DWTS Judge Inaba and Pro Chmerkovskiy Reconcile After Viral Suspension
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba and pro dancer Val Chmerkovskiy publicly reconciled on the 'Dancing With The Stars' set following his one-week suspension. The dispute originated from Inaba's critique of a lift in Jenna Johnson's performance, which prompted Chmerkovskiy to post a controversial reference to the 2022 Oscars incident. Chmerkovskiy apologized, and Inaba proposed new rules for lifts to prevent future conflicts.
Key points
- Inaba and Chmerkovskiy hugged on the Oct. 27 set, signaling the end of their dispute.
- Chmerkovskiy was suspended for one week after posting a comment referencing Will Smith's 2022 Oscar slap.
- Inaba proposed a new lift rule for next season, involving judges and dancers in a joint discussion.
- Jenna Johnson supported Inaba's proposal for clearer rules, stating it would help all professionals.
- BBC Studios called Chmerkovskiy's post inappropriate and not reflective of the show's standards.
Background
This incident follows a tense exchange during the Oct. 13 'Super Bowl Night' episode, where Inaba criticized a lift in Jenna Johnson's samba routine. The controversy escalated when Chmerkovskiy, Johnson's husband, posted a social media comment referencing the 2022 Oscars incident, leading to his suspension. Previous coverage highlighted the tension and the subsequent apology from Chmerkovskiy.
How outlets are covering it
Deadline and Yahoo emphasized the public reconciliation and the viral nature of the hug, highlighting the professional resolution. Variety focused on Inaba's call for a new lift rule, noting her desire for a joint discussion with dancers and judges. E! News highlighted Jenna Johnson's support for the new rule, indicating a broader acceptance of the proposed changes. All sources agree on the facts of the suspension and apology but differ in emphasis, with some focusing on the personal reconciliation and others on the procedural changes.
Why it matters
The reconciliation and proposed rule changes indicate a shift in how 'Dancing With The Stars' handles disputes and rule enforcement, potentially improving the show's professionalism and clarity for future seasons.
What to watch
The show will likely implement the proposed lift rule changes for the next season, and the focus will return to the competition as the remaining couples continue their performances.
- Carrie Ann Inaba & Val Chmerkovskiy Hug It Out After 'Dancing With The Stars' Suspension Drama Deadline
- Val Chmerkovskiy and Carrie Ann Inaba have made peace. How the 'Dancing With the Stars' controversy unfolded. Yahoo
- Carrie Ann Inaba on Val Chmerkovskiy's 'DWTS' Suspension, New Lift Rule Variety
- DWTS ' Jenna Johnson Reacts to Carrie Ann Inaba's New Lift Rule Comments E! News
- Carrie Ann Inaba and Val Chmerkovskiy Clear the Air in ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Ballroom People.com
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