Professionalism Prevails: Sasha Farber on Emma Slater and Alan Bersten’s Relationship
In the often-dramatic world of competitive ballroom dancing, maintaining professional composure after a high-profile divorce can be challenging. However, Sasha Farber, a veteran professional on Dancing With the Stars (DWTS), has confirmed that the relationship dynamics among the cast remain entirely amicable, despite his ex-wife, Emma Slater, now dating fellow DWTS pro Alan Bersten.
Farber, speaking publicly about the situation, emphasized that there is “no weirdness” surrounding the new romance, highlighting the mature and supportive environment shared by the dancers who have become a tight-knit family over years of working together.

A History of Partnership: Farber and Slater’s Timeline
Sasha Farber and Emma Slater were one of the most beloved couples in the DWTS family, both professionally and personally. Their relationship spanned over a decade, culminating in a four-year marriage.
To understand the current dynamic, it is essential to review their timeline:
- Early 2010s: Farber and Slater begin dating after meeting as professional dancers.
- 2016: Farber proposes to Slater live on Dancing With the Stars during a broadcast.
- 2018: The couple marries in a beautiful ceremony.
- 2022: The couple separates after four years of marriage, though they continue to work together professionally on the show.
- Early 2024: Their divorce is officially finalized, marking the end of their romantic relationship.
Despite the separation and subsequent divorce, both dancers have consistently maintained a high level of professionalism and mutual respect, which is crucial given the intense, close-quarters nature of the DWTS production schedule and touring.
The New Chapter: Emma Slater and Alan Bersten
Emma Slater and Alan Bersten, who have been close friends and frequent professional partners for years, officially confirmed their romantic relationship approximately six months prior to Farber’s recent comments. The public confirmation, often referred to as a “hard launch” in celebrity circles, solidified the new pairing for fans who had long speculated about their chemistry.
When asked about his feelings regarding Slater and Bersten’s public romance, Farber offered nothing but support, demonstrating a mature approach to co-existing with an ex-spouse and her new partner in the same workplace.
“I’m so happy for her. She’s doing amazing,” Farber stated, adding context to the professional relationship he shares with Bersten. “Alan’s a great guy. We’ve known each other for years. We’re all family.”
This sentiment underscores the unique environment of Dancing With the Stars, where professional dancers often spend more time with their colleagues than their own families during the season, fostering deep, familial bonds that transcend romantic breakups.

Maintaining Professional Integrity on the Dance Floor
The ability of Farber, Slater, and Bersten to navigate this personal transition while maintaining professional integrity is a testament to their dedication to the show and their craft. The DWTS environment demands that the professional dancers remain focused, often requiring them to tour together and share rehearsal spaces.
Farber confirmed that his current focus remains squarely on his career, particularly his involvement in the demanding DWTS Live Tour. The tour requires extensive travel and performance schedules, necessitating absolute focus and a cooperative spirit among the cast members.
Key Factors Enabling the Amicable Dynamic:
- Long-standing friendships: Farber and Bersten have a history of friendship predating the new romance.
- Shared professional commitment: All three prioritize the success and continuity of the DWTS franchise and the Live Tour.
- Maturity post-divorce: The finalization of the divorce in early 2024 provided clear closure, allowing both Farber and Slater to move forward independently.
This situation provides a rare glimpse into the maturity required of reality television professionals, proving that personal history does not have to derail a successful shared career path.
Key Takeaways for DWTS Fans
For fans concerned about potential tension or drama affecting the show’s atmosphere, Sasha Farber’s comments offer definitive reassurance:
- No Drama: Farber explicitly stated there is “no weirdness” between him, Slater, and Bersten.
- Mutual Support: Farber is genuinely happy for Slater’s new relationship.
- Family First: The DWTS professional cast views themselves as a family unit, prioritizing long-term relationships over short-term romantic complications.
- Professional Focus: Farber is currently dedicated to the DWTS Live Tour, maintaining a strong professional commitment.
This amicable resolution ensures that the focus remains on the dancing and the competition, rather than backstage personal conflicts, maintaining the positive atmosphere that fans expect from the long-running reality series.
Conclusion: A Model of Professional Co-Existence
Sasha Farber’s measured and supportive response to Emma Slater and Alan Bersten’s romance serves as a model for professional co-existence in high-pressure environments. By confirming the lack of tension and emphasizing the familial bonds within the DWTS cast, Farber has successfully put to rest any speculation regarding potential awkwardness or conflict. The three professionals continue to prioritize their shared career and the integrity of the show, demonstrating that maturity and mutual respect can indeed triumph over the complexities of personal history.
Originally published: October 28, 2025
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