Cheryl Burke Returns to ‘Dancing with the Stars’ as Guest Judge

The former pro dancer makes a surprise comeback to the ballroom after five years, joining the panel for an emotional night of performances.

Television personality and professional dancer Cheryl Burke has returned to Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) as a guest judge, marking her first appearance on the panel in five years. The longtime pro’s emotional comeback reignited nostalgia among fans, celebrating her legacy as one of the show’s most influential figures.

Bold: Cheryl Burke’s Emotional Return to the Ballroom

Cheryl Burke’s reappearance on Dancing with the Stars captivated audiences who have followed her journey since the show’s early seasons. Known for her precision, passion, and outspoken personality, Burke stepped onto the familiar stage not as a competitor but as a judge — a role that brought both reflection and renewal.

Burke, a two-time Mirrorball Trophy winner, left the show in 2019 after 26 seasons. Her guest return this week reignited memories of her standout performances and long-standing chemistry with fellow pros and celebrities. During her appearance, she shared candid insights about the growth of the series and how the competition continues to evolve in its 33rd season.

Bold: A Legacy Built on Grace and Grit

First joining DWTS in 2006, Burke quickly became one of the most recognizable faces of the franchise. Her early wins with Drew Lachey and Emmitt Smith helped solidify the show’s dominance on ABC’s primetime lineup. Beyond choreography, Burke’s candid interviews and emotional storytelling resonated with viewers around the world.

Reflecting on her return, Burke expressed both gratitude and humility. “It’s like coming home,” she said during the broadcast. “This ballroom taught me discipline, resilience, and so much about who I am today.”

Her appearance served as a reminder of the dancer’s enduring influence, not only as a performer but also as a mentor and advocate for self-expression through movement.

Bold: Guest Judge Role Highlights the Show’s Evolution

Producers of Dancing with the Stars introduced Burke’s guest role as part of a broader effort to celebrate legacy figures in the series. Her judging debut brought a unique blend of technical critique and emotional understanding that stemmed from years of firsthand experience on the dance floor.

Unlike her past appearances, this episode positioned Burke as both a symbol of the show’s roots and a witness to its modern transformation. “You can feel how the show has grown,” she noted. “The dancers are stronger, the choreography is riskier, and the audience is still as passionate as ever.”

Bold: Fan Reactions and Industry Praise

The announcement of Burke’s return sparked an outpouring of enthusiasm across social media platforms. Fans praised her energy, insight, and the nostalgia she brought back to the screen. “It feels like classic DWTS again,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Entertainment analysts noted that the move reinforced ABC’s strategy of blending nostalgia with innovation to keep the long-running competition relevant in a crowded streaming era. Burke’s appearance also coincided with a midseason ratings spike, reflecting renewed interest from longtime viewers.

Bold: From Dancer to Advocate and Entrepreneur

Since leaving Dancing with the Stars, Burke has diversified her career beyond television. She launched a podcast, released a memoir, and became an advocate for mental health awareness, frequently discussing the pressures of fame and performance culture.

Her transition from performer to entrepreneur has been marked by openness and authenticity — qualities that continue to define her public persona. In interviews leading up to her guest appearance, she emphasized the importance of self-care and personal growth, encouraging fans to “embrace every chapter of change.”

Bold: The Possibility of a Permanent Return

While Burke’s appearance was officially billed as a guest stint, her chemistry with fellow judges and visible comfort on set have reignited speculation about a potential long-term role. ABC executives have not confirmed future plans, but Burke hinted at being open to future collaborations.

“For now, I’m just grateful to be part of this incredible family again,” she said. “Whatever happens next, this moment means everything.”

Bold: Dancing with the Stars’ Ongoing Legacy

Now in its 33rd season, Dancing with the Stars continues to blend competition, entertainment, and emotional storytelling. The show remains a platform where celebrities and professional dancers explore personal transformation through performance — a theme that resonates with Burke’s own career evolution.

Her return underscores the timeless appeal of the series, proving that even after decades on the air, DWTS still thrives on authenticity, creativity, and human connection.