Throughout his many seasons as a professional on “Dancing with the Stars,” Maksim Chmerkovskiy gained quite a “bad boy” reputation. He frequently clashed with former DWTS judge Len Goodman, in particular.
In a recent interview, Chmerkovskiy talked about how he wants to imitate Goodman in his new role on “So You Think You Can Dance.” He also mentioned that “American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent” judge Simon Cowell has been an inspiration.
Here’s what you should know:
Maks Chmerkovskiy Aims to Emulate Len Goodman’s Type of ‘Longevity & Expertise’
On March 4, Chmerkovskiy spoke with USA Today about his new job. He shared a lot about how his time on “Dancing with the Stars” influenced his approach to “So You Think You Can Dance.”
As the media reported, Chmerkovskiy competed as a professional on “Dancing with the Stars” for 17 seasons. He also appeared as a guest judge.
Now, he has taken on a permanent judging role on Fox. He is evaluating season 18 of “So You Think You Can Dance” alongside Allison Holker and JoJo Siwa.
Chmerkovskiy acknowledges the reputation he had on “Dancing with the Stars.” He mentioned, “I feel like there was one Maks that was always being portrayed, negatively or not.”
He added, “This was all me; I accept the portrayal. But people will see a Maks that no one ever really got to see before” on “So You Think You Can Dance.”
Chmerkovskiy had many conflicts with departed “Dancing with the Stars” judge Goodman over the years. However, he speaks highly of him. “Len Goodman is a big influence; I’ve never said it before.”
Chmerkovskiy also noted the way Goodman “presented himself consistently.” He added, “I’m definitely looking at him and learning.”
“I want to establish myself as someone who has that kind of longevity and expertise,” he shared.
DWTS Isn’t the Same Without Goodman
Despite the on-air clashes between Goodman and Chmerkovskiy over the years, the two dance professionals got along fine off-camera. Chmerkovskiy explained, “There was never enough of a fight that we had to talk about it.”
Additionally, Chmerkovskiy revealed, “We played golf a bunch of times and were perfectly fine together. I miss him.”
“Dancing with the Stars” fans may recall that Chmerkovskiy was one of many former show professionals who returned for one special episode during season 32. The group did a beautiful performance as a tribute to Goodman.
Chmerkovskiy admitted that the show isn’t the same with Goodman gone. “Len is missing. You can feel it.”
However, he is enjoying his new role on “So You Think You Can Dance.” Chmerkovskiy raved, “This is the job that I was born to do, today.”
Aside from Goodman’s influence, Chmerkovskiy mentioned another reality television judge has had an impact on him.
The new “So You Think You Can Dance” judge compared himself to Simon Cowell, of “American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent” fame. Chmerkovskiy noted he will be a “no-nonsense” judge, much like Cowell.
Chmerkovskiy’s expectations for the contestants are high. “Don’t be in front of me unless you’ve given everything,” he cautioned.
He said that his rise to fame like Cowell's will only happen if it's approved by a total lack of preparation, or if he sees carelessness towards the opportunity here.
Season 18 of “So You Think You Can Dance” premiered on Fox on March 4, and a few contestants were impressive. The expectations are high and it appears that Chmerkovskiy will bring a unique perspective to the show due to his personality and background.
