Brief Introduction of Emma Slater
Emma Louise Slater is a distinguished English-American professional dancer and choreographer who has captivated audiences worldwide with her exceptional talent and vibrant personality. She is best known for her role as a professional dancer on the acclaimed ABC competition series, Dancing with the Stars. Slater’s journey in the world of dance began at a very young age, leading her to excel in competitive ballroom and Latin dance. Her career has spanned across various platforms, including theater productions in London’s West End, international dance tours, and appearances in music videos and film. Her dedication and skill culminated in a celebrated victory on Dancing with the Stars, where she won the coveted Mirrorball Trophy in season 24. Beyond her performances, Slater is recognized for her creative choreography and her engaging presence both on and off the dance floor, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Emma Slater Overview
| Full Name | Emma Louise Slater |
| Date of Birth | December 25, 1988 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 36 |
| Birthplace | Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, England |
| Profession | Professional Dancer, Choreographer |
| Husband/Wife | Sasha Farber (m. 2018; div. 2023) |
| Family | Robin Slater (Father), Kelly Slater (Twin Sister) |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Alan Bersten |
| Net Worth | Approximately $300,000 |
Early Life and Education of Emma Slater
Emma Louise Slater was born on Christmas Day, 1988, in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands, England, and was raised in the nearby town of Tamworth, Staffordshire. She shares a special bond with her twin sister, Kelly Slater, who works as a costume designer and stylist, including for Dancing with the Stars. From a very early age, Slater exhibited a profound passion for dance. She began her formal training at local stage schools, and by the age of 10, she was immersed in the world of ballroom and Latin dance. Her dedication to the craft was evident as she began competing shortly after, quickly making a name for herself in the English competitive dance circuit. While specific details about her formal academic education are not widely publicized, her primary focus from her teenage years was her burgeoning dance career, which involved rigorous training and participation in numerous competitions across the United Kingdom.
Emma Slater’s Career
Emma Slater’s professional career took flight at the young age of 15, when she was featured in the George Michael music video for “Round Here”. This was soon followed by an appearance in the fitness video “Latinasize”. At 16, her stage career began in earnest as she joined the UK tour of the renowned production “Simply Ballroom,” which also had runs in the United Arab Emirates and South Africa. This experience led to her appearing on “Strictly Come Dancing: South Africa”.
Her theatrical journey continued with a move to London’s prestigious West End. There, she was a featured performer in “Dirty Dancing” at the Aldwych Theatre, where she also understudied the principal role of Lisa Houseman. Slater’s West End credits also include “Cheek to Cheek” at The Coliseum and “Latin Fever” at The Peacock Theatre. In 2009, she joined the internationally acclaimed dance show “Burn the Floor,” performing as a lead dancer on Broadway and in its extensive world tour, which included stops in China, Australia, and across Europe and North America.
In 2008, Slater made her silver screen debut with a role in the hit movie musical Mamma Mia!, starring Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan. She was not only a featured dancer but also contributed to the film’s Grammy-nominated soundtrack.
Her breakthrough in the United States came in March 2012 when she joined the cast of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars as a troupe dancer for its fourteenth season. In this role, she was heavily involved in choreographing and performing in the show’s elaborate opening numbers. Her choreographic talents were further recognized when she co-choreographed a performance for Usher at the Billboard Music Awards that same year with fellow dancer Sasha Farber.
After three seasons as a troupe member, Slater was promoted to a professional dancer for season 17 in 2013. She was partnered with comedian Bill Engvall, and the pair impressively reached the finals, finishing in fourth place. Over the subsequent seasons, Slater has been partnered with a diverse array of celebrities, including actor Billy Dee Williams, NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip, singer Redfoo, and Property Brothers co-host Drew Scott, with whom she also reached the finals. In season 24, Slater achieved her ultimate goal on the show, winning the Mirrorball Trophy with her celebrity partner, NFL running back Rashad Jennings.
Emma Slater Personal Life & Family
Emma Slater’s personal life has often been in the public eye, largely due to her relationships with fellow professional dancers. She was in a long-term relationship with dancer Sasha Farber, which began in 2011. The couple dated for several years before a brief split in 2014. They reconciled in 2015, and their romance blossomed, culminating in a live on-air proposal from Farber during a broadcast of Dancing with the Stars on October 4, 2016. The couple married on March 25, 2018, in a ceremony in Los Angeles attended by many of their Dancing with the Stars colleagues. However, after four years of marriage, the couple separated in April 2022. Slater officially filed for divorce in February 2023, citing irreconcilable differences. Despite their separation and divorce, they have maintained an amicable and professional relationship, continuing to work together on the show and its tours.
Following her divorce, Emma Slater is now in a relationship with another Dancing with the Stars professional, Alan Bersten. She is close to her family, particularly her twin sister, Kelly, who often works alongside her on the show. In December 2020, Slater proudly became a naturalized American citizen, holding dual citizenship with her native United Kingdom.
Awards and Achievements of Emma Slater
- Winner of the Mirrorball Trophy on Dancing with the Stars (Season 24) with partner Rashad Jennings.
- 2006 United Kingdom Under 21 Latin American Champion.
- 2005 British Under 21 Latin American Champion at the Blackpool Dance Festival.
- Ranked among the world’s top 10 in the Under 21 Latin American dance category.
Emma Slater Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Emma Slater’s net worth is estimated to be around $300,000. Her primary source of income is her role as a professional dancer and choreographer on the highly popular television series Dancing with the Stars. Her earnings from the show are supplemented by her participation in the Dancing with the Stars live tours, which travel across the country. Additionally, Slater earns income from other professional engagements, including choreography work for other artists and events, and appearances in films and music videos. Her established presence in the entertainment industry also allows for potential income from brand endorsements and other media-related projects.
Legacy and Influence
Emma Slater has established a significant legacy within the world of professional dance, particularly through her prominent role on Dancing with the Stars. Her influence stems from her exceptional technical skill, innovative choreography, and her ability to connect with a wide audience. Slater is admired for her versatility as a dancer, proficient in a wide range of styles from the most intricate Latin routines to elegant ballroom dances. Her teaching ability, demonstrated through the progress of her celebrity partners, has inspired many aspiring dancers. Her win in season 24 with Rashad Jennings showcased her capacity to mentor and lead a partner to victory. Slater’s consistently positive and engaging public image has made her a role model and a fan favorite, contributing to the enduring popularity of dance in mainstream culture.
Interesting Facts about Emma Slater
- She has an identical twin sister named Kelly, who is a stylist and has worked on the costumes for Dancing with the Stars.
- At the age of 15, she appeared in a music video for the late music icon George Michael’s song “Round Here”.
- She was a featured dancer in the 2008 blockbuster film Mamma Mia! and also sang on the official soundtrack.
- Before joining the U.S. version, she appeared on “Strictly Come Dancing: South Africa”.
- She became a U.S. citizen in December 2020.
- Her proposal from ex-husband Sasha Farber happened live on television during an episode of Dancing with the Stars.
Controversies
Emma Slater has maintained a largely positive public image throughout her career and has not been involved in any major controversies. Some online discussions among fans of Dancing with the Stars have occasionally debated her celebrity pairings on the show, with some viewers feeling she has been partnered with contestants who are less likely to win. However, this is a common topic of discussion for all the professional dancers on the show and does not constitute a personal controversy.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Approximately 831,800 followers
- Twitter – Information not publicly available
- YouTube – Information not publicly available
Final Words about Emma Slater
Emma Slater continues to be a prominent and beloved figure in the world of dance and entertainment. Her journey from a young, competitive dancer in England to a Mirrorball champion on one of America’s biggest television shows is a testament to her talent, hard work, and unwavering passion for her art. As a cornerstone of Dancing with the Stars, she continues to enchant millions with her performances and choreography. Looking to the future, Slater is expected to continue her successful career in dance, both on television and potentially in other ventures that utilize her extensive skills as a performer and creator. Her legacy is one of grace, professionalism, and the infectious joy she brings to the dance floor, inspiring countless individuals to embrace the art of dance.
