Savchenko's 12-Season Break Leads Him to Compete as a Celebrity

# Gleb Savchenko Says His 12‑Year DWT Run Is a “Little Reset” Three decades of twirling, tangoing, and toe‑pointing have become a familiar soundtrack to Gleb Savchenko’s life.

The 43‑year‑old professional dancer, who first burst onto the ballroom scene in 2013, took to the runway at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show on September 29, a high‑profile event hosted by Johnson & Johnson to spotlight prostate cancer awareness.

While decked in a Bloomingdale’s ensemble, Savchenko mused about his own tenure on the television competition, describing the past twelve seasons as a “little break, a little hiatus, a little reset.” His candid admission reverberated far beyond the runway, offering a glimpse into a dancer’s restless spirit and the inevitable need for pause.

The interview, conducted in a candid, off‑camera setting, was more than a casual chat. It was a moment where the veteran pro reflected on the physical and emotional toll that comes with the relentless demands of weekly televised dance battles.

Savchenko laughed when he recalled how he once forgot how many seasons he’d completed, noting that the sheer number of shows and accompanying tours had blurred the line between personal life and performance.

He emphasized that stepping back from the dance floor would allow him to view the show from a fresh perspective—watching his fellow competitors, appreciating the artistry, and perhaps catching a few familiar faces in a new light.

Yet he made it clear that he is not retiring; rather, he plans to re‑enter the competition as a celebrity contestant, ready to chase a new title.

Savchenko’s remarks carry weight because they come from someone whose career has become synonymous with the show’s brand. ## Background & Context Gleb Savchenko’s journey to the top of “Dancing With the Stars” began when he joined the roster of professional dancers in 2013.

With a background that includes ballroom, Latin, and modern choreography, he quickly became a fan favorite, celebrated for his impeccable technique and charismatic presence on the stage.

Over the years, he partnered with a diverse roster of celebrities, guiding them through a whirlwind of rehearsals, televised performances, and the inevitable emotional rollercoaster that comes with public scrutiny.

His longevity on the show is his adaptability and passion for dance, attributes that have allowed him to thrive in an arena where the competition is fierce and the spotlight never dims. The 12‑season run that Savchenko refers to is not just a number; it represents a period of relentless dedication.

Between the high‑stakes live shows, the travel schedule for touring performances, and the personal commitment required to master new routines for each season, the professional demands are immense.

Yet Savchenko’s comments hint at an often‑overlooked reality: the cumulative fatigue that can erode even the most resilient performers.

By labeling his hiatus as a “reset,” he acknowledges the necessity of physical recovery, mental rejuvenation, and a chance to step back and savor the art form from a spectator’s viewpoint.

His willingness to share this vulnerability adds a human layer to the larger‑than‑life persona that fans have come to admire. ## What People Are Saying During the interview, Savchenko shared more than just his break strategy; he offered his perspective on current and future contestants.

He singled out Tyler Cameron and Sharna Buress as potential underdogs, praising Cameron’s impressive dancing skill, height, and natural ability to command the floor. He also voiced support for partners like Ezra Frech, Daniella Karagach, and the dynamic duo of Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Dewan.

Beyond championing specific contestants, he delved into the intricacies of ballroom partnership. Savchenko highlighted how success in the sport hinges on a delicate push‑and‑pull dynamic, emphasizing the difficulty of forging genuine connection with a partner in high‑pressure scenarios.

He noted that while professional dancers like Jenna Dewan may have extensive background training, the art of ballroom dance demands more than rehearsed steps—it requires a fluid, almost improvisational bond that can only be cultivated through trust and mutual understanding.

Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Dewan are both facing criticism for having background knowledge in dance. Savchenko, however, doesn’t see it as an advantage.

“I agree with people that when they say ballroom is completely different because it’s a partner dance, and in order to learn the routine, to deliver the routine, to perform the routine with a partner, you have to create a connection, and to create a connection, if we go into technical terms, it’s a push and pull,” he explained.

“To find that connection and balance is extremely hard. It’s really really hard.” He continued, “So for people like Jenna and Val, I mean, look, yes, she’s a professional dancer.

She might learn steps and choreography, but will she be able to do a foxtrot? Stretched neck, beautiful lines.

That’s a challenge, right?” Savchenko also got candid with Us about how he thinks judges Derek Hough, Carrie‑Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli have been scoring the competitors. “I wish there could be some twos,” he said.

“Throw a two. Throw a f***ing one.

Like, come on. I don’t think they’re hard enough.” He went on to say that while some fans “boo” Inaba, he actually doesn’t think of any of the judges as “harsh.” “I mean, [casting director] Deena Katz, you gotta put me as a guest judge already,” he added.

“Come on, between Bruno and Derek, I’ll be a great judge. I’ll be a really good judge because I know what I’m talking about.

There’s no bulls***.” ## What Happens Next Savchenko’s declaration of a “little reset” comes with an unexpected twist: a return to the competitive arena as a celebrity contestant. While details are still murky, the implications are clear.

By stepping into a new role, he will experience the emotional highs and lows that his partners once endured, potentially enriching his perspective as a future mentor.

This shift also hints at a broader career evolution, as the dancer transitions from a familiar backstage figure to the very spotlight he once guided others into. Industry insiders anticipate that Savchenko’s return could reshape the dynamics of the show.

In the months ahead, Savchenko will likely engage in a rigorous training schedule to hone his skills for the upcoming season. The process will involve choreographing new routines, partnering with a chosen celebrity, and rehearsing for the intensity of televised competition.

As he returns to the ballroom, his story will serve as the cyclical nature of dance—where taking a step back can ultimately prepare one to leap forward with renewed vigor.

Gleb Savchenko’s willingness to share his thoughts on a break, his respect for the sport, and his daring plans for the future underscore a man who has always chased the next challenge.

As he prepares to re‑enter the fray, fans can expect an electrifying blend of experience, ambition, and a fresh perspective that only a true dance veteran can bring.