Consequences of an Inappropriate Post
Val Chmerkovskiy, a longtime professional dancer on Dancing With the Stars, has been benched for the upcoming live broadcast. This disciplinary action follows a controversial social media post he directed at show judge Carrie Ann Inaba.
In an official statement released on Saturday, October 17, a representative for BBC Studios emphasized the production's commitment to maintaining a professional environment: «The well-being of everyone who works on Dancing with the Stars is non-negotiable. Val’s social media post was inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show. As a result, he will not participate in next week’s show.»
The Origin of the Conflict
The friction between the pro dancer and the judge began earlier this month during the show's Super Bowl-themed episode. Inaba, 58, critiqued a lift performed by Chmerkovskiy’s wife, professional dancer Jenna Johnson, during her routine with partner Harry Shum Jr. While Johnson initially accepted the feedback, her husband took to social media to express his frustration, sparking an online exchange that eventually drew in Inaba.
Chmerkovskiy’s inflammatory comment referenced the 2022 Oscars incident where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock, implying a similar reaction to protect his wife. Although the message was later deleted, Inaba responded directly to the remark on social media, questioning the professional conduct of the dancer.
Chmerkovskiy’s Public Apology
Following the decision to bench him, the 40-year-old dancer issued a formal apology acknowledging his lapse in judgment. He stated:
«I want to apologize from the bottom of my heart for my recent post. I have reached out to Carrie Ann to apologize directly and personally and I also want to apologize publicly as I understand my words affect so many outside our internal DWTS family. I should never have made the reference that I did and I deeply regret it.»
Chmerkovskiy further expressed that he recognizes his position as a public figure and a role model, promising to exercise greater care and thought before posting content in the future. He concluded his statement by expressing sincere regret to both Inaba and anyone else affected by his actions.