Jenna Dewan, the acclaimed actress and dancer, commemorated the 20th anniversary of her breakout film Step Up with an expansive Instagram tribute, conspicuously omitting any mention of her ex-husband Channing Tatum, with whom she co-starred and whose romance blossomed on the set of the 2006 dance drama. The post, shared on Monday, August 31, 2026, highlighted the movie’s profound impact on her life and career, sparking widespread discussion among fans and media outlets about the deliberate exclusion in what was otherwise a deeply nostalgic reflection.
The highly anticipated milestone arrived as persistent rumors suggest Dewan is poised to join the cast of the 35th season of Dancing With the Stars, an opportunity that would mark a significant return to her dance roots. Her social media gallery featured a collection of rarely seen behind-the-scenes photographs from the film’s production, capturing candid moments with fellow cast members and crew, but notably devoid of images or direct references to Tatum, who played her on-screen love interest, Tyler Gage.
The Enduring Legacy of a Dance Phenomenon
Step Up premiered in 2006, quickly establishing itself as a cultural touchstone within the dance film genre. Directed by Anne Fletcher, the movie brought together the worlds of classical ballet and street hip-hop through its compelling narrative and dynamic choreography. Dewan starred as Nora Clark, a talented ballet student at the Maryland School of the Arts whose meticulously planned end-of-year showcase is jeopardized when her partner is injured. Her path crosses with Tyler Gage, a troubled street dancer played by Tatum, who is sentenced to community service at the school after a vandalism incident. Their initial friction gives way to a transformative partnership, blending their disparate styles into a groundbreaking performance.
The film, despite receiving mixed critical reviews, resonated strongly with audiences worldwide. Produced on a modest budget of $12 million, Step Up became a surprising box office hit, grossing over $110 million globally. Its commercial success not only solidified Dewan’s place in Hollywood but also spawned a multi-film franchise, including Step Up 2: The Streets, Step Up 3D, Step Up Revolution, and Step Up: All In, along with a television series adaptation. The original film’s blend of passionate romance and electrifying dance sequences cemented its status as a beloved classic for a generation of moviegoers.
Jenna Dewan’s Rise to Stardom
Before Step Up, Jenna Dewan had already cultivated a notable career as a professional dancer. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, she began dancing at a young age, mastering various styles including jazz, ballet, and hip-hop. Her exceptional talent led her to become a highly sought-after backup dancer for some of the music industry’s biggest names. She toured with artists like Janet Jackson, Ricky Martin, and Christina Aguilera, gaining invaluable experience on grand stages and in high-profile music videos. This extensive background provided her with the authentic dance prowess that was crucial for her portrayal of Nora Clark, a character whose journey mirrored Dewan’s own dedication to the art form.
Step Up marked a pivotal transition for Dewan from professional dancer to leading actress. The film not only showcased her formidable dance skills but also demonstrated her burgeoning acting capabilities, laying the groundwork for a diverse career that has since spanned film and television. Her performance in Step Up earned her critical attention and a dedicated fanbase, propelling her into the spotlight beyond the dance world.
The Romance Born on Set: A Public History
The on-screen chemistry between Dewan and Tatum in Step Up famously translated into a real-life romance. The couple began dating shortly after the film’s release in 2006, captivating fans who had rooted for their characters’ love story. Their relationship quickly became one of Hollywood’s most talked-about pairings, culminating in their marriage in July 2009. They welcomed their daughter, Everly, in May 2013, further solidifying their image as a golden couple in the entertainment industry.
For years, Dewan and Tatum openly celebrated Step Up‘s significance in their lives. They frequently shared anecdotes about meeting on set and the profound impact the film had on their personal and professional journeys. Notably, for the film’s 10th anniversary in 2016, the then-married couple delighted fans by recreating one of their iconic dance scenes, a gesture that underscored their shared history and mutual affection for the movie that brought them together. Their public displays of affection and shared nostalgia for Step Up became an integral part of their celebrity narrative.
Navigating Public Divorces and New Beginnings
However, their highly publicized marriage came to an end in April 2018 when they announced their separation, finalizing their divorce in 2019. The dissolution of their relationship sent shockwaves through their fanbase, many of whom had viewed them as an enduring symbol of Hollywood romance. Both Dewan and Tatum have since moved on with their personal lives. Tatum is currently in a relationship with actress Zoë Kravitz, while Dewan found love with actor Steve Kazee, to whom she is now engaged. They share two children, son Callum Michael Rebel, born in March 2020, and daughter Rhiannon, born in June 2023.
Dewan’s decision to exclude Tatum from her 20th-anniversary tribute to Step Up marks a distinct shift in her public acknowledgment of their shared past. While previous milestones saw them celebrating together, this latest post underscores her current focus on her individual journey and accomplishments, separate from her former spouse. This deliberate omission suggests a conscious effort to redefine her narrative around the film, emphasizing its personal and professional impact on her life, independent of the romantic relationship it fostered. In the landscape of celebrity divorces, such gestures are often interpreted as a clear demarcation of new chapters and individual identities.
A Career Defined by Dance and Drama
Since Step Up, Dewan has continued to build a robust career in both acting and dance. She has appeared in numerous films and television series, including Witches of East End, World of Dance (as a host), and The Resident. Her current role as Bailey Nune on the ABC drama The Rookie has further showcased her versatility as an actress, allowing her to explore different genres and character types. Throughout her career, Dewan has consistently leveraged her dance background, often incorporating it into her roles or participating in dance-related projects, reinforcing her identity as a multi-talented performer.
Her ongoing connection to dance is a thread that runs through her professional life. Fans and industry observers alike have long admired her commitment to the art form, whether through choreographed sequences in her acting roles or her participation in dance competitions. The prospect of her joining Dancing With the Stars would bring her full circle, returning her to the competitive dance stage where her exceptional skills could once again shine brightly for a national audience.
Speculation Mounts for ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Appearance
The timing of Dewan’s Step Up anniversary post has also coincided with heightened anticipation surrounding her potential involvement in Dancing With the Stars. Reports from multiple entertainment outlets indicate that Dewan is among the prominent names expected to be announced as part of the cast for the show’s 35th season. The full lineup is officially slated for release on September 2, just days after her nostalgic Step Up tribute.
Dewan herself has previously expressed enthusiasm for the possibility of returning to competitive dance. Earlier this year, when asked about joining the popular reality competition, she remarked that she "never says never," elaborating on her deep love for dancing and how much she misses it. She also acknowledged that an opportunity like Dancing With the Stars would be "a hard opportunity to turn down" given her passion for the art. Her professional dance background and widespread recognition make her a highly anticipated contender, potentially bringing a unique level of expertise and star power to the show.
The omission of Channing Tatum from Jenna Dewan’s poignant reflection on Step Up‘s 20th anniversary underscores a deliberate choice to honor the film’s foundational role in her career and life, independent of the romantic partnership it once symbolized. As she potentially embarks on a new chapter with Dancing With the Stars, Dewan continues to define her legacy as an artist, celebrating the movie that launched her into global prominence while firmly establishing her own path forward. Her career, deeply rooted in the rhythmic artistry of dance, stands as a testament to her enduring talent and evolving journey in Hollywood.
