In a move that electrified “Dancing With The Stars” fans, Jen Affleck publicly backed her partner Jan Ravnik after veteran pro Maks Chmerkovskiy questioned Ravnik’s suitability, igniting discussions on professional critique versus fan support and loyalty.
The world of “Dancing With The Stars” is no stranger to passionate critiques and dramatic moments, but a recent exchange has ignited a fervent debate among pros and fans alike. Jen Affleck, known for “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” has come out swinging in defense of her new professional partner, Jan Ravnik, following pointed comments from long-time “DWTS” veteran Maks Chmerkovskiy.
This public display of solidarity highlights the intense bonds formed between partners on the hit reality competition, and underscores the fiercely protective nature of the “DWTS” community when one of their own is perceived to be under attack.
The Criticism: Maks Chmerkovskiy’s Scathing Assessment
The controversy began after Affleck and Ravnik performed a foxtrot on the show’s “Wicked Night.” While the routine failed to fully impress the judges, it was former pro Maks Chmerkovskiy who delivered the most cutting remarks.
Speaking on his wife Peta Murgatroyd’s podcast, “The Penthouse with Peta,” Chmerkovskiy expressed his unfiltered opinion on Ravnik’s performance and suitability as a professional dancer on the show. His comments were direct and unequivocal, leaving little room for interpretation.
“I’m sorry, Jan has absolutely no business being a pro on ‘Dancing With The Stars’,” Chmerkovskiy declared on the October 24, 2025, podcast episode, as reported by AOL Parade. He elaborated on his critique, stating, “There’s zero foundation, technique, quality, understanding of the partnership. Bro, I’m getting emotional. It is absurd.”
Murgatroyd, also a “DWTS” pro, offered a softer take, suggesting that Ravnik, being in his first season, deserved “grace” for his learning curve. However, Chmerkovskiy vehemently disagreed, stating, “No, we do not have to give him grace. Are you kidding me?”
This strong stance from Chmerkovskiy, who competed for 17 seasons and won season 18, immediately went viral, sparking a wide range of reactions across social media and fan forums.
Jen Affleck’s TikTok Defense: A Modern Show of Loyalty
In response to the growing criticism, Jen Affleck wasted no time in publicly defending her partner. On Monday, October 27, 2025, Affleck took to TikTok to post a video that quickly became a rallying cry for Ravnik’s supporters. The video showcased Affleck furiously typing on her phone, presumably crafting a retort, while Ravnik, wearing a mask due to the flu, lip-synced to a trending audio clip.
The audio played a determined message: “Take it down. Take it down. We need it gone. Take it down. That doesn’t represent me or what we need to be doing.” Affleck’s accompanying caption left no doubt about her stance: “We don’t tolerate Jan slander in this house!!” She also tagged Jan Ravnik and the official “Dancing With The Stars” TikTok account, making her message loud and clear.
This bold move by Affleck, a star of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” was widely seen as a direct rebuttal to Chmerkovskiy’s comments, demonstrating unwavering support for her partner. It resonated deeply with fans who appreciate loyalty and a strong defense of new talent.
Fan Reactions and the DWTS Community’s Response
The “DWTS” fan community quickly rallied around Affleck’s defense of Ravnik. Many viewers expressed their admiration for the new pro, who is also celebrated for his work as a backup dancer on Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour,” viewing him as a fresh face bringing new energy to the show. The immediate outpouring of support showcased the tight-knit nature of the show’s viewership and their willingness to stand by their favorite stars and dancers.
As TV Insider reported, comments poured in on Affleck’s TikTok, with many criticizing Chmerkovskiy’s remarks:
- “Jan has become my new favourite pro. Maks is bitter.”
- “Maks was literally giving jealous ex-pro vibes. Jan is a king.”
- “Who cares about Maks and Peta? They are old news.”
- “I do not think the hater realized that Jan has an army of Swifties backing him up.”
These reactions underscore a common sentiment within fan communities: a deep-seated loyalty to beloved personalities and a protective instinct when they face criticism, especially from established figures.
The Bigger Picture: Critique, Mentorship, and New Generations
This incident opens up a broader discussion about the role of criticism, mentorship, and the integration of new talent in established competitions like “Dancing With The Stars.” Veteran pros like Maks Chmerkovskiy bring a wealth of experience and a high standard of ballroom technique. Their critiques often come from a place of deep understanding of the craft.
However, the show also thrives on fresh faces and diverse dance backgrounds. Jan Ravnik’s background as a touring dancer for a global superstar like Taylor Swift brings a contemporary flair and performance dynamism that might differ from traditional ballroom, yet still captivate audiences. This clash of perspectives—classical technique versus modern performance—is often what fuels the evolution of art forms and entertainment.
As the “DWTS” season 34 continues, Affleck and Ravnik are choosing to focus on their upcoming contemporary routine for Halloween night. “Dancing with the Stars” airs live on Tuesdays on ABC and streams on Disney+ in local time zones, and the next day on Hulu, promising more performances and, undoubtedly, more spirited discussions.
