Val Chmerkovskiy and Carrie Ann Inaba have seemingly reconciled following a recent controversy surrounding the judge’s critique of Chmerkovskiy’s wife, Jenna Johnson, on the reality competition show *Dancing with the Stars*. The two were spotted engaging in a warm conversation and embracing each other in the programme’s ballroom on Tuesday, 27 October, shortly after Chmerkovskiy returned from a brief suspension.
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The incident in question unfolded during an episode that aired on 13 October, when Inaba commented on a lift performed by Johnson and her celebrity partner, Harry Shum Jr. Following this critique, Chmerkovskiy posted a now-deleted remark on TikTok that drew parallels to the infamous Oscars incident in 2022, where Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock over a joke made about his wife. The unguarded comment led to a one-episode suspension for Chmerkovskiy on the show.
In a candid discussion captured on video and shared by *PEOPLE*, Inaba, 58, and Chmerkovskiy, 40, appeared to address the tension stemming from the incident. During their exchange, Inaba acknowledged the onlookers around them, stating: “So everyone’s staring. We are coworkers and we are completely cordial. We are good, okay?” This prompted cheers from the audience present.
Following their conversation, Chmerkovskiy expressed relief at having the opportunity to speak with Inaba. He commented, “It felt cathartic relief, you know? I think it was just really important for me to make sure that she feels safe and knows that, firsthand from me, I want nothing but love for her.” He emphasised his sincere feelings for Inaba, stating he holds her in high regard and respects her opinion.
Prior to this reconciliatory moment, Chmerkovskiy had publicly apologised for his earlier comments, describing them as a misstep. He missed the “Dedication Night” episode on 20 October as a consequence of his actions but returned to the ballroom the following week, ready to make amends.
Inaba also addressed the situation on her social media. In a series of posts, she explained her decision to remain subdued throughout the ensuing drama out of respect for the competitors still in the running and the programme’s established standards. She reassured fans that she had already resolved her disagreements with Johnson after the critique, noting, “Jenna was an absolute professional about it, and two women worked through the moment.”
The tension was further alleviated during practice when Johnson, who also participated in the show, reunited with Chmerkovskiy. He extended his apologies to her for the chaos instigated by the controversy. In a show of goodwill, Johnson embraced him, saying, “I forgive you.”
Later that evening, Chmerkovskiy and Johnson went on to perform an Argentine tango to “Uninvited” by Damned Anthem and Kendra Dantes. Despite a minor wardrobe malfunction during the show, the couple’s performance garnered positive feedback from the judges. Inaba lauded Chmerkovskiy’s choreography and commended Johnson’s execution, remarking that her performance demonstrated “fine-tooth precision.”
The duo achieved a score of 37 out of 40 points for their dance, with judges Bruno Tonioli and guest judge Shirley Ballas each awarding nine points, and Derek Hough giving them a perfect ten. Their overall score across the performances over the two weeks totaled 74.
*Dancing with the Stars* continues to air every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. The show has captivated audiences since its debut in 2005, becoming a staple of American entertainment, and continues to draw a loyal fanbase eager to witness the latest performances and dynamics among cast members.