Alan Bersten and Emma Slater: Partnership Timeline and Roles
Alan Bersten and Emma Slater are professional dancers on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) with a long, consistent partnership marked by high scores and theatrical choreography. While they have built a reputation as one of the show’s most accomplished pairs, they are not romantically involved. This overview clarifies their DWTS timeline, key competitive seasons, roles within the competition, and how their professional relationship fits within the broader cast ecosystem.
Background on Emma Slater
Career Highlights and Early Start
Emma Slater began her dancing career at a young age, training in ballroom and Latin styles in her native England before moving to the United States to pursue professional opportunities. She joined DWTS as a troupe member in 2012 and was promoted to a competing professional in 2014. Over the years, she has worked with a variety of celebrity partners, developing a reputation for precision, musicality, and strong onstage storytelling.
Notable Competitive Seasons
- Season 19 (2014): Matched with model "Dancing with the Stars" alum Alfonso Ribeiro, reaching the semifinals.
- Season 22 (2016): Partnered with actor and singer Riker Lynch, finishing in the top four.
- Season 24 (2017): Teamed with actor "Grease Live!" star Julian McCullough, again reaching the semifinals.
- Season 26 (2018): Competed with "Bachelor" star Arie Luyendyk Jr., finishing as runners-up in the competition.
- Season 28 (2020): Returned alongside rising pro Alan Bersten, marking a turning point in her partnership trajectory with him.
| Season | Celebrity Partner | Placement | Notable Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19 | Alfonso Ribeiro | Semifinals | Strong start to her DWTS competing run |
| 22 | Riker Lynch | Top 4 | First top‑four finish |
| 24 | Julian McCullough | Semifinals | Consistent high scoring |
| 26 | Arie Luyendyk Jr. | Runners-up | First finals appearance |
| 28 | Alan Bersten | Winners | First season with Bersten; championship win |
| 29 | James Van Der Beek | Top 8 | Continued high‑level performance |
| 30 | Jordan Fisher | Runners-up | Second finals appearance |
Background on Alan Bersten
Entry into Professional Dancing
Alan Bersten began his dance training early in life, focusing on ballroom and Latin disciplines before transitioning to the U.S. professional circuit. He joined the DWTS troupe in 2017 and advanced to competing professional status in subsequent seasons. Known for his athleticism and stage presence, Bersten has developed a versatile portfolio of partners and styles, often handling complex choreography with clarity and technical control.
Key Competitive Seasons
- Season 27 (2018): First televised season with partner Hannah Brown, reaching the semifinals.
- Season 28 (2020): Teamed with Emma Slater, winning the competition.
- Season 29 (2021): Reached the semifinals with partner James Van Der Beek.
- Season 30 (2022): Competed with Jordan Fisher, finishing as runners-up.
- Season 32 (2024): Returned with singer "JoJo" Siwa, extending his streak of deep runs.
| Season | Celebrity Partner | Placement | Notable Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | Hannah Brown | Semifinals | Strong competitive debut |
| 28 | Emma Slater | Winners | First championship; peak partnership season |
| 29 | James Van Der Beek | Semifinals | Consistent scoring |
| 30 | Jordan Fisher | Runners-up | Second finals appearance |
| 32 | JoJo Siwa | Top 8 | Extended longevity on the tour |
Partnership History Between Alan Bersten and Emma Slater
Seasons as Competing Partners
Bersten and Slater have formed one of the most reliable winning teams in recent DWTS history. Their first full season together was Season 28 (2020), where they combined strong technique, creative choreography, and consistent judge favor to claim the Mirrorball Trophy. They also appeared together in the All-Stars season (not numbered in the main competition flow) for a special exhibition performance, reinforcing their reputation as a top professional duo. Beyond that head-to-head season, they have rarely been paired in standard competition brackets, maintaining a focused partnership when they do team up.
Performance Style and Reception
Their collaborations typically emphasize clean lines, precise footwork, and a balance between theatrical storytelling and technical execution. Judges have repeatedly highlighted their synchronicity and musical interpretation. Fan reception has been strongly positive, with many viewers appreciating their consistent high scores and the chemistry they bring to the ballroom. They have not been linked romantically outside of their professional roles; DWTS producers and both dancers have clarified that their connection is strictly professional and rooted in mutual respect for the craft.
Clarifying Public Misconceptions
Relationship Status and Rumors
Periodic rumors about a romantic link between Bersten and Slater surface due to their close working relationship and long history on the show. However, multiple statements from the couple, producers, and reputable entertainment outlets confirm they are friends and professional partners. Their onscreen warmth is a product of effective choreography and performance rather than a reflection of private relationships. In interviews, both have emphasized their commitment to their respective personal lives outside of the DWTS environment.
Impact on Competitive Trajectories
Teaming up in Season 28 was a career milestone for both dancers. For Slater, it represented her first championship; for Bersten, it solidified his status as a top-tier professional capable of delivering under pressure. Their collaborative success has led to continued opportunities, including multiple return seasons and special appearances. Because of their mutual respect and reliable execution, they remain a favored pairing among producers when assembling high-stakes routines.
Current Status and Professional Trajectory
Recent Seasons and Future Outlook
As of the most recent DWTS cycles, both Alan Bersten and Emma Slater continue to be active competing professionals. Bersten has maintained a streak of deep runs across several seasons, while Slater has balanced competition with choreography and guest appearances. They have not announced any plans to retire from the competition and remain open to future collaborations when scheduling aligns. Their ongoing partnership serves as a model of consistency and professionalism in an otherwise highly variable competition landscape.
- They are respected peers within the DWTS professional dancer community.
- No romantic relationship exists; interactions are strictly work-focused during competitions.
- Continued participation in DWTS is likely, subject to scheduling and producer needs.