DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Calls for New Lift Rule After Val Chmerkovskiy Suspension

Judge Carrie Ann Inaba used Instagram to clarify her stance on the recent "Dancing With the Stars" incident involving professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy. She said she had not commented earlier out of professional courtesy to the competitors still on the show and noted that the program has internal standards separating judges from participants.

Inaba explained that she and contestant Jenna Johnson reconciled after the October 20 episode, during which Johnson’s husband was benched following an inappropriate comment directed at Inaba. She added that Johnson was deeply hurt and offered to discuss the lift rule with her at any time.

"I think a new lift rule should be created for next season. A session with all the dancers and judges to discuss the history and purpose of the lift rule – safety and fairness – would help everyone understand the expectations," Inaba wrote.

Inaba has previously deducted points for lifts, a practice that has drawn criticism from some contestants who allege inconsistent enforcement. She urged the show’s producers to convene a meeting to update the rule in line with the program’s evolution and audience expectations.

Following the episode, Chmerkovskiy posted a TikTok referencing a popular meme, which was later removed after fans criticized it as inappropriate. BBC Studios responded by stating that the well-being of the show’s staff is non-negotiable and announced that Chmerkovskiy would miss the upcoming Dedication Night.

"Val’s social media post was inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show," the studio said in a statement.

Chmerkovskiy later issued an apology on Instagram, acknowledging his poor judgment in using the meme and expressing regret for involving Inaba in the dispute.