DWTS Professionals Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson's Son Rome Makes TV Debut

Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnsons 2-year-old son, Rome, made a charming appearance on the ABC special Dancing With the Holidays on December 2. The toddler joined his parents for a festive dance to the classic song "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus."

Dressed in a white collared shirt, burgundy vest, and matching pants, Rome sat on a velvet couch as his parents began their routine. The performance concluded with Jenna lifting Rome as Val returned to the stage dressed as Santa Claus. The trio were then greeted by Dancing With the Stars co-hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, whose microphone immediately captured Romes attention. When prompted to say hello, he sweetly responded, What's up? Later, during a discussion about holiday plans and the upcoming DWTS nationwide tour, Rome once again grabbed the microphone to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

Balancing Family and Career

For Jenna, including Rome on tour has been a dream. She has previously spoken about the challenges of balancing her identity as a performer with motherhood. In a 2024 Instagram post, she shared that she often felt torn between being the best mom possible and pursuing her artistic passions. Bringing Rome on the tour allowed her to embrace both roles, despite the exhaustion, and she described the experience as incredibly fulfilling.

Its a lot of work and you might not get as much sleep as youd hope for, but showing up for your BABY and YOURSELF is the most rewarding feeling, Jenna explained.

DWTS Couples On and Off the Dance Floor

Val and Jennas love story began in 2015, with engagement in 2018 and marriage in April 2019. They welcomed their son, Rome Valentin, in January 2023. Val has described fatherhood as elevating his joy for life and family.

Other DWTS pros have also found love through the show. From long-lasting relationships to brief flings, the show has been a backdrop for numerous romances. Some notable pairings include:

• Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan divorce settlement details were revealed regarding Magic Mike earnings.
• Britt and Daniel began dating in 2023, engaged in December 2023, and married in August 2025.
• Emma Slater and Alan Bersten briefly linked during season 33, though chemistry faded by mid-2025.
• Kym Johnson and Robert began dating after his separation in 2015, engaged and married by 2016, welcoming twins in 2018.
• Derek Hough and Shannon dated after season six, remained close friends, with Derek now married to Hayley Erbert.

DWTS has proven to be more than just a dance competition; it continues to be a stage for both professional success and personal connections among its cast.

Author: Sophia Brooks