After months of speculation, flirty Instagram posts, and subtle backstage clues, Dancing With the Stars fan-favorite pros Emma Slater and Alan Bersten have officially confirmed their relationship — and they did it in the most theatrical way possible.
During the latest stop of the Dancing With the Stars Live Tour in Chicago, fans were treated to more than just a dazzling dance number. Emma and Alan surprised the audience with an onstage kiss, sending shockwaves through the crowd and the internet alike. As the final notes of their performance echoed through the venue, Alan gently lowered Emma from his arms, and the pair leaned in for a long-awaited kiss — a moment that was met with a deafening roar of cheers from the crowd.
The “Hard Launch” Everyone Was Waiting For
While romance rumors had surrounded the duo for over a year, this steamy public display marked what fans are calling the official “hard launch” of their relationship.
The chemistry between Emma and Alan has long been a topic of discussion in the DWTS fandom. From lingering glances during rehearsals to shared behind-the-scenes snaps on Instagram, the two dancers have given fans plenty to speculate about. But until now, they had stayed silent on the true nature of their relationship.
Fan videos of the kiss quickly surfaced online, with clips going viral on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and X (formerly Twitter). Viewers described the moment as “electric,” “cinematic,” and “everything we hoped it would be.”
From Subtle Clues to Full-Blown PDA
Romance rumors between the DWTS pros began heating up in late 2022. In October of that year, several sources close to the show hinted that the two had been “hooking up for a while,” though nothing was officially confirmed.
Fans started playing detective when Emma and Alan were seen getting cozy in a series of tour photos. In one December 2023 image, Emma could be seen resting her hand affectionately on top of Alan’s during a backstage moment. A candid shot shared by a fan on social media showed the pair holding hands when they thought no one was watching — fueling even more speculation.
The clues didn’t stop there. The two began exchanging flirty comments on Instagram, posting selfies together from hotel rooms, rehearsal studios, and cast dinners. While the posts were never outright romantic, the suggestive captions and cozy vibes didn’t go unnoticed.
One fan wrote on X:
“We’ve been waiting for this moment since the DWTS tour started. Emma and Alan finally kissed onstage, and the whole audience went WILD! ???????? #DWTS #EmmaAndAlan”
Emma Slater’s Past With Sasha Farber
Emma Slater was previously married to fellow DWTS professional Sasha Farber. The couple, who shared the ballroom spotlight for years, tied the knot in 2018 after dating on and off since 2011. They officially announced their separation in April 2022, and their divorce was finalized in February 2023.
Despite their split, Emma and Sasha have remained amicable and professional on the show, often sharing the stage and even rehearsing side by side during season productions.
Meanwhile, Sasha has moved on romantically and is now dating Jenn Tran, who appeared on The Bachelor and was partnered with Sasha on the most recent season of DWTS. The couple has also made their relationship public with several sweet social media posts and red carpet appearances.
Love in the Ballroom
Romance is no stranger to the Dancing With the Stars universe. Over the years, the long-running dance competition has seen numerous couples emerge from the studio — some lasting, some fleeting.
Now, with Emma and Alan confirming their real-life connection, fans are buzzing with excitement about their future both on and off the dance floor.
Alan, who won Season 28 of DWTS with Bachelorette star Hannah Brown, has always been known for his emotional storytelling and strong partner chemistry. Pairing that with Emma’s elegance, charm, and skill, the two are quickly becoming one of the show’s most beloved duos — both romantically and professionally.
Fan Reactions: “It’s Like a Real-Life Rom-Com”
The internet exploded following the kiss. Hashtags like #EmmaAndAlan, #DWTSLoveStory, and #BallroomRomance trended across platforms.
- “Emma and Alan kissing onstage is the fairytale we didn’t know we needed,” one fan wrote.
- Another posted: “Forget the scores — this is the real prize. Love in the ballroom!”
Even some DWTS cast members chimed in, congratulating the couple in Instagram comments and reposting kiss videos with heart emojis.
What’s Next for Emma and Alan?
As the DWTS Live Tour continues to travel across the U.S., there’s no doubt that all eyes will be on Emma and Alan — both for their incredible routines and their now-confirmed romance.
Fans are speculating that the next season of Dancing With the Stars could see the couple paired up for special duets or group performances. Some even wonder if wedding bells might be in their future — though neither dancer has made any such statement.
One thing’s for sure: Emma Slater and Alan Bersten have stepped into the spotlight as DWTS‘ newest power couple, and we’re all here for the ride.
Final Thoughts
In an industry where relationships often bloom under the radar, Emma and Alan’s public display of affection was a refreshing and heartwarming moment for fans. Whether you’ve followed their journey from the first whispers or just caught wind of the onstage kiss, their connection is undeniable.
From subtle signs to a show-stopping kiss, this Dancing With the Stars romance is what pop culture dreams are made of.
Stay tuned for more updates as Emma Slater and Alan Bersten continue dancing their way into each other’s hearts — and ours.
