Most people associate Tony Dovolani with the hit ABC TV
show Dancing with the Stars where he has been paired with celebrity
dance partners Stacey Keibler, Sara Evans, Leeza Gibbons, Jane Seymour and now Marissa Jaret Winokur. Born in
Prishtina Kosova, Tony began folk dancing at age three. When he was 15 his
entire family moved to the United States and Tony got the opportunity to
attend a Fred Astaire Dance Academy. From that moment on, he knew he had
found his passion.
Since that time Tony has been a strong and successful competitor
in ballroom dancing and is the current undefeated United States Professional
Rhythm Champion and the current undefeated World Professional Rhythm Champion with partner Elena Grinenko.
In addition to his competitive dancing success Tony’s professional
body of work also includes a role as the Latin bad boy competitor in the
hit film, Shall We Dance, and has had the privilege to coach and work aside
Richard Gere, Jennifer Lopez and Stanley Tucci.
Currently Tony is continuing his professional competitive
career, judging competitions and performing shows throughout the world. He
is also a current competitor on this season’s Dancing with the
Stars.
“All success aside I would not be where I am
without the support and love of my wife, baby and family. They are the
reason I push myself everyday and drive myself to be the best in the
art and profession that I know as my passion. Dancing is life yet my
family is my soul. I would just like to thank my family, friends, fans
and colleagues for all their support since they have been so instrumental
in this far and long road that I have been on and want them to ride with
me on the future road ahead.” -Tony
