Karina Smirnoff Thrives Post-‘Dancing With the Stars’ Exit
Karina Smirnoff, renowned for her role on Dancing With the Stars, has embraced a new chapter in her life since leaving the show after its 22nd season. The professional dancer, who joined the series in 2006, has successfully transitioned from the ballroom to various opportunities beyond television.
Smirnoff first gained widespread recognition during season 3, where she was partnered with Mario Lopez. Their impressive performance culminated in a second-place finish, solidifying Smirnoff’s position as a talented choreographer on the show. She ultimately captured her first and only mirrorball trophy in 2011 alongside J.R. Martinez. After five more years on the series, she announced her departure in February 2015, stating her desire to explore new ventures, including writing a book.
In her heartfelt Instagram post, Smirnoff expressed gratitude for her time on the show and emphasized her passion for dance, choreography, and creativity. Shortly after her announcement, she published her debut book, We’re Just Not That Into You: Dating Disasters From the Trenches. Although she initially left the competition, Smirnoff returned to the ballroom for seasons 21 and 22, partnering with Victor Espinoza and Doug Flutie, respectively. She exited the show for good following her elimination with Flutie, finishing in ninth place.
While her time on DWTS marked a significant chapter in her career, Smirnoff has not entirely stepped away from dance. She continues to share her expertise by teaching masterclasses and dance intensives around the world. In a recent interview with San Francisco’s KRON 4, she highlighted the competitive atmosphere in dance, noting, “Everyone wants to enjoy when they dance, but they also want to win. Once the music is on, all the competition goes to the side and people just truly enjoy dancing.”
In addition to her coaching career, Smirnoff is also a devoted mother to her son, Theo, born in 2020. Although she has chosen to keep details about Theo’s father private, she has openly discussed the challenges of first-time motherhood. In an interview with Us Weekly, she shared her initial anxiety about caring for a newborn.
“I love babies, but when I would come to my friends who had a newborn and they were like, ‘Here, hold,’ I panicked thinking, ‘OK, the baby’s going to be born and I’m not even going to know how to change a diaper,’” she recalled. Smirnoff moved in with her parents briefly to adjust to the demands of parenthood, appreciating their support during this transitional period.
As Smirnoff continues to navigate her multifaceted career and motherhood, her passion for dance remains evident. Whether through teaching or engaging with her audience, she has successfully maintained her connection to the art form that brought her fame. With a bright future ahead, Karina Smirnoff exemplifies resilience and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment.
