Alan Bersten is a premier American professional Latin and ballroom dancer, choreographer, and television personality, best known for his long-term role as a professional partner on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). A former finalist on So You Think You Can Dance, Bersten has achieved significant acclaim, including winning the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 28 and the inaugural season of DWTS: Juniors.
Throughout his career, Bersten has transitioned from a competitive youth dancer in Minnesota to a central figure in American dance television. His profile is defined by technical precision, a background spanning multiple disciplines—including contemporary and jazz—and a reputation for being one of the most versatile and patient instructors in the industry. As of 2026, he continues to be a staple of the professional ballroom circuit and a featured performer in national live tours.
Early Life and the Foundations of a Professional Dancer
Born on May 26, 1994, in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Alan Bersten’s journey into the world of dance was heavily influenced by his family’s heritage and his local community. Raised in a family of Russian immigrants, the discipline and cultural appreciation for ballroom dance were present from a young age. His parents, Alex and Raisa Bersten, encouraged his artistic pursuits, which began in earnest at the age of seven.
Bersten was not the only dancer in the family; his older brother, Gene Bersten, was also a competitive dancer and served as an early mentor and coach. This familial support system allowed Alan to immerse himself in the rigors of the competitive ballroom circuit. During his youth, he trained extensively at several prestigious studios, mastering the ten-point system of ballroom and Latin dance (which includes styles like the Waltz, Tango, Cha-Cha, and Rumba).
By the time he reached his teenage years, Bersten was already a decorated competitive dancer. He attended Hopkins High School while simultaneously traveling for competitions. His technical foundation was furthered by his ability to cross-train; unlike many ballroom specialists who focus solely on partner dancing, Bersten incorporated contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop into his repertoire. This stylistic breadth would later become his greatest asset on reality television, where genre-crossing is a weekly requirement.
The Breakthrough: So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD)
In 2013, at the age of 19, Alan Bersten gained national recognition as a contestant on the tenth season of Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance. His audition immediately set him apart, showcasing a level of maturity and technical "lines" that are often difficult for ballroom dancers to translate into solo performances.
During Season 10, Bersten reached the Top 6 among the male dancers. This experience was pivotal for several reasons:
- Versatility Testing: He was required to perform routines outside his comfort zone, including demanding contemporary pieces and high-energy hip-hop numbers.
- Public Exposure: He became a fan favorite, known for his "boy next door" charm and his ability to elevate his partners.
- Professional Networking: The show allowed him to work with world-class choreographers, many of whom also worked on Dancing with the Stars.
While he did not win the title of "America’s Favorite Dancer," his performance on SYTYCD served as a de facto audition for the DWTS producers. His ability to handle the pressure of live television and his innate capability for choreography were evident, leading to his recruitment for the DWTS troupe shortly thereafter.
The Journey on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS)
Alan Bersten officially joined the Dancing with the Stars troupe in Season 20 (2015). The troupe consists of professional dancers who perform in opening numbers and transition segments but are not yet paired with celebrity partners. This role is often seen as a training ground where prospective "Pros" demonstrate their ability to teach and their chemistry with the audience.
The Transition to "Pro" Status
Bersten’s transition to a full Professional Partner was unique. In Season 24 (2017), he was called upon to fill in for veteran pro Maksim Chmerkovskiy, who had suffered a calf injury. Bersten partnered with celebrity Heather Morris (of Glee fame) for several weeks. His performance during this period was widely praised; he managed to keep the partnership competitive despite the sudden change in dynamics. This successful "trial run" solidified his promotion.
He was officially promoted to a Pro Partner in Season 25, where he was paired with 1980s pop icon Debbie Gibson. Although they were eliminated relatively early, Bersten’s career trajectory continued upward.
The Mirrorball Victory with Hannah Brown
The pinnacle of Bersten’s competitive career on DWTS occurred in Season 28 (2019). He was paired with Hannah Brown, the former star of The Bachelorette. The season was characterized by high emotional stakes and intense scrutiny. Bersten’s choreography for Brown was lauded for its storytelling and technical difficulty, particularly their contemporary routine and their final Freestyle.
Their victory was a significant milestone for Bersten, as it occurred during a season with major changes to the show’s voting format and judging criteria. Winning the Mirrorball Trophy cemented his status as one of the show's elite choreographers.
Professional Milestone: DWTS Juniors and Mentorship
In 2018, Bersten took on a different role as a mentor for the first season of Dancing with the Stars: Juniors. This spin-off featured celebrity children paired with professional junior ballroom dancers. Bersten mentored the team of Mackenzie Ziegler (from Dance Moms) and junior pro Sage Rosen.
The mentorship role required Bersten to oversee the choreography and training of his team while navigating the specific developmental needs of younger performers. His team went on to win the competition, making Bersten the first (and only) pro to win the inaugural season of the Juniors franchise. This victory highlighted his pedagogical skills and his ability to translate complex ballroom concepts for a younger generation.
Professional Statistics and Competitive Record
As of the 2025-2026 period, Alan Bersten’s record on Dancing with the Stars and other major competitions reflects a high level of consistency. The following table outlines his participation and key placements:
| Season/Show | Partner / Role | Result / Placement | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYTYCD Season 10 | Soloist | Top 6 (Male) | Breakthrough performance in Latin Ballroom |
| DWTS Season 24 | Heather Morris (Stand-in) | 8th Place | Filled in for Maksim Chmerkovskiy |
| DWTS Season 25 | Debbie Gibson | 12th Place | First official season as a Pro Partner |
| DWTS Season 26 | Mirai Nagasu | 4th Place | Reached the Finals in the "Athletes" season |
| DWTS Season 27 | Alexis Ren | 4th Place | Finalist; praised for technical chemistry |
| DWTS: Juniors S1 | Mackenzie Ziegler / Sage Rosen | Winner | First win as a Mentor/Coach |
| DWTS Season 28 | Hannah Brown | Winner | Won the Mirrorball Trophy |
| DWTS Season 29 | Skai Jackson | 5th Place | Notable for high-energy Jazz and Samba |
| DWTS Season 30 | Amanda Kloots | 4th Place | Strong emotional storytelling in routines |
| DWTS Season 31 | Gabby Windey | 2nd Place | Runner-up; highly technical contemporary |
| DWTS Season 32 | Jamie Lynn Spears | 11th Place | Early season focus on ballroom fundamentals |
Health Challenges and Resilience
A significant aspect of Alan Bersten’s profile is his resilience in the face of health challenges. In 2018, while participating in the DWTS Live tour, Bersten began experiencing unusual symptoms, including fatigue. After medical consultations, he was diagnosed with a tumor on his parathyroid gland.
The diagnosis was a potential career-threatener, as surgery was required near his vocal cords and neck muscles—critical areas for a dancer. Bersten underwent successful surgery to remove the tumor. His recovery was remarkably swift; he returned to the dance floor shortly after the procedure, using his platform to raise awareness about thyroid and parathyroid health. This experience added a layer of depth to his public persona, as fans admired his transparency regarding his health and his dedication to returning to his craft.
Technical Analysis of Bersten’s Choreographic Style
Alan Bersten is frequently noted by judges like Len Goodman and Derek Hough for his "purity of form." His choreographic style is defined by several key elements:
- Frame and Posture: Coming from a rigorous ballroom background, Bersten emphasizes the importance of the "frame" in standard dances like the Quickstep and Foxtrot. He often focuses on his partner's top-line and core stability.
- Contemporary Infusion: Because of his SYTYCD training, Bersten is exceptionally skilled at "Contemporary" weeks. He incorporates lifts and floorwork that are often more advanced than those of pros who only have a ballroom background.
- Theatricality: Bersten’s routines often feature a strong narrative arc. Whether it is a romantic Rumba or a high-octane Paso Doble, he ensures that the "character" of the dance is as prominent as the steps.
- Adaptability: One of his greatest strengths is tailoring choreography to his partner's physical limitations or strengths. For instance, when working with athletes like Mirai Nagasu, he leaned into their flexibility and power, whereas with partners like Hannah Brown, he focused on emotional expression and vulnerability.
Current Standing and Professional Outlook in 2026
As of 2026, Alan Bersten remains one of the most recognizable faces in the American dance industry. He continues to appear on Dancing with the Stars, now as one of the senior pros who provides stability to the cast. His involvement in the show has expanded beyond just performing; he is often involved in the creative direction of the DWTS Live tours, which travel across North America during the television off-season.
Beyond television, Bersten has ventured into the digital space, launching fitness and dance-oriented programs. These initiatives allow fans to learn basic ballroom steps and improve their physical health through dance-based workouts. His presence on social media remains influential, where he shares behind-the-scenes looks at the life of a professional dancer, maintaining a high level of engagement with the "DWTS" fanbase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alan Bersten’s professional dance background?
Alan Bersten is primarily trained in Latin and ballroom dance but possesses significant expertise in contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop. He began dancing at age seven and competed nationally throughout his youth before appearing on So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing with the Stars.
Has Alan Bersten won a Mirrorball Trophy?
Yes, Alan Bersten won the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 28 of Dancing with the Stars while partnered with Hannah Brown. He also won the first season of Dancing with the Stars: Juniors as a mentor to Mackenzie Ziegler and Sage Rosen.
Did Alan Bersten have a health scare during his career?
In early 2018, Bersten was diagnosed with a parathyroid tumor. He underwent surgery to have the tumor removed and made a full recovery, returning to the show and national tours shortly thereafter. He has since become an advocate for regular health screenings.
Is Alan Bersten still on Dancing with the Stars in 2026?
As of 2026, Alan Bersten continues to be a featured professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars. He is considered a veteran member of the cast and frequently participates in the show's national live tours and special performances.
Where is Alan Bersten originally from?
Alan Bersten was born and raised in Minnetonka, Minnesota. He comes from a family of Russian heritage, and his older brother, Gene Bersten, is also a professional dancer and instructor.
Final Recommendation
For those looking to follow Alan Bersten’s career or learn from his expertise, the best course of action is to monitor his participation in the annual Dancing with the Stars seasons and the subsequent live tours. Aspiring dancers can find value in studying his early SYTYCD performances to understand the importance of versatility in the modern dance industry. Additionally, his focus on parathyroid health serves as an important reminder for athletes to prioritize medical check-ups even during the peak of their professional careers.
