Jenna Dewan on DWTS Partner's Suspension: 'The Show Must Go On'

Jenna Dewan emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability in show business following her "Dancing With the Stars" partner Val Chmerkovskiy's one-week suspension. Chmerkovskiy was suspended after referencing Will Smith's Oscars slap in a since-deleted TikTok post, which drew criticism from fans.

Dewan, performing with temporary partner Alan Bersten, stated that the unexpected circumstances required a quick pivot. "I learned this early on — in life, but also especially in our business — that the show must go on," Dewan told "Good Morning America." "Sometimes, unexpected things happen and you have to pivot. And then your job is to make the best of that, and your mental game is what you’re in control of."

Dewan and Bersten had only two and a half days to rehearse their routine for "Dedication Night." Bersten, who stepped in for Chmerkovskiy, explained that Chmerkovskiy had provided flexibility regarding the choreography, telling him, "Change whatever you want. Do whatever you want. Just enjoy."

Dewan performed a Viennese waltz to "Unchained Melody" in honor of her mother, earning her first 10 of the season and a total score of 37 out of 40. The performance was praised by judges Derek Hough as a "class act" and by Carrie Ann Inaba as the "ultimate breakthrough."

Chmerkovskiy's suspension was announced after his reference to the Oscars slap drew backlash. He issued a public apology before the suspension was confirmed by the show's producer. While watching from home, Chmerkovskiy expressed his gratitude to Bersten on Instagram for stepping in.

Sources confirmed that Chmerkovskiy's suspension has since been lifted, and he is expected to rejoin Dewan for rehearsals leading up to next week's "Horror Movie Night" episode, which will feature the elimination of two couples. The show producers previously stated that Chmerkovskiy accepted the suspension gracefully.