VALENTIN CHMERKOVSKIY: Bio

Valentin Chmerkovskiy has been a US champion an incredible 14 times over his 15 year dance career. After numerous guest appearances on Dancing With the Stars, he has been taking center stage as one of the series regular dance pros. In season 13, he was paired with model/actress Elisabetta Canalis. In season 14, he was paired with comedian/talk show host Sherri Shepherd. During Season 15 on Dancing With the Stars All Stars, he is paired with actress Kelly Monaco.

Without a doubt, Valentin is one of the most accomplished Amateur Latin dancers in the history of Dancing with the Stars! Valentin was seven years old when he started dancing and at the age of 12, he went to his first overseas competition, the German Open, as one of only two U.S. couples there (his brother being the second). At 15, Valentin won his first IDSF World Championship and became the first and last American to ever do it. His accomplishments include winning the German Open, Asian-Pacific Chamiponships, US Open, Blackpool and the World Championships 2-times (Junior and Youth). Valentin is currently the United States Amateur Latin Champion with his partner Daria Chesnokova. Valentin Chmerkovskiy is co-owner of Rising Stars Dance Academy (RSDA), a ballroom dancesport school for aspiring young talent. Valentin is also co-owner of Dance With Me Dance Studios, which is one of the nation's leading social dance studios with locations in NY, NJ, and CT.

Valentin is a multi-talented entertainer who plays the violin, dances and is passionate in his pursuit of music as a rapper/songwriter. He recently launched the singles: "Champagne Diet", "White Boy Boogie" and in Sept 2012 just dropped his latest single "Straight Outta Jersey". Valentin believes that passion, dedication, discipline and focus is the foundation of all success.

"Talent is not a profession. Capitalize on your opportunities with integrity, hard-work, and persistence." – Valentin Chmerkovskiy