Amanda Kloots Reveals the Dark Side of Dancing With the Stars: Partner Alan Bersten Was "Very Mean"

The Reality of Competition For many participants, Dancing With the Stars is not just a competition but a journey of personal growth. Amanda Kloots entered the show with aspirations of winning but quickly found herself grappling with the demands of her partner's high expectations. "He was very mean to me," Kloots stated candidly, indicating the psychological toll that such a competitive environment can take. Her acknowledgment of Bersten's behavior draws attention to the often-hidden pressures of reality television, where the desire to win can lead to harsh coaching methods. Cultural Context of Dance In her podcast interview, Kloots speculated that Bersten's upbringing may have influenced his coaching style. "Growing up Russian, growing up in that dance atmosphere," she explained, suggesting that the rigorous and sometimes harsh training typical of Russian dance culture could explain his approach. While many dancers thrive under tough love, this method does not resonate with everyone, especially when personal feelings are involved. Kloots' experience highlights the importance of understanding individual backgrounds and how they impact interpersonal dynamics in high-stakes environments. Bottled Emotions One of the most poignant aspects of Kloots' experience was her struggle to express her feelings during rehearsals. "I would just keep it bottled up," she admitted, revealing a common challenge faced by many contestants who fear that voicing their emotions might hinder their performance. This internal conflict can lead to psychological strain, as dancers find themselves caught between the desire to succeed and the need for emotional well-being. Kloots' honesty serves as a reminder that behind every dazzling performance, there can be a story of personal struggle and resilience.