Dancer Ivan Denisov Shares Why He Fled Russia and Moved to Israel

Ivan Denisov, a dancer currently starring alongside Avishag Samberg on Israel's popular show "Dancing with the Stars," revealed the harsh experiences that led him to leave Russia and immigrate to Israel. Ahead of his upcoming competition in the show's mentor battle round with his real-life partner, dancer Nicole Rogovin, Denisov recounted the violence he faced in Russia. In 2022, after the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, he participated in protests where he was arrested and beaten with batons, subjected to multiple interrogations, and ultimately fled the country.

Upon arriving in Israel, Denisov felt he had entered a different kind of conflict but experienced a sense of pride and belonging. He expressed gratitude toward Israel for providing him a new home and described the country as "the most amazing and beautiful in the world." Denisov will compete in the mentor battle alongside Rogovin, who previously danced with Guy Hochman, recently eliminated from the competition. The episode featuring their joint performance is scheduled to air tonight after the news on Channel 12.