Carrie Ann Inaba has addressed recent controversies surrounding "Dancing With the Stars," stating that she and fellow professional dancer Jenna Johnson have resolved their differences. Inaba shared this update via a social media post, aiming to clarify the situation following Val Chmerkovskiy's suspension from the show.
During a previous episode, Inaba had critiqued Johnson and her partner's use of lifts. This led to a public exchange, and subsequently, Johnson's husband, Val Chmerkovskiy, was suspended after posting an inappropriate image online directed at Inaba. Inaba explained that she and Johnson "hugged it out" after the incident, emphasizing Johnson's professionalism.
"It came to my attention later that Jenna was deeply hurt," Inaba wrote on Instagram. "So I also offered to speak with her at anytime." She also expressed openness to discussing the lift rule with the dancers and judges, suggesting that a new rule should be created for future seasons.
Inaba acknowledged that she has faced criticism in the past for her enforcement of the lift rule, with some fans believing she applies it inconsistently. She proposed a session with dancers and judges to discuss the rule's history, its purpose for safety and fairness, and how it has evolved with the show.
Val Chmerkovskiy was suspended from "DWTS" after a social media post that appeared to reference Will Smith's Oscars slap, defending Johnson. BBC Studios stated that Chmerkovskiy's post was "inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show."
Chmerkovskiy later apologized for his post, acknowledging it was a poor decision to reference the meme without fully considering its implications. Inaba's comments come as the show continues its season, with a focus on clarifying judging standards and fostering better understanding between the cast, judges, and audience.