Jenna Johnson Reportedly Cried Backstage After Tense Exchange with 'DWTS' Judge Carrie Ann Inaba
A source claims the 'Dancing with the Stars' pro was upset following criticism from Carrie Ann Inaba, with her husband Val Chmerkovskiy reportedly expressing anger.
“Dancing with the Stars” pro Jenna Johnson became emotional backstage after a contentious critique from judge Carrie Ann Inaba during Tuesday’s episode, according to a report.
A source told The Sun that Johnson “broke down” and that “the floodgates of emotion burst open and she was crying” once she had a moment alone. The insider added that Johnson’s husband, fellow pro dancer Val Chmerkovskiy, was present and “pissed” about the interaction.
"Jenna was sad and upset by Carrie Ann’s feedback, but Val was furious that she talked to his wife like that,” the source claimed.
The report also indicated that Johnson “feels terrible” for her celebrity partner, Harry Shum Jr., but is determined to improve their performance next week.
During the “Super Bowl Night” episode, Inaba critiqued Johnson and Shum Jr.’s samba, identifying a lift as a violation of the competition’s rules. Inaba read the definition of a lift from a paper, stating, “a lift is any movement during which one of the dancers has both feet off the floor at the same time with the assistance or support of their partner.” She also advised Shum Jr. to “put more content in [his] dances.”
Following the judges' comments, Johnson told co-host Julianne Hough that she understood Inaba’s feedback, stating, “I thought it was if you lifted your partner. But I totally hear Carrie Ann. I will take it. Sure.”
In a separate statement to E! News after the show, Johnson expressed willingness to accept feedback, saying, “Again, this is a competition. There are judges for a reason. They do need to give feedback. So, yeah, we will take it.”
Chmerkovskiy reportedly defended his wife on social media, referencing the 2022 Oscars incident involving Will Smith. In a since-deleted TikTok status, he wrote, “You almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom last night.” He further commented under another TikTok video, “Puts some respect on her name. Shes trippin talking to her like that.”
“Dancing with the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and streams on Disney+.