Maksim Chmerkovskiy Releases Statement On ‘DWTS’ Departure

The cast of Dancing With The Stars was revealed today and there was one name noticeably absent from the list: Maksim Chmerkovskiy.

Rumors have been circling around Chmerkovskiy’s departure from DWTS and the reason for his exist hasn’t really been made clear. The dancing pro released a statement about his departure from the show today but still didn’t clarify the reason behind his exit.

Chmerkovskiy said:

“I just want to set the record straight to all of my amazing fans that I will unfortunately not be returning for this season of “Dancing With the Stars.” I’ve been a pro dancer on the show for about seven years now and am eager to explore other opportunities that have been made possible because of the show. I’m going to take this time to dive into producing and acting, while fulfilling my sponsorship obligations. A big thank you to all of my fans for your never-ending support. I also want to thank the entire cast and production of “Dancing With the Stars.”

According to the Seattle PI, Chmerkovskiy’s contract with Dancing With The Stars doesn’t end until 2015. There’s a chance that Maksim makes a return next season but the dancing pro will be perusing other opportunities this year.

Chmerkovskiy told Access Hollywood:

“I’m still part of the show. I’m still under contract. I’m not on this season. A lot of things were considered and they were gracious to let me pursue other things. There are a lot of projects that I’m interested in. When the time comes for the next season, we’ll talk about it then. I’m pursing some things that I’ve always been interested in.”

Maksim Chmerkovskiy has been on Dancing With The Stars since the second season. He’s never won the mirror ball trophy but he has taken a few podium finishes.