5 Surprising Facts About Ilona Maher And Alan Bersten's Relationship Status And 2025 Reunion

The irresistible chemistry between Olympic rugby star Ilona Maher and professional dancer Alan Bersten captured the hearts of millions during their run on Dancing with the Stars. Their dynamic partnership, which viewers quickly dubbed a "showmance," fueled intense speculation about whether their connection extended beyond the ballroom and into a real-life romance. As of December 2024, the duo—affectionately known as "Team MaBer"—has officially addressed the constant dating rumors, providing clarity on their true status while announcing exciting news about their future together.

The pair’s journey from fierce competitors to beloved runners-up on DWTS Season 33 has solidified their place as one of the show's most memorable partnerships. Their playful banter, genuine support for one another, and explosive performances, like their viral Rumba and powerful Viennese Waltz, created a bond that continues to be a major talking point for fans. While the romance may be off the table, their professional collaboration is far from over, with a major reunion already slated for the new year.

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten: Complete Biography and Career Highlights

The foundation of "Team MaBer’s" success lies in the individual achievements and contrasting yet complementary careers of its two members. Ilona Maher brought the discipline of an elite athlete, while Alan Bersten brought the expertise of a seasoned ballroom champion.

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Ilona Maher: The Olympic Rugby Star

• Full Name: Ilona Delsing Rosa Maher OLY
• Born: August 12, 1996, in Burlington, Vermont, USA.
• Primary Career: American rugby union player and social media personality.
• Education: Attended Quinnipiac University, where she won three consecutive National Intercollegiate Rugby Association (NIRA) titles.
• Olympic Achievements: Represented the United States in Women's Rugby Sevens at both the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she earned a Bronze Medal.
• Reality TV: Runner-up on Dancing with the Stars Season 33 with Alan Bersten.
• Public Persona: Known for her humorous and candid social media content, often focusing on body positivity and redefining femininity in sports.

Alan Bersten: The DWTS Champion

• Full Name: Alan Bersten
• Born: May 26, 1994, in Edina, Minnesota, USA.
• Primary Career: Professional ballroom dancer and choreographer.
• Early Career: Gained national recognition as a contestant on Season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD).
• DWTS Career: Joined Dancing with the Stars as a troupe member in Season 20 and was promoted to a full-time professional partner in Season 25.
• Championship: Won the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 28 with his celebrity partner, former Bachelorette star Hannah Brown.
• Notable Partnerships: Has reached the semi-finals multiple times with partners including Mirai Nagasu (Season 26) and Skai Jackson (Season 29), and finished as a runner-up with Ilona Maher (Season 33).

The True Dynamic: Why Ilona and Alan Are Not Dating

The question that dominated the DWTS Season 33 conversation was simple: Are Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten dating? Despite the undeniable closeness and palpable energy between them on the dance floor, the answer, as confirmed by both parties as recently as December 2024, is a definitive no.

The fan-driven "shipping" was a natural reaction to their successful partnership. The two shared a dynamic characterized by laughter, mutual respect, and a unique, playful energy that felt electric. Ilona herself addressed the rumors, clarifying that while she "loves" Alan, it is in the context of loving a teammate and a special friend.

Their bond is often described by fans and commentators as having "sibling energy," a testament to their deep, non-romantic connection. Alan, known for his ability to form strong bonds with his partners, emphasized that what made his relationship with Ilona special was the genuine acceptance and the fun they had together, noting their similar personalities.

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Ilona also spoke candidly about how Alan’s partnership made her feel, a significant point for the powerful rugby player. She shared that Alan helped her feel "feminine" and never pressured her to change who she was, a powerful statement that highlights the depth and positivity of their platonic bond.

The 2025 Reunion: Team MaBer Hits the Road

For fans disappointed that the dance floor romance didn't translate into a real-life couple, there is a major silver lining: Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten are officially reuniting for the Dancing with the Stars 2025 Live Tour.

This announcement, made shortly after the conclusion of their successful competitive season, confirms that their partnership is a professional powerhouse that audiences can’t get enough of. The tour will give "Team MaBer" the opportunity to perform their most popular dances live for audiences across the country, keeping their infectious energy alive well into the new year.

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Furthermore, the pair has maintained their public connection even after their season ended. They recently reunited on the DWTS stage for the dedication night of Season 34, proving that their friendship is a lasting one beyond the competition.

The 2025 tour is a crucial entity in the ongoing narrative of Ilona and Alan. It signifies that the demand for their unique chemistry—a blend of Ilona’s powerhouse moves and Alan’s masterful choreography—is high, and they are committed to delivering that experience to their dedicated fanbase, regardless of their non-romantic status.

The Legacy of Team MaBer: Redefining DWTS Partnerships

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten’s journey on Dancing with the Stars Season 33 is a case study in how a partnership can be wildly successful and deeply engaging without relying on the traditional "showmance" narrative. Their legacy is built on several key factors:

• Authenticity: Ilona’s candid nature and Alan’s supportive teaching style resonated with viewers who appreciated their genuine, unscripted connection.
• Skill and Dedication: Despite Ilona’s lack of formal dance training, her athletic discipline from her Women's Rugby Sevens career allowed her to quickly master complex routines like the Samba and Quickstep, leading them to an impressive second-place finish.
• Redefining Femininity: Ilona used her platform to challenge stereotypes, showing that an Olympic Bronze Medalist in a physically demanding sport could also embrace the glamour and grace of ballroom dancing. Alan’s partnership was instrumental in this narrative.

The "Team MaBer" phenomenon proves that a strong, supportive, and entertaining friendship can be just as compelling—if not more so—than a romantic entanglement on reality television. Their upcoming 2025 Live Tour is the ultimate victory lap for a partnership that truly transcended the competition.