Early Life and Education of Maksim Chmerkovskiy: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 3, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of Maksim Chmerkovskiy, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy is a celebrated American Latin-ballroom dance champion, choreographer, and instructor. He gained widespread recognition as a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars, participating in 17 seasons. During his time on the show, he reached the finals five times, securing two runner-up and two third-place positions before winning his first title with Meryl Davis in 2014. Beyond television, Chmerkovskiy has showcased his talents on Broadway, starring in dance productions such as Burn the Floor and Forever Tango, solidifying his impact on the world of dance and entertainment.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

January 17, 1980: Maksim Chmerkovskiy Born

On January 17, 1980, Maksim Aleksandrovich Chmerkovskiy was born. He is an American Latin-ballroom dance champion, choreographer, and instructor.

1986: Birth of Valentin Chmerkovskiy

In 1986, Maksim Chmerkovskiy's younger brother, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, who is also a professional dancer, was born.

1994: Immigration to Brooklyn

In 1994, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and his family immigrated to Brooklyn, New York, facing financial and language barriers. Maksim had his roller blades stolen on his second day and he began dancing at a local Russian restaurant at age 15.

2009: Engagement to Karina Smirnoff

In 2009, Maksim Chmerkovskiy was briefly engaged to Karina Smirnoff.

2011: Studio Location Choice

In 2011, Maksim Chmerkovskiy spoke about choosing a New Jersey location for Rising Stars Dance Academy, because he wanted it to stand out in an area without similar studios.

2012: Relationship with Peta Murgatroyd

In 2012, Maksim Chmerkovskiy entered a relationship with Peta Murgatroyd.

2013: End of initial relationship with Peta Murgatroyd

In 2013, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd's initial relationship ended after ten months.

October 2014: Reconciliation with Peta Murgatroyd

In October 2014, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd reconciled after a previous breakup.

December 5, 2015: Engagement to Peta Murgatroyd

On December 5, 2015, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd got engaged during a performance of Sway: A Dance Trilogy in Miami.

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January 2017: Birth of Shai Aleksander

In January 2017, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd's son, Shai Aleksander, was born.

July 8, 2017: Marriage to Peta Murgatroyd

On July 8, 2017, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd were married in a contemporary ceremony on Long Island.

March 2022: Fleeing Ukraine due to Russian invasion

In March 2022, Maksim Chmerkovskiy fled from Ukraine to Poland due to the Russian invasion. He documented scenes from the invasion on social media and joined the #StandWithUkraine movement.