After a 1-Week Suspension and Backstage Drama, Val Chmerkovskiy and Carrie Ann Inaba Reconcile at the DWTS Judges’ Table

Veteran judge Carrie Ann Inaba and professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy officially put their recent ballroom controversy to rest during a face-to-face reconciliation immediately following the “Horror Movie Night” broadcast. The two were seen holding hands and embracing at the judges’ desk in a bid to clear the air following Chmerkovskiy’s recent disciplinary absence.

The post-show conversation closed the chapter on days of intense public speculation regarding tension between the panel and the dance pro. Addressing spectators directly from the ballroom floor, Inaba made their current standing abundantly clear.

“So everyone’s staring. We are coworkers and we are completely cordial. We are good, OK?”

That open declaration directly contradicted rumors of an irreparable rift on set.

Carrie Ann Inaba and Val Chmerkovskiy talking at the judges’ table.

Carrie Ann Inaba during the Dancing with the Stars live broadcast.

What Sparked the Suspension and Backstage Fallout?

The conflict originated during “Super Bowl Night” on Oct. 13 after a sharp technical critique. Inaba called out an illegal lift during a samba performed by professional dancer Jenna Johnson and her celebrity partner Harry Shum Jr.

Johnson reportedly broke down backstage after the judging panel docked points for the routine. The situation escalated rapidly when Johnson’s husband, 40-year-old Chmerkovskiy, posted a reaction on social media referencing Will Smith’s infamous Oscars slap.

In the now-deleted TikTok post, Chmerkovskiy wrote that viewers “almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom.” The remark triggered swift public backlash and an immediate response from production executives.

“I think it was just really important for me to make sure that she feels safe and knows that, firsthand from me, I want nothing but love for her.”

Chmerkovskiy issued an apology, but the remark resulted in a one-week suspension that benched him during “Dedication Night.”

Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy on Dancing with the Stars.

Dancing with the Stars ballroom stage.

How the Suspension Impacted the Competition

The disciplinary action created immediate logistical hurdles on the dance floor. Celebrity partner Jenna Dewan was forced to pivot without her regular mentor during a critical live performance.

Pro Alan Bersten stepped in on short notice to partner Dewan for a Viennese waltz on “Dedication Night.” When Chmerkovskiy returned to the rehearsal studio ahead of “Horror Movie Night,” he expressed deep regret directly to Dewan.

“You did not sign up for that, and I feel awful,” he told Dewan, apologizing for dragging their partnership into off-floor drama.

Carrie Ann Inaba seated at the judges’ desk.

Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson on the ballroom floor.

Ballroom Reality vs. Online Speculation

While social media narratives framed the incident as a permanent workplace feud, internal communication resolved the dispute quickly behind the scenes.

Val Chmerkovskiy in Los Angeles, California.

Jenna Dewan and Alan Bersten performing together on Dedication Night.

Will DWTS Overhaul Its Lift Policy?

The confrontation has pushed standard competition mechanics into the national spotlight. The ABC franchise has strictly penalized unintentional and intentional lifts in non-lift dance styles since its debut in 2005.

Inaba acknowledged that the show has evolved dramatically across its run, stating that a revision to traditional lift enforcement might be necessary moving forward.

With Chmerkovskiy back on the dance floor and both parties expressing mutual professional support, the production moves forward with its roster intact and its judging table unified.

💬 The tension between strict technical scoring and emotional loyalty routinely tests pro-judge dynamics under the ballroom lights.

✨ Both Inaba and Chmerkovskiy proved that direct communication can defuse high-pressure workplace conflicts.

👇 Do you think the show should officially drop its strict ban on lifts? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: pagesix.com