Cheryl Burke, the renowned professional dancer and television personality, is making a highly anticipated return to Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). The former DWTS pro, who left the show in 2022 after an impressive 17-year tenure, is stepping back into the spotlight as a guest judge for the upcoming episode airing Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Her return marks a special moment not only for fans of the iconic dance competition series but also for Burke herself, who has had a candid relationship with the show over the years.

Cheryl Burke Reflects on Her DWTS Journey

During an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Cheryl Burke opened up about her time away from the show and her feelings about returning. “It’s gonna be emotional, but I am here in a different way this time,” Burke shared. “I’m here for the couples, and I really hope to be able to give constructive criticism, but also be encouraging. And I know what it takes. I have been there.”

Burke’s career on DWTS spans 26 seasons, a testament to her dedication and impact on the show. Despite leaving the series in 2022, her passion for dance and the DWTS community has remained strong. Over the years, she has been candid about her experiences, including her disappointment with certain aspects of the show, saying that her exit involved “fighting” for her farewell performance and even losing some friendships along the way.

No Regrets About Speaking Out

Cheryl Burke has never shied away from sharing her truth about her DWTS experience. In recent interviews, she has expressed disappointment over not being invited back to pay tribute to the late judge Len Goodman during the show’s October 2023 “Most Memorable Year” episode. At the time, she remarked that she no longer felt like part of the DWTS family.

Despite this, Burke now emphasizes that she has no regrets about speaking her mind. “It’s my experience,” she said. “Unfortunately, when it comes to headlines, I can’t control that, and we all know that headlines, unfortunately, sometimes focus on negative stuff. But within the context of what I’ve always said, I’ve always gone back to the fact of how grateful I am to have been a part of such a huge, iconic show like Dancing with the Stars.”

Her reflections underscore a mature perspective on her professional journey, recognizing both the challenges and rewards of being part of such a celebrated series.

A Special Guest Judge Appearance

Burke will join DWTS judges Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli as a guest judge, bringing her wealth of experience and keen eye for performance back to the ballroom. “Calling it nerves will only bring anxiety, so I’m gonna try and switch that to excitement,” Burke shared about her upcoming appearance. Fans can expect her to offer both constructive critiques and heartfelt encouragement to the competing couples.

Burke admits that her time away has made this reunion even more significant. She has not interacted much with the other pros or judges over the past three years, except for exchanging a few texts with Emma Slater before the current season began. “It’s gonna be a huge reunion for sure,” she said, adding that her return is not just about the competition, but about reconnecting with the DWTS community she has shaped for nearly two decades.

Celebrating DWTS Milestones

With Dancing with the Stars surpassing 20 years on air, Cheryl Burke’s decision to return feels like a full-circle moment. She reflects on how the show has shaped her career and personal growth. “No matter what was said or whatever, at the end of the day, it really goes back to the fact that this show has brought so much to my life. It has taught me to have my own voice… It has shaped me into the woman I am today, and I have never denied that,” she said.

Burke’s story is a reminder of how DWTS has impacted not just its contestants but also the professionals behind the scenes. Her journey exemplifies resilience, authenticity, and gratitude—qualities that resonate deeply with fans of the series.

Looking Forward

As Cheryl Burke returns to DWTS, viewers can anticipate a combination of heartfelt moments, expert dance critiques, and a celebration of the show’s enduring legacy. Her appearance serves as a reminder of the show’s influence on American television and pop culture, and the indelible mark she has left as one of its most iconic professional dancers.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+. Fans can tune in to witness Cheryl Burke’s return and see her once again grace the DWTS ballroom with the expertise and charm that made her a fan favorite.