So, you’ve been binge-watching Dancing with the Stars again, huh? I don’t blame you—it’s basically the reality TV equivalent of a warm, glittery hug. And if you’ve been watching long enough, you’ve definitely noticed Val Chmerkovskiy spinning, twirling, and charming his way through the ballroom. The guy has been a fixture on the show for over a decade, and he’s got the mirrorball trophies to prove it.
But here’s the big question that’s probably rattling around in your brain: How many times has Val actually won DWTS? Grab a snack, get comfy, and let’s break it down—no dance knowledge required. Spoiler alert: It’s a solid, impressive number that’ll make you appreciate his fancy footwork even more.
The Short, Sparkly Answer
Let’s cut to the chase. As of Season 33 in 2024, Val Chmerkovskiy has won Dancing with the Stars exactly three times. Yep, three shiny mirrorball trophies sitting on his shelf (probably next to a framed photo of his abs, I’m guessing).
Must Read
Now, three wins might not sound like a ton, but in the world of DWTS, that’s elite territory. He’s tied with pros like Derek Hough and Mark Ballas for the most wins among male dancers. Not too shabby for a guy who started as a kid in Ukraine, right?
Let’s Relive the Victories (Like a Highlight Reel, But More Fun)
1. Season 20: Rumer Willis (2015)
This was Val’s first rodeo as a champion, and he paired up with Rumer Willis. You know, Bruce Willis’s daughter—the one who can actually sing and act and, apparently, dance like a dream. They were a powerhouse from week one, and their freestyle was basically a Broadway show in three minutes.
Val was on cloud nine. He even cried when they won. I mean, I cried too, but that’s because I’m a softie. This win proved Val wasn’t just a pretty face with a spray tan; he was a legit choreography wizard.
'DWTS': Xochitl Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy Feel 'So Much Love' After
2. Season 23: Laurie Hernandez (2016)
Next up, Val got paired with Laurie Hernandez, an Olympic gymnast who had just nabbed a gold medal in Rio. If you think gymnasts are flexible, wait until you see them do a paso doble. This duo was adorable, athletic, and totally unstoppable.
Their finale performance? Absolute fire. Laurie dunked Val during a lift, and the audience lost their minds. This win cemented Val’s reputation as the guy who can turn anyone—even a tiny, bouncy gymnast—into a ballroom beast.
3. Season 24: Normani Kordei (2017)
Ah, this one was special. Val partnered with Normani Kordei, a former Fifth Harmony member. She came in with some serious pop-star energy, but she also had a point to prove. And boy, did she prove it. Their chemistry was electric, their dances were jaw-dropping, and their freestyle is still the most-watched DWTS routine on YouTube.
Who Won 'Dancing With the Stars'? Here's How Your Favorites Placed
Val even broke his own rule by doing a contemporary dance—a huge risk that paid off big time. Normani later said Val taught her to “trust the process.” And the process? It gave them a mirrorball trophy. Three wins in three years. That’s like hitting a dance lottery jackpot.
But Wait, There’s More (Because Val Is a Showman)
Now, you might be thinking, “Has he won only three times? Those are rookie numbers!” Hold your horses, friend. Val has been a finalist many more times. We’re talking runners-up, near-wins, and emotional eliminations that left fans screaming at their TVs.
For example, Season 22 with Ginger Zee? Second place. Season 28 with Navy SEAL Jimmie Allen? Quarterfinals. Season 32 with Charity Lawson? Another impressive run. The guy has twelve seasons under his belt and has never finished lower than sixth place. Consistency is his middle name—no, wait, it’s actually “Alexandrovich,” but you get the point.
'DWTS' Season 32 Finale: Find Out Who Won
The Unofficial Wins (That Still Count in Our Hearts)
Let’s not forget Val’s hosting gig during the spin-off show, DWTS: Juniors. Yeah, he didn’t win a mirrorball there, but he did win our hearts with his ridiculous dad jokes. Also, his marriage to pro dancer Jenna Johnson is basically a win for Team Chmerkovskiy. They have a kid now, a little boy named Rome. Who knows? Maybe baby Rome will be the first two-year-old to nail a rumba.
And let’s be honest, every single time Val dances shirtless, it’s a win for humanity. I’m just saying. The man’s abs deserve their own trophy case.
What About His Brother, Maks?
If you’re a DWTS superfan, you know Val’s older brother Maksim Chmerkovskiy is also a pro (and a former champion himself). But here’s the tea: Val has more wins than Maks. Maks has two mirrorballs; Val has three. I can only imagine the sibling rivalry—probably a lot of “I’m the favorite son!” arguments at family dinners. I’d pay good money to see that.
Dancing With the Stars 2024 Winner & Who Won DWTS Season 33
The Bottom Line (Spoiler: It’s About More Than Trophies)
So, to recap: Val has won DWTS three times—with Rumer, Laurie, and Normani. But here’s the truth about Val Chmerkovskiy: he’s not just about the wins. He’s about the journey, the tears, the glitter, and the way he makes every partner feel like a star. He dances with passion, he gets emotional during package segments, and he always—always—gives 110%.
In a world full of reality TV drama, Val is a reminder that hard work and heart actually pay off. Whether he’s winning or coming in second, he’s out there, sweating and smiling, proving that dancing is more than just steps—it’s a language of joy.
So the next time you watch DWTS and see Val twirling a celebrity across the floor, just smile. Because no matter how many mirrorballs he collects, he’s already won a place in our living rooms—and in our hearts. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to practice my samba in the kitchen. Don’t judge me. Cha-cha-cha!