Does Maks Chmerkovskiy Think Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy Should Have Won ‘Dancing With the Stars’?
Maks Chmerkovskiy is opening up — not just about love, family, and parenthood, but also about one of the most talked-about questions from the latest season of Dancing With the Stars.
During a candid episode of “Couples Uncensored” with Access Hollywood, Maks and his wife, fellow DWTS alum Peta Murgatroyd, reflected on their relationship, raising three children together, and the resurgence of the long-running dance competition. Naturally, the conversation turned to whether Val Chmerkovskiy and his celebrity partner Alix Earle should have taken home the mirrorball trophy.

Maks on Whether Alix and Val Were Robbed of a Win
When asked directly if he believed Val and Alix deserved to win Dancing With the Stars this year, Maks gave a measured and respectful response.
“I think if they were to win, I would be super happy,” he said, noting that millions of fans would have celebrated alongside them. “It wouldn’t have felt like a travesty.”
Rather than framing the outcome as a snub, Maks emphasized just how close the competition was.
“In my opinion, it was neck and neck,” he explained, pointing to the tight race between Val and Alix and Witney Carson and Robert Irwin. “Without seeing the numbers, it really felt like it could’ve gone either way.”
His comments echoed the sentiments of many fans who flooded social media with support for Alix and Val following the finale.
Defending ‘DWTS’ Judges Amid Online Criticism
Maks also weighed in on the growing backlash aimed at longtime DWTS judge Carrie Ann Inaba, particularly claims that she judges female contestants more harshly.
“I don’t have a problem with Carrie Ann’s judging,” Maks said. “I think she’s consistent.”
While joking about her reputation as the show’s “lift police,” he stressed that consistency is something audiences should respect.
“The show went so viral this season,” he added. “There was so much chatter online that it just fed into itself.”
Why ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Is Thriving Again
According to Maks, the renewed popularity of DWTS didn’t come as a surprise. He credited the show’s evolution, stronger hosting lineup, and increased fan access.
“Those quieter years were important,” he explained. “They were the times the show figured things out.”
He specifically praised hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, saying they’ve helped bring fresh energy and authenticity to the ballroom.
“The show is back,” Maks declared. “And when it’s back, people talk freely — and loudly.”
Would Maks Ever Return to the Ballroom?
While Val continues to dominate the dance floor, Maks admitted a full-time return to DWTS feels unlikely.
“I think that boat has sailed,” he said honestly, citing the physical demands of the show, the intense social media expectations, and — most importantly — time away from his children.
That said, he didn’t rule out a one-time comeback.

“If they asked me for one final hurrah, I think I would,” he shared. “But being away from your kids for three months? That’s tough.”
Peta, however, made it clear she would fully support him if he chose to return, even joking that she’d handle everything at home.
Life Beyond the Dance Floor
The interview also showcased Maks and Peta’s deep bond, playful honesty, and admiration for each other as parents. From discussing holiday traditions to balancing careers with family life, the couple offered fans a rare and heartfelt look behind the scenes.

As for Dancing With the Stars, Maks made one thing clear: regardless of who wins, the show remains stronger than ever.
“It’s amazing,” he said. “Enjoy it.”