Dancing With the Stars Skips Week 6 Elimination, Setting Up 2 Exits Next Week

Q: What shocking behind-the-scenes drama led to Val Chmerkovskiy's sudden suspension during DWTS's most emotional night?

Val Chmerkovskiy was suspended for one week after posting an “inappropriate” social media comment aimed at judge Carrie Ann Inaba following her criticism of his wife, fellow pro Jenna Johnson. The backstage drama began after the Oct. 13 “Super Bowl Night” episode, when Inaba called out Johnson and partner Harry Shum Jr. for what she said was an illegal lift in their samba. Johnson appeared surprised, and the moment sparked debate among fans online. Chmerkovskiy then escalated the situation with a since-deleted TikTok post saying, “You almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom last night,” a remark widely interpreted as a reference to Will Smith’s slap of Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars over comments about Smith’s wife. Producers viewed that as crossing a line. BBC Studios, which produces *Dancing With the Stars*, said the post “was inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show,” adding that “the well-being of everyone who works on” the show is “non-negotiable.” As a result, Chmerkovskiy was removed from Dedication Night. Chmerkovskiy later apologized publicly and said he had acted out of instinct to defend his wife, but admitted it was “a poor decision” and “bad judgment.” With Val sidelined, Alan Bersten stepped in to dance with Jenna Dewan on the episode.

2 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated Lifestyle · Oct 21

Week 6 ended without an elimination on "Dancing With the Stars" Season 35, with the show saying two contestants will go home on Oct. 27 instead.
Dedication Week centered on emotional routines for family, mentors and late friends, with surprise guest appearances woven into several performances.
Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov topped the night with 38/40 for a contemporary routine dedicated to Glenn’s sister, while Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach and Jenna Dewan with stand-in pro Alan Bersten each scored 37/40.
The episode also featured a personal reveal from Tyler Cameron, whose fiancée announced her pregnancy and that they are expecting a girl during their routine.
The no-elimination format follows Week 5, when Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson were sent home after landing near the bottom of the leaderboard again.