‘DWTS’ Alum Maks Chmerkovskiy Slams ‘Absurd’ Casting of Taylor Swift’s Dancer Jan Ravnik as Pro: ‘There’s Zero Foundation’

In a recent episode of Dancing with the Stars, Jen Affleck stood up for her dance partner Jan Ravnik after former contestant Maksim Chmerkovskiy criticized Ravnik's presence on the show. Chmerkovskiy claimed that Ravnik, a former backup dancer for Taylor Swift, had 'no business' being a pro dancer. Affleck's defense highlights the importance of supporting fellow performers and showcases the camaraderie that can exist in competitive environments. This incident not only emphasizes the challenges faced by newcomers in the industry but also the need for encouragement and positivity.

Jen Affleck is standing up for her partner Jan Ravnik on 'Dancing With the Stars' after facing criticism from former pros Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd. This defense highlights the camaraderie and support among contestants, showcasing the importance of teamwork in the competition. Jen's response not only aims to protect Jan's reputation but also emphasizes the spirit of the show, where participants uplift each other amidst the pressures of public scrutiny.

Taylor Swift made headlines as she reunited with Brittany Mahomes at Arrowhead Stadium during a game where her fiancé, Travis Kelce, played for the Kansas City Chiefs against the Washington Commanders. This moment not only highlights the personal connections in the world of sports but also showcases Swift's support for Kelce, further intertwining her celebrity status with the NFL. Fans are excited to see this blend of pop culture and sports, making it a significant event for both Swifties and football enthusiasts.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy has publicly criticized the casting of Jan Ravnik, a former backup dancer for Taylor Swift, on this season of 'Dancing With the Stars.' Chmerkovskiy believes Ravnik lacks the qualifications to be a pro dancer on the show. This controversy highlights ongoing debates about talent and merit in reality television, raising questions about how casting decisions are made and who gets the opportunity to shine on such a prominent platform.

Taylor Swift is celebrating a remarkable achievement as her album 'The Life of a Showgirl' secures its third consecutive week at No. 1 on the charts, earning 194,000 equivalent album units. This milestone is significant as it's only the second album of 2025 to maintain such a strong position for its first three weeks. This success not only highlights Swift's enduring popularity but also sets a high bar for her contemporaries, including Olivia Dean and Leon Thomas, who have made their way into the Top 10.

Cheryl Burke is making a highly anticipated return to 'Dancing With The Stars' as a guest judge on October 28, after stepping back from performing in 2022. Her experience from 26 seasons in the competition brings a unique perspective to the judging panel, which also includes Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, and Carrie Ann Inaba. This return is significant not only for Burke but also for fans who appreciate her insights and expertise in the dance world.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy, a former pro on 'Dancing With the Stars', has publicly criticized the show's choice to cast Jan Ravnik, who is known as a backup dancer for Taylor Swift. Chmerkovskiy expressed his concerns about the decision, suggesting it undermines the competition's integrity. This controversy matters as it highlights ongoing debates about authenticity and talent in reality TV, especially in a show that prides itself on showcasing skilled dancers.

Dylan Efron recently shared on Instagram that he broke his nose during a rehearsal for 'Dancing with the Stars' with his partner Daniella Karagach. This incident highlights the physical demands and risks involved in competitive dancing, reminding fans that even celebrities face challenges while preparing for performances.

Jon Stewart has raised concerns about Donald Trump's recent comments expressing a desire to run for a third term, which could violate constitutional norms. In a satirical segment on The Daily Show, Stewart humorously critiqued Trump's approach, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. This matters because it underscores the ongoing debates about presidential power and the integrity of democratic processes, especially as Trump continues to influence American politics.

Catherine Corcoran, known for her role in 'Terrifier', has filed a lawsuit against the film's producers and director Damien Leone, claiming they breached her contract and distributed explicit materials without her consent. This case highlights ongoing issues in the film industry regarding the treatment of actors, particularly in low-budget productions, where such violations can often go unchecked. Corcoran's actions may pave the way for greater accountability and protection for performers.

Japan has been named the Country of Honour for the 2026 Cannes Marché du Film, a prestigious recognition announced by Executive Director Guillaume Esmiol at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This honor highlights Japan's rich cinematic heritage and its contributions to global cinema, making it a significant moment for the country's film industry and culture. The event will provide a platform for Japanese filmmakers to showcase their work and foster international collaborations.

This fun interactive piece from BuzzFeed invites readers to pick their favorite horror movies and reveals whether they would survive until the end of a typical horror film. It's a light-hearted way to engage with the genre, appealing to both horror enthusiasts and casual fans. The quiz format makes it entertaining and encourages sharing among friends, which is a great way to spark conversations about horror films.

The latest buzz around 'Wicked: For Good' suggests that it could be a strong contender at the Oscars, with early reactions praising its emotional depth and stunning performances. Directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Winnie Holzman, this sequel is generating excitement for its potential to surpass the success of its predecessor. As fans eagerly await its release, the film's ability to resonate with audiences and critics alike could redefine its place in cinematic history.

In a recent episode of Dancing with the Stars, Jen Affleck stood up for her dance partner Jan Ravnik after former contestant Maksim Chmerkovskiy criticized Ravnik's presence on the show. Chmerkovskiy claimed that Ravnik, a former backup dancer for Taylor Swift, had 'no business' being a pro dancer. Affleck's defense highlights the importance of supporting fellow performers and showcases the camaraderie that can exist in competitive environments. This incident not only emphasizes the challenges faced by newcomers in the industry but also the need for encouragement and positivity.