Vladyslav Mykolaiovych Yama (Ukrainian: Владислав Миколайович Яма; born July 10, 1982) is a Ukrainian dancer, choreographer, and television personality. He is widely recognized for his prominent role as a judge on the Ukrainian version of the popular international dance competition series, Dancing with the Stars (Танці з зірками).
Early Life and Education Vladyslav Yama was born on July 10, 1982, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union (now Ukraine). He began his dance training at a young age, developing a strong foundation in various dance styles, particularly ballroom and Latin American dance.
Career Yama's career in dance began as a professional dancer, where he gained experience competing and performing. His breakthrough into mainstream popularity came with his involvement in the Ukrainian television show Dancing with the Stars (Танці з зірками). Initially, he participated as a professional dancer, captivating audiences with his skill and distinctive style.
His widespread recognition significantly increased when he transitioned from a professional dancer to a member of the judging panel on the same show. As a judge, Yama became known for his strict yet fair assessments, his deep understanding of dance technique, and his often memorable critiques. His distinctive bald head and sharp commentary made him a prominent and recognizable figure in Ukrainian entertainment.
Beyond Dancing with the Stars, Yama has been involved in various other television projects and dance-related initiatives, further solidifying his status as a key figure in Ukrainian show business and dance culture. He has also been a judge on other talent shows, contributing to the development of new dance talent in the country.