitlyn Bristowe, who forged a strong connection with Artem Chigvintsev (now her husband and a DWTS pro himself), sent a radiant message: "OMG JENNA AND VAL! This is everything! So incredibly happy for you two. Sending so much love and all the snuggles to your beautiful baby boy!" Former contestant and NFL star Rashad Jennings, known for his charismatic personality and successful partnership with Emma Slater, also chimed in. "Congratulations to two of my favorite people! The dance floor just got a little brighter with this new arrival. Wishing you all endless joy and precious moments." The inclusion of these celebrity voices further emphasizes the familial atmosphere that Dancing with the Stars cultivates, where participants often form lasting bonds.
Other notable DWTS alums who offered their well wishes include Artem Chigvintsev, who shared a simple yet heartfelt "Congrats guys!" on social media. Derek Hough, a multi-time champion and now a judge on the show, expressed his delight, stating, "So thrilled for Jenna and Val! A new generation of dancers is on the way. Congratulations!" This nod to the future of dance from a legendary figure like Derek Hough adds a significant layer of gravitas to the celebration. Emma Slater, a fan favorite, posted a picture of Jenna and Val with a caption that read, "My heart is exploding! Congratulations my beautiful friends on your precious baby boy. This is just the beginning of a magical journey for you all." The shared language of dance and performance often creates a unique understanding and connection between the professionals and celebrities involved in the show.
The couple themselves shared a touching announcement, revealing their son’s name: River Rose Chmerkovskiy. Jenna posted a tender photo of her and Val holding their baby’s tiny hands, accompanied by the caption, "Our son is here and our hearts explode. River Rose Chmerkovskiy 1/13/23. We are so in love." This simple yet profound announcement resonated deeply with fans, who have been invested in their journey from the beginning. Val shared the same photo and caption, solidifying their united front in celebrating this significant milestone. The choice of the name River, often associated with nature and flow, suggests a gentle and harmonious new beginning, a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates their joy.
The impact of Dancing with the Stars on the lives of its participants extends far beyond the weekly competitions. The show has a remarkable ability to foster deep connections, leading to lasting friendships, romances, and even families. Jenna and Val’s story is a testament to this, as their professional collaboration blossomed into a profound personal partnership. The outpouring of love from their DWTS family underscores the reality that while the show may be competitive, it is also a nurturing ground for genuine human connection and shared life experiences. This new chapter for Jenna and Val is not just a personal triumph but a celebrated event within a community that has watched them grow, evolve, and now, expand their family.
The birth of baby Chmerkovskiy is a significant event for the Dancing with the Stars community, signifying a new generation of talent potentially emerging from a lineage of exceptional dancers. The extensive congratulations and well wishes from a diverse group of DWTS veterans – including Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Peta Murgatroyd, Sharna Burgess, Lindsay Arnold Cusick, Kaitlyn Bristowe, Artem Chigvintsev, Derek Hough, and Emma Slater, among many others – highlight the deep-seated bonds of friendship and shared experience forged within the show. This moment serves as a beautiful reminder of the enduring impact Dancing with the Stars has on the lives of its professionals and the remarkable sense of family it cultivates, proving that the magic of the ballroom extends far beyond the dance floor and into the most cherished moments of life. The continued support and love from this vibrant community will undoubtedly be a source of strength and joy for Jenna, Val, and their little one as they embark on this exciting new adventure.