(Updated: March 9, 2026)
Why did emma and sasha divorce? Emma Slater and Sasha Farber, two beloved professional dancers from Dancing with the Stars (DWTS), captured fans’ hearts when they met, fell in love on the show, got engaged on the dance floor, and tied the knot in 2018. Their story seemed like a fairytale—until it wasn’t. The couple announced their separation in 2022, with Emma officially filing for divorce in February 2023. The divorce was finalized in May 2024.
What led to the end of this high-profile marriage? While celebrity splits often spark endless speculation, Emma herself opened up about the core issue in a candid podcast appearance. Let’s break it down step by step.
Table of Contents
How Emma and Sasha’s Love Story Began
Emma Slater and Sasha Farber first crossed paths as pros on Dancing with the Stars. Their chemistry was undeniable, leading to a romantic relationship that blossomed publicly. They got engaged during a live episode in 2017 and married in a beautiful ceremony in March 2018.
- Met as DWTS professionals
- Engaged on the show in 2017
- Married in 2018 after a whirlwind romance
- Worked together on tours and the series for years
Their partnership extended beyond marriage—they remained close colleagues even after the split, with no reported bad blood. Fans admired how they handled the situation maturely, continuing to support each other professionally.
The Official Reason Cited in Divorce Papers
When Emma filed for divorce in Los Angeles court in February 2023, the paperwork listed the classic legal phrase: irreconcilable differences. The date of separation was noted as April 1, 2022.
The filing emphasized an amicable resolution, with plans to divide assets fairly. Notably, Emma requested (and was granted) a termination of spousal support for both parties—no alimony claims from either side. This points to a relatively straightforward and respectful process, avoiding prolonged public drama.
The Real Reason: Differing Timelines on Starting a Family
In August 2023, Emma appeared on The Viall Files podcast and shared the heartfelt truth behind their breakup. The main issue wasn’t cheating, fights, or fading love—it was about kids and life timing.
Emma explained that while she does want children someday, she wasn’t ready at that point in her life and career. Sasha, however, felt ready to start a family sooner. She didn’t want to hold him back or delay his dreams.
Key quotes from Emma:
- “It’s really the kid thing.”
- “I do want to have kids, I just don’t want to delay Sasha’s path in having kids because I know that he is ready for that.”
- “It had nothing to do with him. He’s always been very much himself. It’s me that’s found it difficult to understand why I’m feeling different.”
She emphasized that the love hadn’t disappeared—the toughest part was parting ways while still caring deeply for each other. They were simply in different places in life.
This mismatch in family planning is a common reason many couples separate, even when the relationship is otherwise strong. Career demands in the entertainment world, like intense DWTS schedules and tours, can add extra pressure to these decisions.
Divorce Timeline and Settlement Details
Here’s a quick overview of the key dates and facts in a clear table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Marriage Date | March 2018 |
| Separation Date | April 2022 |
| Divorce Filing | February 2023 (by Emma Slater) |
| Cited Reason | Irreconcilable differences |
| Finalization Date | May 16, 2024 |
| Spousal Support | Waived by both parties |
| Primary Underlying Issue | Differing readiness for children |
| Post-Divorce Relationship | Remain friends and professional colleagues |
The amicable nature stands out—no messy court battles or public accusations. They continued appearing together on DWTS-related events, showing maturity.
Conclusion: A Respectful End to a Beautiful Chapter
Emma Slater and Sasha Farber’s divorce reminds us that even loving relationships can end when partners’ visions for the future don’t align—especially around big life choices like having kids. It wasn’t about blame or betrayal; it was about honesty and not wanting to compromise each other’s happiness.
Both have moved forward gracefully. Emma has been linked to fellow DWTS pro Alan Bersten in recent years, while Sasha has focused on his career and personal growth. They still speak positively about their time together, proving that some connections evolve into lasting friendships rather than staying romantic.
If you’re a DWTS fan, their story shows that life doesn’t always follow the perfect choreography—but it can still end on a high note. What do you think about their split? Share your thoughts in the comments below!