Maks Chmerkovskiy Dishes On Privilege Of Being ‘SYTYCD’ Judge

Maks Chmerkovskiy and Shai Chmerkovskiy from Instagram

Professional dancer Maks Chmerkovskiy is headed back to television. But this time, his role looks very different.

Fans are used to seeing Maks compete in the ballroom. But this time, he will be behind the judges’ table when So You Think You Can Dance premieres on Fox.

In the past, Maks Chmerkovskiy has publicly criticized various judges, even the well-respected Len Goodman. So what does Maks have to say now that he’s in a judge’s role?

Maks Chmerkovskiy Opens Up About His New Judging Role

Maks Chmerkovskiy’s fans know he’s incredibly talented. But he also has a bit of a reputation for clapping back at judges. So what will he do now that the roles are reversed?

Maks Chmerkovskiy, Cat Deely, Allison Holker, and JoJo Siwa from Instagram
Maks Chmerkovskiy/Instagram

“It’s a privilege. I’m not gonna lie. And for me and someone like me, it’s a huge responsibility,” Maks shared with TooFab about his new role on So You Think You Can Dance. “I’ve spoken about it a lot. I’ve criticized that position infamously. I just need to live up to my own expectations and sort of the standards that I set when I was on the other side. I’m that guy. I remember everything I said to those people. So now, go and do better.”

 

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A post shared by Maksim Chmerkovskiy (@maksimc)

“You know, that’s how I approach parenting. If you’re complaining about the society or the people or the whatever, go make better humans. So I’m trying to do the same with judging and really embrace the opportunity here. What a privilege man, to be in a position to be a part of such an important dance project,” Maks continued.

He’s also excited that he doesn’t have to exert too much physical energy with this project. Now that he’s at the judges’ table, he can sit back and watch others dance.

“For once, for the first time, I’m that guy,” the 44-year-old said. “But every second of filming, the audition process, was a pinch me moment. I couldn’t believe it. I honestly… I still can’t.”

The Ukrainian Dancer Wants To Inspire Others

At the end of the day, Maks Chmerkovskiy admits he’s not doing the show to win fans. He’s doing it to encourage a young dancer’s career.

“I want to be a part of someone’s career that I can look back 10 years from now and say, ‘I was there. I did that.’ That comment, or maybe as part of the process that made that person really stand out, and really show themselves and now look at them,” he added. “So I’m very happy, I’m very excited. I’m treating it like being a parent, just a lot of responsibility, but also what a blessing to be a part of this.”

Allison Holker and JoJo Siwa will also join Maks as a judge this year. Without a doubt, it’s going to be quite an exciting season!

Are you excited to see Maks Chmerkovskiy as a judge when SYTYCD returns? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments.

The new season kicks off at 9 PM Eastern time on March 4. Tune into Fox and see all the brilliant dancers show off their skills!

Nikole Behrens
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