Introduction
When you think of Shark Tank, you probably picture high-stakes pitches, sharp negotiations, and million-dollar deals. But for Robert Herjavec, one of the show’s most beloved investors, the biggest win of his life didn’t happen in the tank—it happened on the dance floor. In 2015, Robert was paired with professional ballroom dancer Kym Johnson for Season 20 of Dancing with the Stars. Neither of them could have predicted that the cha-cha and tango would lead to a lifelong partnership far more valuable than any business deal. Today, Kym Johnson-Herjavec is not just Robert Herjavec’s wife; she is a celebrated dancer, a devoted mother, a television personality, and an inspiration to women navigating career, love, and motherhood later in life. Her journey from Sydney’s dance studios to Hollywood’s brightest stages is a testament to passion, resilience, and trusting life’s timing.
Quick Facts About Kym Johnson-Herjavec
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kym Johnson-Herjavec |
| Date of Birth | August 4, 1976 |
| Age | 49 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Sydney, Australia |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Profession | Professional Ballroom Dancer, Television Personality, Choreographer, Actress, Producer |
| Parents | Isaac Johnson and Barbara Johnson |
| Siblings | Two brothers: Scott Johnson and Christopher Johnson |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Spouse | Robert Herjavec (married July 31, 2016) |
| Children | Twins — Hudson Robert Herjavec and Haven Mae Herjavec (born April 2018) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10 million |
| @kymherjavec | |
| Twitter (X) | @kymjohnson |
| Kym Johnson-Herjavec |
Early Life and Family Roots
Born on August 4, 1976, in Sydney, Australia, Kym Johnson grew up surrounded by rhythm and movement. Her parents, Isaac and Barbara Johnson, were both professional dancers who owned a dance studio, so it was almost inevitable that Kym would find her calling early. She began dancing at just three years old, exploring ballet, jazz, and tap before discovering her true passion—ballroom dancing—at the age of thirteen.
Raised alongside her two brothers, Scott and Christopher, Kym enjoyed a childhood filled with music, competition, and the kind of close-knit family support that would later anchor her through the highs and lows of a demanding entertainment career. Her parents didn’t just teach her dance steps; they instilled in her a discipline and work ethic that would carry her from local Sydney competitions to international stages. By the time she was a teenager, Kym was already competing in national dance championships, honing the skills that would eventually make her a household name.
Her competitive drive paid off early. In 1998, she and her dance partner, Lithuanian Tomas Atkocevicius, placed second at the Australian Dancesport Championship in the Open Amateur Modern Ballroom category and became finalists at the prestigious U.K. Ballroom Championships at Blackpool. These achievements were no small feat—they placed her among the best ballroom dancers in the world and set the stage for a career that would span continents.
Building a Career in Dance and Television
After retiring from competitive ballroom dancing in 2001, Kym didn’t step away from the spotlight—she simply found new ways to shine. She joined Burn the Floor, a touring ballroom dance production that showcased the energy and artistry of Latin and ballroom dance to audiences worldwide. She also performed at high-profile events, including Elton John’s 50th birthday party, rubbing shoulders with music royalty long before she ever met her future husband.
Her big television break came in 2004 when she joined the first season of the Australian version of Dancing with the Stars as a professional dancer. Over three seasons, she became a fan favorite, and in Season 2, she and her partner, television presenter Tom Williams, took home the coveted mirrorball trophy. Her success on the Australian show opened doors to other reality TV appearances, including Australian Celebrity Survivor: Vanuatu and The Celebrity Apprentice Australia. In 2013, she returned to the Australian Dancing with the Stars—this time as a judge, offering her expert insights from the other side of the judges’ table.
But Kym’s ambitions were never confined to one country. In 2006, she made the leap to the American version of Dancing with the Stars, partnering with talk show icon Jerry Springer. Over the next decade, she danced with an eclectic mix of celebrities—from Family Matters star Jaleel White to NFL legend Warren Sapp to Baywatch heartthrob David Hasselhoff. She won the competition twice: first with musician Donny Osmond and later with NFL player Hines Ward. In a twist of fate that would later become a favorite story among Shark Tank fans, Kym even partnered with Mark Cuban—Robert Herjavec’s fellow shark and friendly rival—during Season 5.
By the time she was paired with Robert Herjavec in 2015, Kym had already established herself as one of the most accomplished and beloved professional dancers in Dancing with the Stars history.
The Dance That Changed Everything
Season 20 of Dancing with the Stars paired Kym with Robert Herjavec, a self-made millionaire and Shark Tank investor who had never danced a day in his life. Robert was going through a difficult period—his 24-year marriage was ending, and he was navigating the emotional fallout of a public divorce. What he needed was a distraction; what he found was a soulmate.
From the very first rehearsal, the chemistry between them was undeniable. They started as friends, bonding over long hours of practice and the shared vulnerability of live television. Robert, known for his intense focus in the boardroom, approached dancing with the same commitment. Kym later recalled, “When he does something, he commits to it totally. He did that with Dancing. He’s not afraid to go there and look silly if he has to!” For Robert, the connection was even deeper. He later shared that he felt “complete” when he met Kym.
They were eliminated in Week 8, finishing in sixth place, but by then, the competition had already given them something far more valuable than a trophy. They began dating shortly after the show ended, and ten months later, in March 2016, Robert proposed. On July 31, 2016, they exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and close friends, including DWTS alums Joey Fatone, Lance Bass, and Donny Osmond. Kym wore a stunning Monique Lhuillier strapless gown, and the couple danced their first dance to Etta James’ “At Last”—a song they had prepared for the show but never got to perform. Olivia Newton-John sang it live at their wedding, making the moment even more magical.
Life as Robert Herjavec’s Wife and Stepmother
Marrying a high-profile entrepreneur like Robert Herjavec came with its own set of adjustments. Suddenly, Kym was not just a dancer—she was the wife of a Shark Tank star, a stepmother to three children from Robert’s first marriage, and a public figure whose every move was watched by fans and media alike.
Robert has three adult children—Brendan (born 1993), Skye (born 1996), and Caprice (born 1998)—from his previous marriage to Diane Plese. Kym stepped into the role of stepmother with grace and warmth, embracing the blended family dynamic without ever trying to replace their biological mother. She has spoken about the importance of building her own relationships with each of Robert’s children, respecting the family’s history while creating new memories together.
In April 2018, Kym and Robert welcomed twins—a son, Hudson Robert Herjavec, and a daughter, Haven Mae Herjavec. Hudson’s middle name honors his father, while Haven’s middle name pays tribute to Kym’s beloved grandmother. Becoming a mother at 41 was a dream Kym had waited for, and she has been open about the emotional journey—including struggles with infertility—that preceded their arrival. She told PEOPLE, “We had our twins later in life. I got married later in life. And it just made me realize you really do have to trust the timing of your life.”
Today, the Herjavec household is a bustling blend of cultures and schedules. The family splits their time between Robert’s native Canada and Kym’s hometown of Sydney, Australia. Robert, known for his relentless work ethic, has proven to be an incredibly hands-on father. Kym shared with ET that Robert even takes the kids to school on the bus when they’re in Australia—something she never imagined he’d do. “I’ve never seen Robert on a bus before. He’s loving it and he’s really hands-on,” she said.
Kym’s Net Worth and Income Sources
While Robert Herjavec’s net worth is estimated at around $200 million, Kym has built an impressive financial portfolio of her own. Her estimated net worth is approximately $10 million, accumulated through decades of work as a professional dancer, television personality, choreographer, and actress.
Her income streams include her long-running tenure on Dancing with the Stars, appearance fees from reality shows like Celebrity Apprentice Australia and Celebrity Survivor, and her work as a judge on the Australian version of DWTS. She has also ventured into acting and producing, with credits including the Lifetime movie Hunting Housewives and the upcoming Christmas in the Ballroom. Additionally, she has leveraged her public profile for brand endorsements, sponsored social media content, and appearances at corporate and charity events.
It’s worth noting that Kym’s financial success is entirely her own—she built a thriving career long before she ever met Robert, and she continues to pursue new projects that reflect her passions and talents.
Social Media Presence and Public Engagement
Kym is active on social media, where she offers fans a genuine glimpse into her life as a mother, wife, and former dancer. Her Instagram account (@kymherjavec) is a curated mix of family moments, behind-the-scenes snippets, fitness inspiration, and heartfelt tributes to her husband and children. She also maintains a presence on Twitter (X) under @kymjohnson.
Unlike many celebrities who maintain a carefully polished online persona, Kym’s social media feels refreshingly authentic. She shares unfiltered photos of her twins, candid shots of Robert being a goofy dad, and throwback videos from her DWTS days that remind fans of her incredible dance legacy. She also uses her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, including infertility awareness and women’s health.
Her engagement with fans is warm and approachable—she regularly responds to comments, shares fan art, and posts interactive content like Q&A sessions. This genuine connection has helped her cultivate a loyal following that extends far beyond the Dancing with the Stars fandom.
Recent Projects and Future Goals
Kym hasn’t slowed down since becoming a mother. In 2024, she starred in the Lifetime movie Hunting Housewives, a mystery thriller about four housewives stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. The project allowed her to flex her acting muscles and collaborate with Denise Richards, another former DWTS contestant.
She is also set to appear in Christmas in the Ballroom, a television movie that combines her love of dance with her growing acting career. Beyond acting, Kym continues to choreograph and perform, including her work with Carols in the Domain, a beloved Australian Christmas concert series.
Looking ahead, Kym has expressed interest in producing more content that highlights dance, family, and the importance of following one’s passion later in life. She has also hinted at potential projects with Robert, though both are careful to maintain a healthy work-life balance as they raise their young twins.
Personal Life, Beliefs, and Daily Routines
Despite the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Kym’s daily life is grounded in routine and family values. She and Robert prioritize quality time with Hudson and Haven, whether that means taking them to school, cooking together, or simply enjoying quiet weekends at home. Kym has credited her parents for instilling in her the importance of family, and she strives to pass those same values on to her children.
She is also a firm believer in health and wellness. As a former professional dancer, Kym maintains a disciplined fitness regimen that includes Pilates, barre, and light cardio. She’s spoken about the importance of mental health, especially for women navigating the pressures of career and motherhood. Her philosophy is simple: “You have to trust the timing of your life.” It’s a mantra that has guided her through infertility struggles, career transitions, and the whirlwind of falling in love in the public eye.
Read this to: Why Mourielle Hurtado Herrera Walked Away from Stardom to Find True Peace
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Robert Herjavec’s wife?
Robert Herjavec’s wife is Kym Johnson-Herjavec, an Australian professional ballroom dancer and television personality best known for her appearances on Dancing with the Stars.
2. How did Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson meet?
They met in 2015 when they were paired as dance partners on Season 20 of Dancing with the Stars. They began dating shortly after the show ended and married in July 2016.
3. Does Kym Johnson-Herjavec have children?
Yes, she and Robert have twins—a son named Hudson Robert Herjavec and a daughter named Haven Mae Herjavec, born in April 2018. Robert also has three older children from his previous marriage.
4. What is Kym Johnson-Herjavec’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is approximately $10 million, accumulated through her dance career, television appearances, acting roles, and brand endorsements.
5. What is Kym Johnson-Herjavec doing now?
She continues to act, produce, and choreograph. Recent projects include the Lifetime movie Hunting Housewives and the upcoming Christmas in the Ballroom. She also remains active on social media and involved in charity work.
6. Where do Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson-Herjavec live?
They split their time between Canada (Robert’s home country) and Australia (Kym’s hometown), balancing their careers and family life across two continents.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Passion, Resilience, and Love
Kym Johnson-Herjavec’s story is not just about being Robert Herjavec’s wife—it’s about a woman who carved her own path long before she ever stepped into the spotlight beside a Shark Tank star. From a young girl dancing in her parents’ Sydney studio to a two-time Dancing with the Stars champion, a devoted mother, and a thriving actress and producer, Kym has proven that success is not defined by who you marry, but by the passion and perseverance you bring to every stage of life.
Her journey reminds us that love often arrives when we least expect it—and that trusting the timing of our lives can lead to the most beautiful surprises. As Kym continues to inspire audiences with her grace, resilience, and authenticity, her legacy stands as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, find your partner, and build a life filled with purpose and joy.