Ukrainian choreographer and Dancing with the Stars winner Maks Leonov has been serving in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for a long time, having joined the army in December 2025. He revealed his decision only recently in an interview with the project 'Naodyntsi z Glamurom', explaining the reasons why he deliberately kept this fact hidden from the public.

Service in the Air Assault Forces

The famous dancer is serving in the 46th Separate Airmobile Brigade, which is part of the Air Assault Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to Leonov himself, the decision to mobilize was spontaneous, but he perceives it as his personal responsibility as a citizen. At the same time, the choreographer consciously decided not to publicize his service from the very beginning, as he did not want to make public hype out of it.

The artist does not disclose the exact location of his unit, noting only that it is outside of Kyiv. Nevertheless, the command of the unit periodically grants him the opportunity to come to the capital to participate in public events and highlight the activities of the brigade.

Using Public Prominence to Help the Frontline

Now, the recognition gained through years of television career helps Leonov in volunteer activities and supporting his brigade. The command accommodates the artist, releasing him to Kyiv to participate in information campaigns and organize fundraising for the needs of servicemen.

The dancer emphasizes that his media resource has become an effective tool for drawing public attention to the needs of the frontline. In his opinion, every citizen should find a way to contribute to the common defense of the country, regardless of their past peaceful profession.

Creative Path and Television Success

Maks Leonov gained wide popularity and victory in the Ukrainian media space in 2020, when he became the winner of the fourth season of the updated Dancing with the Stars show. On the dance floor, he performed paired with singer Santa Dimopoulos, and their bright duo won the main cup of the project based on the final voting and jury scores.

The finale of that season was remembered by viewers not only for the tense struggle with other finalists, such as Yulia Sanina and Nadezhda Meyher, but also for Santa Dimopoulos' noble act. After the announcement of the results, the singer handed over the main trophy to her rival Yulia Sanina, noting her persistence, although Dimopoulos and Leonov remained the official winners of the project.

Significance of the Artist's Decision

Maks Leonov's revelation about his army service demonstrates changing priorities among representatives of Ukrainian show business amid ongoing hostilities. The transition from public creative life to army routine shows a personal example of civic stance. Using his authority and recognition to help the 46th Separate Airmobile Brigade proves that cultural figures can effectively support the country's defense capabilities not only with words, but with real deeds.