Cheryl Burke is speaking out in defense of Carrie Ann Inaba, noting that the longtime Dancing with the Stars judge has always received harsher criticism from fans compared to her male counterparts.
Cheryl Burke on Fan Criticism
Burke, 41, who spent 20 seasons as a professional dancer on DWTS, will return as a guest judge for the Oct. 28 episode. Ahead of her appearance, she shared her perspective on the judging panel’s dynamic.
“I think that’s always been the case,” Burke told Variety. “And she has openly talked about it, how it’s harder for her.”
Burke emphasized that Inaba, 57, continues to excel in her role despite the scrutiny:
“At the end of the day, this is her job, and she’s doing her job, and she’s doing it well.”
Personal Experience Shapes Burke’s Perspective
Having faced criticism herself, Burke relates to Inaba’s experience.
“I’ve experienced it, but in a different way,” she said. “I’m outspoken about something vs. somebody who is a man, I do see the difference. But you don’t do it for the outside reaction.”
Burke’s insight highlights the double standard often faced by women in entertainment, even on shows like DWTS.
Burke’s Emotional Return to the DWTS Ballroom
Burke’s return is notable, given her complex feelings about leaving the show after Season 31 in 2022. She previously shared on her podcast, Sex, Lies and Spray Tans, that she felt excluded from a tribute dance for judge Len Goodman’s passing, which she described as “so personal.”
Reflecting on her exit, Burke admitted:
“Did I really want to leave it for good and be done? No. [DWTS] was my identity… I credit them for giving me a voice in general.”
Despite not feeling full closure, Burke maintains no ill will toward her former colleagues:
“But I could still be really hurt and disappointed that I’ve lost friendships along the way, and that is called grieving. Everyone grieves differently, and for me, because a lot of these people I’ve known for almost two decades, it’s going to take time to really put that to rest.”
Dancing with the Stars Airs Tuesdays on ABC
Fans can catch Burke as a guest judge on the Oct. 28 episode, with the show airing Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
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