The world of reality television is filled with its fair share of dramatic moments, unexpected twists, and, of course, showmances. Yet, every so often, a connection on-screen transcends scripted drama and strikes a chord with audiences. In 2024, one such showmance that captured the hearts of viewers involved Dancing with the Stars contestants Jenn Tran and Sasha Farber. Whether they’re romantically involved or not, this duo made us believe in the magic of showmances, leaving us captivated with their undeniable chemistry and playful interactions.
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Jenn Tran, known for her appearance on season 21 of The Bachelorette, entered DWTS with a broken heart and a renewed sense of purpose. After a dramatic split from her ex-fiancé Devin Strader during the airing of the Bachelorette finale, Tran found herself seeking healing through dance. Enter Sasha Farber, a seasoned professional dancer who was paired with Tran for the 33rd season of DWTS. From their first steps together, there was something magnetic about their connection, and their journey quickly became one of the most talked-about relationships of the season.
A Healing Journey Through Dance
Tran’s heartache from her broken engagement was still fresh as she took on the challenge of Dancing with the Stars. But she wasn’t just there for the competition—she was seeking healing, and Farber became a source of support in her journey. In interviews, Tran openly credited Farber with helping her “ground” herself after the emotional rollercoaster that had been her engagement and its sudden end. As they worked together week after week, it became clear that their bond wasn’t just about dancing; it was about trust, friendship, and something more. Tran’s words spoke volumes about their connection: “Every week we just grow stronger and stronger and closer and closer,” she said, reflecting on their developing partnership.
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Fans watching from home quickly picked up on the palpable chemistry between Tran and Farber. Whether they were twirling across the stage or sharing a moment off-camera, the connection between them was undeniable. Even after their elimination from the competition in week six, the buzz around their relationship only intensified. Their bond seemed to evolve from dance partners to something much more intimate, sparking rumors and intrigue among fans.
Outfits, Pet Names, and Public Displays of Affection
One of the first signs that something might be brewing beyond just dance was the way Tran and Farber began to coordinate their outfits. Whether they were attending public events or simply enjoying a casual day out, their style choices became a subtle hint of their closeness. In November, the two were seen at the Los Angeles farmers market dressed in chic, coordinated outfits—Tran in an orange, brown, and cream blazer paired with gold jewelry, and Farber in a brown turtleneck sweater. It wasn’t just the color scheme that made them look so in sync, but the effortless way in which they complemented each other’s style.
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As the weeks went on, it became clear that their connection wasn’t limited to just fashion. Pet names started creeping into their interactions, sparking further speculation. In a TikTok video shared in September, Farber referred to Tran as “babe,” while the two playfully argued over ice cream. It was an innocent moment, but to fans, it spoke volumes. Was this simply the closeness of two friends, or was there something more? The pet names didn’t stop there—on November 24, Tran posted another TikTok on her birthday where she referred to Farber as “honey,” as she cozied up to him on his couch. “Honey, can you teach me a dance for my birthday?” she asked. Farber responded, “No,” in a playful, teasing tone, further adding to the intrigue.
But it wasn’t just the pet names that got people talking—it was the subtle but significant moments of affection between the two. Their interactions, whether on social media or in public, carried an undeniable warmth that left fans wondering if a romance was blossoming behind the scenes.
Gene Simmons’ Steamy Comment and the Chemistry on Stage
Of course, a showmance wouldn’t be complete without a few sizzling moments on-screen. When KISS frontman Gene Simmons made a guest appearance on the DWTS hair metal episode in October, he was quick to point out the chemistry between Tran and Farber. Despite giving them a lower score for their performance to Europe’s “The Final Countdown,” Simmons had nothing but praise for the couple’s energy. “Well, there’s no question you two make a steamy couple,” he remarked. For Farber, receiving compliments from Simmons—an icon in the world of rock ‘n’ roll—was a badge of honor. “I’ll take anything he says,” Farber responded, agreeing with Tran that the praise was a moment to cherish.
Though their routine may not have received the highest score, it was clear that their performance was one of the night’s most memorable. The judges and audience alike couldn’t help but be drawn to the electric connection between Tran and Farber. And for Tran, it was a moment of triumph—a validation of her journey from heartbreak to healing.
Private Rehearsals and Continued Chemistry After DWTS
Following their elimination from DWTS, Tran and Farber’s bond didn’t fade. In fact, it only seemed to grow stronger. Tran teased fans in October with a TikTok video showing her knocking on Farber’s door, captioning it, “Private rehearsals starting ASAP.” The clip, which showed them embracing after Farber opened the door, set social media alight. Fans were left speculating about what was really happening between the two off-screen.
DWTS judge Derek Hough commented on the video with a supportive message, writing, “I give this a 100. Happy for you two.” Meanwhile, DWTS star Ezra Sosa simply commented, “I ship it,” further fueling the ongoing romance rumors. Even Kaitlyn Bristowe, a former DWTS champion, got in on the fun, sharing in a podcast interview that Farber had told her there were indeed “flirty vibes” between him and Tran. “He was really hyping her up,” Bristowe added, suggesting that the two were more than just dance partners.
The support from friends and family was also evident. Jenn’s brother, James Tran, jokingly commented on a TikTok video, asking, “When’s the wedding rehearsal?” And in a particularly heartwarming moment, Farber and Tran spent Thanksgiving together with DWTS cohost Alfonso Ribeiro and his wife, Angela. Angela posted a photo on Instagram with the caption, “Cutest Couple: Sasha and Jenn,” which only deepened fans’ belief in the showmance.
Are Jenn Tran and Sasha Farber a Real Couple?
As of now, it’s unclear whether Jenn Tran and Sasha Farber have officially taken their relationship beyond the dance floor. What is certain, however, is that their chemistry—both on-screen and off-screen—has captivated the public’s imagination. Their playful pet names, coordinated outfits, private moments, and the support they’ve received from friends, family, and DWTS alumni all point to a deep, meaningful connection. Whether their relationship evolves into something more or remains a close friendship, one thing is for sure: Jenn and Sasha have made 2024 a year to remember for showmances.
Whether or not this duo is ready to call themselves a couple, they’ve certainly succeeded in making us believe in the magic of a showmance—a connection that transcends the competitive spirit of DWTS and finds its roots in something far more personal.