DWTS Addresses Val Chmerkovskiy’s Return After Suspension on Horror Night
Professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy returned to "Dancing With the Stars" for the Horror Movie episode after a one-week suspension, and the show acknowledged his comeback during a pre-performance video.
Val Chmerkovskiy rejoined his partner Jenna Dewan for the Horror Movie episode of "Dancing With the Stars" after serving a one-week suspension for a comment referencing the Will Smith Oscars incident. The show did not explain his absence during the preceding Dedication Night, aside from co-host Alfonso Ribeiro noting his non-attendance at the episode’s start.
The couple’s return was highlighted in a video package aired before their Argentine tango inspired by zombie films. In the pre-taped segment, Chmerkovskiy said, "We are back together. I am so sorry for all the chaos. You did not sign up for that, and I feel awful," to which Dewan replied, "I forgive you," and they embraced.
During the live critiques, judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Derek Hough praised Chmerkovskiy’s choreography, with Inaba stating, "Incredible choreography, Val. I wanna say that first. Incredible," before commenting on Dewan’s performance. The episode did not revisit the earlier controversy, and the pair survived the double elimination, securing a spot for the upcoming Disney-themed episode.
After the broadcast, a video of Inaba and Chmerkovskiy hugging post-show circulated online. Inaba told People the moment felt "cathartic relief," and Chmerkovskiy expressed that he wants "nothing but love" and respect for Inaba.
The dispute originated from a Super Bowl-themed episode where Inaba critiqued Chmerkovskiy’s wife, professional dancer Lindsay Johnson, over a lift in a routine. Inaba later clarified on Instagram that she had not discussed the incident publicly out of professional courtesy, offered to speak with Johnson, and suggested revisiting the lift rule for future seasons.