Val Chmerkovskiy Defends Niece Hailey Bills Against 'Nepo-Baby' Claims

Val Chmerkovskiy, a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars, has stepped in to defend his niece, Hailey Bills, following accusations that she secured her position through family connections rather than talent.

Chmerkovskiy’s Instagram Response

The controversy stems from a Hollywood Reporter article featuring the headline: “How ‘DWTS’ Pro Hailey Bills Is Using Her Nepo Baby Status to Dance Her Way to the Top.” Chmerkovskiy encountered this piece via Instagram and used the platform’s comment section to voice his objection.

Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson pose on the RJ Decker set

In his post, Chmerkovskiy described the headline as “nonsense” and asserted that Bills is not merely qualified but potentially “overqualified” by certain metrics. He emphasized that while she still has room for growth, the suggestion that she received undue assistance ignores her extensive background. The dancer noted that Bills possesses a “quality and range of movement” that speaks for itself, calling her “best and brightest” and stating he would advocate for her regardless of their familial tie.

Bills’ Background and Current Season

Hailey Bills, 20, entered the competition after serving in the DWTS troupe during the previous season. She was promoted to the professional roster for the current series, where she partnered with Sarah Jane Nader. The duo was eliminated in the second round of the competition.

Emma Slater's season 35 DWTS photo

Bills is the daughter of Stacy Bills, who is the older sister of Jenna Johnson. Both Johnson and Chmerkovskiy are established professional dancers on the show, making them Bills’ aunt and uncle by marriage.

Colleague Support

Emma Slater, another professional on the dance floor, also addressed the issue. She commented on the situation with the phrase, “Yeah this headline though,” signaling agreement with Chmerkovskiy’s criticism of the media portrayal.

Daniella Karagach, another DWTS pro, offered support for Bills in the same thread. Her comment read simply, “You’re the best and brightest,” reinforcing the sentiment that the dancer’s skills warrant recognition independent of her family ties.