Val Chmerkovskiy Benched from DWTS After Social Media Incident

The controversy stems from a deleted post in which Chmerkovskiy invoked the 2022 Oscars altercation between Will Smith and Chris Rock to criticize Inaba’s feedback on a lift performed by his wife, Jenna Johnson. Although Chmerkovskiy issued a public apology, BBC Productions deemed the commentary inappropriate, stating that the program’s standards remain non-negotiable regardless of a performer’s historical standing as a franchise favorite.

During his absence, his celebrity partner Jenna Dewan will perform a Viennese waltz alongside Alan Bersten. Chmerkovskiy has reportedly encouraged Dewan to maintain her focus, expressing confidence in the temporary partnership. The shift has nonetheless invited external critique, with fellow pro Gleb Savchenko questioning Bersten’s technical prowess during an Instagram Live session. Meanwhile, Dewan’s fiancé, Steve Kazee, has publicly rallied behind her, praising her composure as she prepares for the show’s Dedication Night.