Emma Slater and Alan Bersten speak out as speculation swirls over tension, favoritism, and quitting claims behind the scenes
After weeks of speculation and backstage whispers, professional dancers from Dancing With the Stars are pushing back against claims that the long-running ballroom hit was plagued by “toxic energy” this season.
As the latest season wrapped, fan chatter and tabloid reports painted a picture of a tense work environment, alleged rivalries among dancers, and even threats of walkouts by veteran pros. Now, two of the show’s most recognizable faces are setting the record straight.
Emma Slater Breaks Her Silence on the Rumors
Pro dancer Emma Slater addressed the controversy during an appearance on the House of Maher podcast, making it clear that the rumors do not reflect her experience on set.
“I don’t want to dwell on it too much,” Slater said, referring to recent headlines suggesting a toxic atmosphere. “There was an article that came out saying there was ‘toxic energy’ on Dancing With the Stars. And that could not be further from the truth.”
Her comments were direct and dismissive of the idea that the show’s environment had become hostile or unhealthy.
Alan Bersten Denies Reports of On-Set Conflict
Slater’s partner on the show, Alan Bersten, echoed her sentiments and addressed rumors that the two had been arguing during the season.
“A lot of these articles are just so wrong,” Bersten said, adding that even his family had been confused by the claims. “My mom called me and asked, ‘Are you guys fighting?’ I was like, ‘What?’”
Both dancers emphasized that their working relationship remained positive and professional throughout the season, directly contradicting reports of internal conflict.
Where the “Toxic Set” Claims Came From
The rumors gained traction in October after a report suggested that the DWTS set had become increasingly tense. According to unnamed sources, there was alleged friction between long-standing professional dancers and newer talent.
The report claimed that veteran pros felt overshadowed by younger dancers and frustrated by what they perceived as favoritism in celebrity partner assignments. It also alleged passive-aggressive behavior and growing dissatisfaction with production decisions.
Allegations of Favoritism and Potential Walkouts
The same report suggested that several established dancers were considering leaving the show altogether. Names mentioned included Jenna Johnson, Brandon Armstrong, and others who were said to feel sidelined despite their long tenure.
According to the source, some pros believed they were being treated unfairly due to internal politics rather than performance, prompting talk of ending contracts and walking away. Producers were reportedly concerned about the possibility of losing legacy talent.
Pros Push Back Against the Narrative
Despite the swirling speculation, Slater and Bersten’s comments suggest a disconnect between tabloid narratives and the lived reality of those on set. Their statements frame the season as intense but far from toxic, emphasizing collaboration over conflict.
Neither dancer addressed claims involving other pros directly, but their firm denial of widespread tension casts doubt on the more dramatic portrayals of behind-the-scenes chaos.
What This Means for the Future of DWTS
As Dancing With the Stars continues to evolve with new talent and fresh formats, conversations about favoritism, longevity, and creative direction are likely to persist. However, the show’s core professionals appear keen to reassure fans that the ballroom remains a supportive place to work.
For now, at least, the dancers most directly involved in the rumors are making one thing clear: the music may be dramatic, but the atmosphere behind the scenes is not nearly as dark as some headlines suggest.