DWTS suspends Val Chmerkovskiy after TikTok post invokes 2022 Oscars slap

Key points

• Chmerkovskiy was suspended for one week by BBC Studios after a deleted TikTok post referencing the 2022 Oscars slap.
• The post read 'You almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom last night' after judge Carrie Ann Inaba criticized a lift in Jenna Johnson's routine.
• Chmerkovskiy apologized on Instagram, stating he made a poor decision to reference a meme to defend his wife without considering the implications.
• Jenna Dewan will compete with Alan Bersten on Dedication Night, performing a Viennese waltz to 'Unchained Melody' dedicated to her mother.
• Inaba responded on social media, thanking media for alerting her to the remark, and accepted Chmerkovskiy's apology.

Background

This incident follows a tense live critique during the 'Super Bowl Night' episode, where Inaba disputed the legality of a lift in Jenna Johnson's routine. Chmerkovskiy had previously issued a public apology on October 16, 2026, after the backlash from his TikTok post. The suspension is described as the first in the show's history, and former pros have weighed in on judging inconsistency.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and the Los Angeles Times both report on the suspension and Chmerkovskiy's apology, emphasizing the impact on Jenna Dewan's competition. Variety notes that Inaba has faced constant booing and criticism in the ballroom, while the Los Angeles Times focuses on Dewan's dedication to her mother. BBC Studios' statement is cited by all sources as the basis for the suspension, with Variety and the Los Angeles Times quoting the statement verbatim. The sources agree on the facts but differ in emphasis, with Variety highlighting the broader context of Inaba's experience and the Los Angeles Times focusing on Dewan's upcoming performance.

Why it matters

The suspension of a long-time pro dancer highlights the show's strict standards for conduct and the impact of social media on professional relationships. It also raises questions about judging consistency and the treatment of female judges, as noted by Inaba's comments to Variety.

What to watch

Chmerkovskiy is expected to return to the show after his one-week suspension. Jenna Dewan will compete with Alan Bersten on Dedication Night, and the show will continue with its regular schedule. The incident may lead to further discussions about judging standards and the treatment of judges on the show.