Emma Slater, a name synonymous with grace and talent, has made a significant mark in the world of dance. Born on December 25, 1988, in Tamworth, Staffordshire, England, Slater’s journey from a small town to the dazzling lights of Hollywood is nothing short of inspiring. She holds dual nationality, British and American, having become a U.S. citizen in December 2020.
Slater’s early life was steeped in the arts. She joined local stage schools and participated in numerous productions from a young age. Her twin sister, Kelly, is a costume designer and stylist on the popular show “Dancing with the Stars,” where Emma herself has become a household name. At just 10 years old, Slater began her training in ballroom and Latin dance, quickly making a name for herself in the competitive dance scene in England.
By the age of 15, Slater had already appeared in a George Michael music video and participated in a fitness video titled “Latinasize.” Her early achievements set the stage for a career that would see her win numerous dance competitions, including the British Under 21 Latin American Championships and the United Kingdom Under 21 Latin American Championships.
Slater’s personal life has also been a topic of interest for many fans. She dated fellow “Dancing with the Stars” member Sasha Farber from 2011 to 2014. The couple rekindled their romance in 2015, and Farber proposed to Slater during a live broadcast of the show in 2016. They married in March 2018, but unfortunately, the couple separated in April 2022, and Slater filed for divorce in February 2023.
Emma Slater’s career is a testament to her versatility and dedication. At 16, she joined the hit theatre show “Simply Ballroom,” which toured the UK, the United Arab Emirates, and South Africa. Her stint in South Africa saw her appear on “Dancing with the South African Stars” with TV host Dalen Lance. Slater’s theatre career continued with extended runs in London’s West End, including shows like “Dirty Dancing,” “Cheek to Cheek,” and “Latin Fever.”
In 2009, Slater joined the stage show “Burn the Floor,” initially for a China tour but later for an extended run at the Longacre Theatre on Broadway in New York City. The show also toured globally, covering Belgium, Holland, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Canada, New Zealand, and the West End in London. Slater’s talent was not confined to the stage; she also danced and advised on the UK’s ITV show “Popstar to Opera Star.”
In 2008, Slater was featured in the Universal Pictures movie “Mamma Mia!” starring Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, and Colin Firth. She also sang on the Grammy-nominated soundtrack for the movie, which was shot partly on the Greek island of Skopelos and primarily at Pinewood Studios in London.
Slater’s most notable work has been on the American edition of “Dancing with the Stars.” She joined the show in March 2012 as a troupe dancer and choreographed many of the opening dance numbers. After three seasons as a troupe member, she was promoted to a professional dancer in the show’s seventeenth season. Her first celebrity partner was comedian Bill Engvall, and despite receiving low scores, they reached the finals and finished in fourth place.
Over the years, Slater has partnered with various celebrities, including Billy Dee Williams, Michael Waltrip, Redfoo, Hayes Grier, Rick Perry, Rashad Jennings, Drew Scott, Johnny Damon, John Schneider, James Van Der Beek, Charles Oakley, Jimmie Allen, and Trevor Donovan. Her partnership with NFL running back Rashad Jennings in season 24 led to her first win on the show.
Emma Slater’s journey on “Dancing with the Stars” has been marked by highs and lows, but her talent and dedication have always shone through. From her early days in Tamworth to becoming a celebrated professional dancer and choreographer, Slater’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and undeniable talent.
