In a surprising turn for the latest season of the hit dance competition, newcomer professional dancer Jan Ravnik—best known for his work on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour—has become the focus of sharp criticism from former stars of the show. 

Maks Chmerkovskiy, a long-time professional on Dancing with the Stars, took aim at Ravnik’s appointment as a pro, saying the choice was “absurd” and suggesting Ravnik lacked the foundational ballroom training required for the role.

Chmerkovskiy noted that while he means no personal ill-will toward Ravnik, he still questioned the decision to cast someone with a non-traditional ballroom background to teach a celebrity contestant, as per Daily Mail.

“There’s zero foundation, technique, quality, understanding of the partnership,” he said.

Ravnik, paired with celebrity contestant Jen Affleck this season, responded diplomatically by posting a lyric from a Taylor Swift song on his social-media account.

 Later, he told press that he has “no comment” on the criticism while calling out what he described as negativity from “those trying to stay relevant.”

The debate has reignited conversation about casting priorities on the show and whether celebrity appeal and entertainment value are overtaking technical dance expertise.