For years, fans of Dancing With the Stars watched Emma Slater and Alan Bersten share the ballroom floor as friends and colleagues. As of September 2026, that dynamic has evolved into a full fledged romance that is currently being tested on the competitive stage of Season 35. While the show is known for its intense pressure, Emma and Alan have managed to turn their professional rivalry into a source of mutual support.
The 2026 Status: Competing Together in Season 35
The 35th season of Dancing With the Stars premiered on 15 September 2026, and the stakes are higher than ever for the show’s resident power couple. Emma Slater, now 37, is partnered with Savannah Bananas player Jackson Olson. Meanwhile, 32 year old Alan Bersten is teaching the ropes to celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis, who joined the show after her daughter Jade Thompson left for college.
Despite the fact that they are technically rivals vying for the same trophy, their relationship remains the bedrock of their season. They have publicly stated that they use their off screen time to ground one another. This includes sharing meals, traveling between show dates, and spending time with their dog, Jeff, who frequently travels with them to production sites.
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The Romance Timeline: From Friends to Partners
The transition from colleagues to lovers did not happen overnight. Emma and Alan shared a professional friendship for over ten years before things took a romantic turn.
Key Milestones in the Relationship
- October 2024: Rumors began to swirl when sources reported the two were officially dating. Insiders noted at the time that the romance was not a sudden spark but an ongoing development built on a decade of trust.
- April 2025: The couple chose the final night of the Dancing With the Stars Live 2025 tour to go public. During the performance, they shared a kiss on stage, sending social media into a frenzy.
- June 2025: In a joint interview, Alan admitted he had been nervous about the public display of affection, even asking Emma for permission before the tour kiss took place.
- May 2026: Emma posted a heartwarming tribute for Alan’s 32nd birthday, reflecting on how they have known each other since he was 21 years old.
Public Confirmation: The Tour Kiss and Social Media
Validation of their relationship came in waves. While the April 2025 kiss was the definitive moment for the public, their social media presence throughout 2025 and 2026 has offered a deeper look into their bond.
In July 2026, the couple delighted fans by recreating a photo shoot they had done together ten years prior. This highlighted just how much they have grown together since their early days on the series. Their digital footprint is filled with affectionate posts, including a November 2025 photo where Emma joked about Alan kissing her with his eyes open while in their dance costumes.
Balancing Love and Professional Rivalry
One of the biggest questions fans ask is how two professional athletes manage to date while competing for the same prize. Emma explained after the September 2026 premiere that having a partner who understands the high pressure environment is actually a massive advantage.
| Feature | Emma’s Season 35 Approach | Alan’s Season 35 Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Partner | Jackson Olson (Athlete) | Giada De Laurentiis (Chef) |
| Choreography Style | High energy, social media savvy | Technical precision, elegant |
| Support Role | Offers feedback on Alan’s videos | Provides emotional stability during stress |
| Primary Goal | Maintaining fun and kindness | Creating lasting personal memories |
They have developed a collaborative system where they watch each other’s rehearsal videos and offer honest, constructive feedback. Emma describes Alan as her confidant, someone she can rely on for professional advice without the fear of judgment or sabotage.
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Life Off the Dance Floor: Travel and Dog Jeff
When the cameras are off, Emma and Alan prioritize their private life to avoid burnout. In May 2025, they took a high profile vacation to Hawaii, exploring Kauai through kayaking and visiting remote waterfalls. Alan later described this trip as a vital moment for them to stay off the grid and focus solely on their connection.
Their summer of 2026 was equally adventurous. The couple spent time biking through New York City and visiting several European cities before returning to Los Angeles for Season 35 rehearsals. A central figure in their domestic life is their dog, Jeff. Emma often credits Jeff for bringing a smile to her face during the most stressful weeks of production, calling him a key part of their small family unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Are Emma Slater and Alan Bersten still together in 2026?
Yes, as of 23 September 2026, the couple is still together and actively competing against each other on Season 35 of Dancing With the Stars.
2.When did they officially start dating?
While rumors began in October 2024, they officially confirmed their status to the public with a kiss during the live tour in April 2025.
3.Who are their partners for Season 35?
Emma is paired with Savannah Bananas star Jackson Olson, while Alan is paired with celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis.
4.Do they help each other with choreography?
Yes. Emma and Alan have stated that they regularly watch each other’s rehearsal videos and provide honest feedback to improve their respective routines.
As the 2026 season continues, fans will undoubtedly be watching for more than just the scores. The relationship between Emma and Alan has become a centerpiece of the show’s community, proving that even in a cutthroat competition, kindness and support can lead to a winning partnership.
