DWTS judge Carrie Ann Inaba explains Val Chmerkovskiy's suspension and lift rule dispute
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba said she remained silent on Val Chmerkovskiy's one-week suspension out of professional courtesy and described a backstage clash over a lift with his wife, Jenna Johnson, during the show’s Super Bowl Night.
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba said she did not comment on Val Chmerkovskiy’s recent suspension initially because of “professional courtesy” toward the remaining competitors. In a Instagram comment she noted that the show’s standards keep judges and dancers separate and that media coverage missed key details.
During the October 13 “Super Bowl Night” episode, Inaba and pro dancer Jenna Johnson, Chmerkovskiy’s wife, disagreed over a lift performed in Johnson’s samba with partner Harry Shum Jr. Johnson reportedly became upset backstage, and Chmerkovskiy later comforted her. Inaba said the two women later reconciled, describing Johnson as “an absolute professional” and offering to discuss the lift rule with her.
Inaba, often referred to as the “lift police,” highlighted a video by fellow pro Sharna Burgess that explains which lifts are permitted in various dances. She also suggested a meeting with all dancers and judges to review the history and purpose of the lift rule, emphasizing safety and fairness as the rationale.
Chmerkovskiy’s suspension, linked to a social-media post referencing a recent Oscars incident, was lifted on October 21, and he is set to return for the “Horror Movie Night” episode. He had previously apologized for the post after it drew backlash.
"Jenna was an absolute professional about it, and two women worked through the moment," Inaba wrote.
"The show has evolved tremendously… working together to create a better understanding between the dancers and the judges, and our audience is important to me as we move forward," Inaba added.