Sharna Burgess is set to make a highly anticipated return to the popular dance competition series “Dancing with the Stars” for its upcoming season 35, having taken a five-year break from the show. Burgess last graced the ballroom during season 30, where she competed alongside her then-boyfriend, Brian Austin Green.
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Initially joining “Dancing with the Stars” in 2011 as a member of the troupe, Burgess progressed to professional dancer in season 16 after two years. Over her tenure, she competed in 14 seasons of the show, notably securing a coveted Mirrorball Trophy in season 27.
The announcement of her return was made on August 24 during an appearance on “Good Morning America.” There, Burgess expressed her excitement, stating, “I can’t wait to be back in the ballroom with my dancing family, and mostly, it feels so good to be coming home.” Enthusiasm around her return has already begun to build ahead of the show’s premiere on September 15.
Burgess, originally from Australia, became a fan-favourite after impressing viewers with her performances. She partnered with various celebrities, including the likes of Nick Carter and Jesse Metcalfe. In 2018, she took home her first Mirrorball Trophy while paired with radio personality Bobby Bones, a victory that subsequently sparked controversy and speculation regarding her future on the show.
Despite her success, Burgess did not return for season 28. Fellow pro Artem Chigvintsev, who also exited the show at that time, voiced his confusion about why they were left out, hinting at the backlash received after Burgess’s win with Bones. Burgess subsequently returned for seasons 29 and 30, during which she partnered with Green. Their relationship became a central focus of their choreography, leading to some struggles during the competition.
During the filming of season 30, Burgess shared her concerns about the focus on their personal relationship overshadowing their performances. She revealed on her podcast, “Old-Ish,” that she reached out to producers during the season to express her discomfort, implying that this may have contributed to the couple’s early elimination. Following the show, Burgess and Green welcomed their son, Zane Walker Green, in June 2022 and became engaged the following year.
Reflecting on her career with “Dancing with the Stars,” Burgess revealed her shock about not being invited back for season 32. After taking a break to focus on motherhood, she had hoped to resume her role on the show. “I wasn’t expecting it, it was tough,” she confessed on her podcast. She recounted her tumultuous experiences over the last five years, attributing some of the shifts to changes in production staff and decisions made by the new executive producer.
In the time away from the show, Burgess has been navigating parenthood, wedding planning, and managing her podcast. She has also participated in special events, including a “Dancing with the Stars” fan convention in summer 2026, where she reconnected with former cast members and enthusiasts of the show.
As Burgess prepares for her comeback in season 35, she has openly expressed her eagerness to return to the ballroom. Fans are equally thrilled to witness her re-engagement with the dance floor and her interactions with newcomers and returning stars alike.
As the buzz around the new season continues to grow, Sharna Burgess’s re-entry into “Dancing with the Stars” marks not only a personal milestone for the dancer but also a significant moment for the show’s loyal followers. With the premiere date approaching, all eyes are on the ballroom as Burgess prepares to showcase her skills once again and connect with her audience.