Val Chmerkovskiy has made a return to *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS) after being suspended for a week due to inappropriate remarks aimed at judge Carrie Ann Inaba. Chmerkovskiy, 40, had reacted to Inaba’s critique of his wife, Jenna Johnson, during the episode on 13 October. His return marks a significant moment in the show’s history as it’s the first time a contestant has received a suspension for their conduct.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/dwts-Chmerkovskiy-dewan-101926-0c37c06f13b54ed688afed4eab738aa2.jpg)
Chmerkovskiy rejoined his dance partner, actress Jenna Dewan, in rehearsals following a one-show hiatus. On 20 October, professional dancer Alan Bersten filled in for him during the series’ “Dedication Night” episode, ensuring Dewan could still perform despite Chmerkovskiy’s absence. Having concluded his suspension, Chmerkovskiy is anticipated to be back on screen for the episode airing on 27 October.
During the controversial episode, Inaba provided feedback on a samba performance by Johnson and Harry Shum Jr., highlighting an illegal lift that had occurred. Chmerkovskiy’s discontent became apparent when he took to social media. In a now-deleted TikTok comment, he referenced an infamous incident involving Will Smith at the Academy Awards, suggesting that he felt compelled to protect his wife’s honour. The comment drew backlash, prompting the producers to act.
Following the incident, BBC Studios, which produces DWTS, issued a statement affirming their commitment to maintaining a professional atmosphere. “The well-being of everyone who works on *Dancing with the Stars* is non-negotiable,” they declared, confirming Chmerkovskiy’s suspension for inappropriate comments. The decision underscores the show’s efforts to uphold its standards and values.
During Chmerkovskiy’s absence, Bersten and Dewan delivered a Viennese waltz that Dewan dedicated to her mother, adding a personal touch to the performance. Despite having been eliminated earlier in the season, Bersten’s participation was received positively, with Chmerkovskiy publicly thanking him afterwards for stepping in and supporting Dewan.
In examining the impact of Chmerkovskiy’s comments, it is clear that the incident has raised concerns about the behaviour of contestants and the ramifications of their statements on social media. Inaba responded to the remarks with a post that questioned the implications of Chmerkovskiy’s actions, reflecting the seriousness with which such matters are approached within the competitive environment of the show.
Chmerkovskiy later expressed regret over his comments in an Instagram statement. He acknowledged the negative consequences of his words, extending an apology to Inaba as well as to those who may have been affected. He emphasised that his intention was never to put the judge in an uncomfortable position, stating, “I should have never made the reference that I did and I deeply regret it.”
The pro dancer further explained that his instinctive urge to defend his wife clouded his judgement, resulting in a careless remark. In his apology, he portrayed a desire to learn from the incident and commit to more thoughtful behaviour moving forward.
As the show continues, Chmerkovskiy has called for support and understanding for both Inaba and Dewan, signalling his commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere for all participants. “Please send Carrie Ann, Jenna, and the whole DWTS family lots of love during Dedication Night,” he urged.
*Dancing with the Stars* remains a popular fixture on Tuesday nights, airing at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+. The ongoing drama surrounding Chmerkovskiy’s suspension and subsequent return has captivated audiences, illuminating the pressures that often accompany competitive performance realities.