Len Goodman’s Legacy Lives On: Jenna and Val’s Emotional Tribute with Their Son Rome

In a heartwarming celebration of family, achievement, and legacy, Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) pros Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy proudly shared a special family moment on Instagram, showcasing not only their undeniable bond but also their success on the dance floor. The post, shared on November 30, 2024, captivated followers as the couple lined up their five Mirrorball Trophies for a family photo with their 22-month-old son, Rome.

This moment marked a joyous celebration of both their personal and professional milestones, as well as a tribute to the late DWTS judge Len Goodman, whose influence and legacy loom large in the ballroom world. The Instagram carousel, filled with intimate snapshots, quickly gained attention for its emotional depth and playful tone.

The Mirrorball Moment: A Family Affair

The photo that captured the hearts of fans showed Rome, their toddler son, sitting between his parents and their prized Mirrorball Trophies. In one image, little Rome couldn’t contain his excitement as he smiled widely, while in another, he was captured gasping in wonder at the dazzling trophies. It was an adorable and pure representation of the joy a family shares when achieving great things together.

“Rome’s raw emotions seeing another Len Goodman Mirrorball come home!” Johnson, 30, captioned the photos, reflecting on the significance of this trophy for her and her family. In her post, she also took a moment to acknowledge Goodman’s lasting impact, stating that the collection of two Mirrorball Trophies in their home, alongside an Emmy nomination in his honor, was a reminder of the late judge’s influence on the dance world and their own lives.

Goodman, who passed away in 2023, was a beloved figure on Dancing With the Stars for many years, and his legacy continues to resonate deeply with both fans and dancers alike. For Johnson and Chmerkovskiy, his memory was particularly meaningful as they celebrated their achievements this season.

A Legacy of Success: Jenna and Val’s Journey

Both Johnson and Chmerkovskiy have made their marks in the world of competitive dance, earning numerous accolades over the years. Their combined achievements on Dancing With the Stars are nothing short of impressive, with multiple Mirrorball Trophies to their names. Johnson’s history with the show includes victorious seasons 26 and 33, partnering with Adam Rippon and Joey Graziadei, respectively. Chmerkovskiy, on the other hand, is a five-time winner, claiming the coveted Mirrorball Trophy in seasons 20, 23, and 32 with partners Rumer Willis, Laurie Hernandez, and Xochitl Gomez.

It’s worth noting that Johnson and Chmerkovskiy’s paths intersected in more than just the professional dance world. In 2019, they tied the knot, making their shared accomplishments even more meaningful. As a couple, they continue to support and uplift one another, and their love for their craft and each other is evident in every public appearance and social media post.

The latest addition to their collection—a Mirrorball Trophy won by Johnson in season 33 with Graziadei—served as another highlight in their journey. After Chmerkovskiy had passed on the trophy to Johnson from the previous season, it seemed like a passing of the baton, symbolizing both the shared legacy between the couple and their individual growth in the dance world.

Rome’s Role in the Celebration

While the Mirrorball Trophies are the centerpiece of the photo, it’s Rome who steals the show with his playful curiosity and infectious smile. His reactions to the trophies, ranging from awe to excitement, perfectly encapsulate the wonder and joy that comes with new experiences. As a child of two talented dancers, Rome is sure to grow up surrounded by the artistry and discipline that come with a career in dance. The photos offer a glimpse into the world that he’s inheriting—a world of rhythm, performance, and above all, love.

For Johnson, Rome’s presence in these moments is especially poignant. “I’m beyond grateful for him,” she wrote, referring to her husband, Val, who has been a constant support throughout her journey. In an interview, Johnson shared her appreciation for Chmerkovskiy’s unwavering encouragement. He has been her “No. 1 supporter” through her rigorous preparations for the show, and she expressed how much his support means to her, particularly when balancing her career with motherhood.

A Reflection on the DWTS Community

The post also served as a heartfelt tribute to the DWTS family, with Johnson’s reflection on the impact of the show’s late judge, Len Goodman. DWTS has always been more than just a dance competition—it’s a tight-knit community where dancers, judges, and fans form lasting bonds. The personal and professional milestones celebrated in this photo exemplify the interconnectedness of this world.

It’s not just the professional dancers and choreographers who contribute to the show’s magic—it’s the entire team behind the scenes, the judges, and the fans who make it a living, breathing entity. Johnson’s words echo the deep appreciation she feels for all who have supported her and Val throughout their careers, especially in the wake of Goodman’s passing.

“I don’t believe anything happens by coincidence,” Johnson wrote, adding a thoughtful acknowledgment of how her family’s success aligns with Goodman’s legacy. She described how the two Mirrorball Trophies, along with the Emmy nomination, felt like a tribute to Goodman’s profound influence on the show, further solidifying his place in the hearts of both cast members and viewers.

Graziadei and Chmerkovskiy: More Than Just Partners

The post also highlighted the supportive relationship between Johnson and her DWTS partner from season 33, Joey Graziadei. Graziadei, who took to the comment section of Johnson’s post to express his admiration for little Rome, clearly shares a special bond with both Johnson and her family. He playfully gushed, “Breaking the internet with the cutest kid EVER,” proving the camaraderie that exists among DWTS cast members.

Chmerkovskiy’s brother, Maks, also joined in on the fun, adding to the growing love for Rome, calling him “the cutest” in the comments. The Chmerkovskiy brothers, who both have extensive experience on DWTS, have undoubtedly seen the power of dance bring people together in meaningful ways.

The Role of the Mirrorball Trophy

The Mirrorball Trophy is the ultimate symbol of success on Dancing With the Stars, representing years of hard work, dedication, and passion for the art of dance. For Johnson and Chmerkovskiy, it’s not just a physical trophy—it’s a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft and their shared journey through the world of competitive dance. Each trophy tells a unique story of partnership, perseverance, and personal growth.

For the couple, these trophies are not only markers of individual success but also representations of their shared achievements, each one serving as a reminder of their journey together. And now, with Rome in the picture, the trophies take on even greater significance, symbolizing not just their professional accomplishments but also the legacy they are building as a family.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Dancing

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s clear that the future holds even more exciting moments for this talented couple. With their incredible achievements and the love they share, there’s no telling how much more they will continue to accomplish in both their careers and personal lives.

For now, however, Johnson, Chmerkovskiy, and little Rome are taking a moment to bask in the glow of their success. And as the family grows and evolves, there’s little doubt that the Mirrorball Trophy will continue to be a cherished symbol of their shared journey—a journey filled with passion, love, and the joy of dance.

In the years to come, we’ll likely see more unforgettable moments from this family, as they continue to inspire and entertain fans around the world with their talent, dedication, and unwavering love for one another.