DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Faces Backlash After Harsh Critique of Pro Jenna Johnson

Key points

• Inaba criticized Johnson's choreography for lacking a lift, a move Johnson questioned on air.
• Val Chmerkovskiy posted a TikTok Story referencing the 2022 Oscars slap, which fans interpreted as a threat toward Inaba.
• Harry Shum Jr. urged fans to take a deep breath, while Johnson stated she respects the judges and will take the feedback.
• The duo scored 33/40, with Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli each giving an eight, and guest judge Joe Buck giving a nine.

Background

This incident occurred during the Super Bowl Night episode of 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 35, which had recently premiered with the elimination of new professional dancers. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between judges and professional dancers regarding feedback and scoring.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter emphasized Val Chmerkovskiy's viral TikTok post and the comparisons to the 2022 Oscars slap, noting the post was deleted after six hours. Us Weekly focused on Harry Shum Jr.'s call for calm and Jenna Johnson's statement that she respects the judges and will take the feedback. Yahoo Entertainment highlighted Chmerkovskiy's demand for Inaba to 'get some consistency' and a source's claim that Johnson 'broke down backstage' and was comforted by a 'furious' Val. The outlets differ in their emphasis on the emotional fallout versus the professional response, with THR focusing on the viral social media aspect and Us Weekly on the dancers' direct reactions.

Why it matters

The incident raises questions about the boundaries of judge feedback and the potential for public backlash in reality television, particularly when personal relationships and social media are involved. It also highlights the pressure on professional dancers to meet high standards and the impact of public criticism on their careers.

What to watch

The situation may continue to generate discussion on social media, and it could influence how judges provide feedback in future episodes. There is no indication of any official response from ABC or the show's producers, but the controversy may affect the dynamics between judges and dancers in subsequent performances.