5 Shocking Truths About Meryl And Maks: What Happened After Their Iconic DWTS Win?

The enduring chemistry of Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy remains one of the most talked-about phenomena in reality television history. Nearly a decade after their monumental victory on *Dancing with the Stars* Season 18, the question of whether their on-screen "showmance" ever blossomed into a real-life romance continues to fuel fan speculation, even as both stars have built families with other partners. As of December 2025, their professional bond is as strong as ever, and their lives have taken fascinating, parallel paths that prove a deep connection doesn't always have to be romantic. This deep dive uncovers the definitive truth about the "Maksyl" phenomenon, detailing their separate lives as Olympic champions and ballroom legends, and providing the latest updates on their family lives and recent reunions. The reality of their relationship is far more complex—and perhaps more beautiful—than any scripted romance.

Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy: Full Biography and Career Milestones

The foundation of the "Maksyl" appeal lies in the stark contrast and ultimate harmony between the Olympic ice dancer and the "bad boy" ballroom pro. Both have achieved legendary status in their respective fields.

Meryl Davis: The Ice Dancing Champion

• Full Name: Meryl Elizabeth Davis
• Born: January 1, 1987 (Age 38 as of 2025)
• Hometown: Royal Oak, Michigan, U.S.
• Primary Career: Former competitive ice dancer.
• Key Partner: Charlie White (Longtime ice dancing partner).
• Major Achievements: 2014 Olympic Gold Medalist (Ice Dance), 2010 Olympic Silver Medalist, two-time World Champion (2011, 2013).
• DWTS Win: Season 18 (2014) with Maksim Chmerkovskiy.
• Spouse: Fedor Andreev (Married 2019), a former professional figure skater and Moscow-born entrepreneur.
• Children: Meryl and Fedor have one child, a son, born in 2023.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy: The Ballroom Legend

• Full Name: Maksim Aleksandrovich Chmerkovskiy
• Born: January 17, 1980 (Age 45 as of 2025)
• Hometown: Odesa, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union (now Ukraine).
• Primary Career: Professional ballroom dancer, choreographer, and instructor.
• DWTS Tenure: Competed in 17 seasons of *Dancing with the Stars*.
• DWTS Win: Season 18 (2014) with Meryl Davis (his first and only win).
• Spouse: Peta Murgatroyd (Married 2017), a fellow DWTS professional dancer.
• Children: Three sons: Shai Aleksander (born 2017), Rio John (born 2023), and Milan Maksim (born July 2024).
• Brother: Valentin Chmerkovskiy, also a professional DWTS dancer.

The Definitive Truth Behind the 'Maksyl' Showmance

The intense speculation surrounding Meryl and Maks's relationship was a defining feature of *DWTS* Season 18. Their emotional dances, including a breathtaking Foxtrot/Cha-Cha fusion in the finale, led many viewers to believe they were secretly dating. However, the reality, which both have confirmed repeatedly since their win, is a strong, platonic connection.

1. They Were Never Romantically Involved

Despite the palpable on-screen chemistry, Meryl and Maks were never a couple. The rumors reached a fever pitch, but Meryl publicly stated, "We're not dating." The intense emotional bond fans witnessed was a reflection of their shared dedication and the unique, intimate nature of the ballroom dance partnership, not a romantic one. This dynamic was a major factor in them winning the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.

2. Both Were in Serious Relationships During DWTS

Unknown to many viewers, both Meryl and Maks were already involved in other significant relationships during their time on the show. Meryl was dating Fedor Andreev, whom she would later marry. Maksim, meanwhile, was secretly rekindling his relationship with Peta Murgatroyd, whom he would marry in 2017. The show's focus on the "showmance" helped keep the actual relationships private, a common tactic in reality TV.

3. Maks’s Win Was a Career-Defining Moment

Maksim Chmerkovskiy had competed in 17 seasons of *DWTS* before finally winning the Mirrorball Trophy with Meryl Davis. This victory was a massive personal and professional milestone for Maks, who had long been the show's charismatic "bad boy" without a title. He has since stated that he will not return to *DWTS* as a competitor, making his Season 18 win a perfect, career-capping moment.

Where Are Meryl and Maks Now? Family Life and 2025 Reunions

The most current information about Meryl and Maks centers on their successful family lives and their continued professional collaborations, which satisfy the fan base's desire to see them dance together.

4. Maks and Peta Are Raising Three Sons

Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd are one of the most famous couples in the ballroom world. As of December 2025, they are busy raising their three young sons: Shai, Rio, and the newest addition, Milan, who was born in July 2024. Maks’s life is now centered on his family and his business ventures, including his dance studio and his touring show, *SWAY – A Dance Trilogy*.

5. Their Professional Reunion is a Recurring Event

While they are happily married to other people, Meryl and Maks have repeatedly reunited on the dance floor for professional engagements. The most recent news confirms that they continue to perform together in Maksim's *SWAY* show. These reunions, which often feature other DWTS pros like Maks's brother Valentin Chmerkovskiy, allow fans to relive the magic of "Maksyl" without the romantic speculation. A notable reunion was scheduled for December 17th as part of the *SWAY* tour, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining their iconic partnership as a professional act. The partnership between Meryl Davis and Maksim Chmerkovskiy is a powerful testament to the fact that the deepest connections can be platonic. Their shared journey from the *DWTS* ballroom to their current roles as parents and stars in their own right has solidified their status as one of the most beloved pairings in the show's history. The "Maksyl" legacy is not one of a failed romance, but of a triumphant, enduring friendship.