Dylan Efron Says DWTS Rehearsals Put Extra Strain on Girlfriend Courtney King

• oleh Agus Setiawan
• Okt, 15 2025

When Dylan Shane Efron, a 33‑year‑old contestant on season 33 of Dancing With the StarsLos Angeles, California, talked on Nick Viall’s podcast "The Viall Files" on October 13, 2024, he opened up about how the grueling five‑hour daily rehearsals were testing his long‑term relationship with Courtney King. The candid confession sparked a wave of interest because the couple has kept a low‑key profile despite Efron’s rising fame.

Why the Rehearsal Schedule Matters

DWTS demands eight to ten hours of practice per week for each contestant, but season 33 pushed the pace even higher. Efron explained that his partnership with professional dancer Daniella Karagach required relentless polishing of Latin and contemporary routines. "My brain’s mush and my body hurts after each five‑hour session," he said, adding that the exhaustion is real but that the emotional toll on King is "even tougher."

The pressure isn’t just physical. Efron temporarily relocated from his shared home in Manhattan Beach to a short‑term rental near the DWTS studio in Los Angeles County. That move cut down his commute but widened the gap between him and King, who works a standard 40‑hour week at a corporate job unrelated to entertainment.

How the Couple Met and Their Journey So Far

Efron and King first crossed paths in high school back in Pacific Palisades, a suburb of Los Angeles. They officially went public in October 2016 when Efron posted a photo of the pair on Instagram, a moment that was later confirmed by multiple outlets including Parade.com. Since then, the duo has weathered the typical ups and downs of a young couple, but they’ve managed to keep the spotlight off King, who prefers privacy over paparazzi.

According to a Cosmopolitan feature published on October 14, 2024, King maintains a full‑time position in a finance firm and deliberately avoids industry events. "She’s a very private person," the article noted, explaining why the couple’s social media presence is largely limited to Efron’s occasional posts.

What Efron Said on "The Viall Files"

During the podcast, host Nick Viall asked Efron how he and King were handling the DWTS grind. Efron replied, "It’s trying right now, but she’s so supportive. She knows I love her, 100 percent. It’s temporary, so nothing’s really changed. We’re still in a great place."

He went on to highlight a silver lining: increased travel opportunities. After winning the reality competition "The Traitors" on March 6, 2025—a win that earned him a cash prize and brand deals—Efron’s schedule now includes sponsored trips where he can bring King along. "The cool thing that’s changed is we started traveling together a lot more," he said, noting that shared experiences have actually strengthened their bond.

Reactions from Friends, Family, and Industry Insiders

Efron’s older brother, actor Zac Efron, was quoted in an AOL.com piece on March 7, 2025, saying, "Dylan’s always been the one to chase the next challenge, but he’s lucky to have Courtney as his anchor."

Industry insiders note that DWTS contestants often see a dip in personal relationships because of the intense schedule. A former contestant, now turned choreographer, told Bollywoodshaadis.com, "The show is designed to push you physically and emotionally. If you have a partner who can handle the downtime, it makes a huge difference."

Impact on Their Future Plans

Despite the current strain, neither Efron nor King have announced any engagement plans. Parade.com reported on October 14, 2024, that the couple is taking things one day at a time, focusing on communication rather than milestones.

Looking ahead, Efron expects to return to a more regular routine once DWTS wraps up in late November 2024. He hinted that the pair will resume their normal Manhattan Beach life, with the added perk of occasional brand‑related travel.

Why This Story Resonates With Audiences

Fans of reality TV love a behind‑the‑scenes glimpse into the personal lives of contestants. Efron’s honesty about the sacrifices required for a high‑profile competition humanizes a star often seen only on stage. Moreover, his willingness to credit King for her supportive role challenges the stereotype of the self‑absorbed celebrity partner.

In a media landscape saturated with quick drama, this nuanced conversation about love, work–life balance, and perseverance offers a refreshing narrative—one that many readers can relate to, whether they’re juggling demanding jobs or long‑distance relationships.