Carrie Ann Inaba and Val Chmerkovskiy Mend Fences in 'DWTS' Ballroom
The "Dancing with the Stars" judge and professional dancer shared a "cathartic" conversation following a week of drama and Chmerkovskiy's suspension.
Carrie Ann Inaba and Val Chmerkovskiy engaged in a "cathartic" conversation in the "Dancing with the Stars" ballroom on Tuesday, marking a reconciliation after recent tensions.
The exchange occurred after the "Horror Movie Night" live show and was captured in an Instagram video shared by People, showing the two speaking closely and holding hands before embracing.
"So everyone’s staring. We are coworkers and we are completely cordial," Inaba addressed the audience, adding, "We are good, okay?"
Chmerkovskiy, who had recently returned to the show after a one-week suspension, described the conversation with Inaba as providing "cathartic relief." He told People that it was important for him to ensure Inaba felt safe and understood his genuine respect and well wishes for her.
"I will have nothing but love for Carrie Ann," Chmerkovskiy stated. "I have nothing but respect for what she has to say."
Chmerkovskiy's suspension stemmed from his social media activity following an on-air exchange between Inaba and his wife, fellow pro Jenna Johnson, during "Super Bowl Night" on Oct. 13. Inaba had critiqued Johnson and her partner Harry Shum Jr.'s samba, including a lift. Reports indicated Johnson was upset backstage, and Chmerkovskiy subsequently posted a now-deleted TikTok referencing Will Smith's Oscars slap, which drew criticism.
Chmerkovskiy later apologized for the social media post, but was suspended for "Dedication Night," during which his celebrity partner, Jenna Dewan, performed with professional dancer Alan Bersten.
Upon his return for "Horror Movie Night," Chmerkovskiy apologized to Dewan for the disruption his suspension caused. "You did not sign up for that, and I feel awful," he told her.
Inaba had previously addressed the controversy on Instagram, stating that she and Johnson had spoken and resolved their conflict. "Jenna was an absolute professional about it, and two women worked through the moment," Inaba said. "It came to my attention later that Jenna was deeply hurt. So I also offered to speak with her at any time."
Following the incident, Inaba also suggested a review of the show's lift rules for the upcoming season, citing the program's evolution since its 2005 premiere.