After three years away, Cheryl Burke is returning to the Dancing with the Stars ballroom as a guest judge for the highly anticipated Halloween episode. The former pro, who departed in 2022, is looking forward to an emotional reunion with her former castmates, sharing her expertise, and offering encouraging advice to the nine remaining couples, emphasizing authenticity over perfection in the demanding competition.
The ballroom is buzzing with excitement as veteran professional dancer and two-time Mirrorball champion Cheryl Burke prepares to make her grand return to Dancing with the Stars. After a three-year hiatus, Burke, 41, is stepping back into the spotlight not as a competitor, but as a guest judge for the show’s festive Halloween episode, set to air on Tuesday, October 28. This highly anticipated appearance marks her first time back since her emotional departure in 2022, promising a nostalgic and exhilarating reunion for both fans and former colleagues.
An Emotional Homecoming: Three Years Later
Burke’s return to Dancing with the Stars is more than just a judging stint; it’s an emotional homecoming. Having dedicated 26 seasons as a professional dancer to the competition, the show holds a profound significance in her life. “I think that it just felt right,” Burke explained in an interview with People, emphasizing the show’s 20th-anniversary celebration. She credits DWTS with teaching her “to have my own voice” and shaping her into the woman she is today.
For fans, Burke’s presence at the judges’ table alongside Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli is a welcome sight. Her deep understanding of the show’s intricate dynamics and the immense pressure faced by contestants offers a unique perspective that few guest judges can provide.
Reconnecting with the DWTS Family
One of the most anticipated aspects of Burke’s return is the reunion with her fellow professional dancers. She revealed that she hasn’t been in recent contact with most of the pros, making the Halloween episode a truly special occasion. “Emma [Slater] and I texted maybe before the season started,” Burke shared, as reported by Parade, but for the majority, it will be their first face-to-face interaction in years.
The three-year gap since her last dance in 2022 has felt both long and fleeting to Burke. “It’s three years, yet it feels like yesterday. But three years. It’s been a while. I can’t believe it’s been three years,” she reflected, acknowledging the bittersweet passage of time. Her excitement for this “huge reunion” is palpable, and she’s actively working to channel any potential nerves into positive anticipation.
A Judge’s Perspective: Empathy and Expertise
With 26 seasons of experience as a pro, Burke brings an unparalleled level of empathy and expertise to the judging panel. She understands the physical and mental toll the competition takes, especially as it progresses. “I really hope to be able to give constructive criticism, but also be encouraging,” she stated. Burke is keenly aware that at this point in the competition, “people are exhausted. The fatigue has set in, and it looks like there’s no light at the end of the tunnel.” Her past role allows her to offer feedback that is not only technical but also deeply understanding of the dancers’ journey.
The “Dance Monster-thon” and Enduring Advice
The upcoming Halloween episode will feature the show’s iconic dance marathon, rebranded as the “Dance Monster-thon.” This grueling segment sees the nine remaining couples dancing simultaneously until judges tap them out one by one. Burke noted the intensity of this challenge, highlighting how it reveals the true contenders. “The pressure is either gonna take them out of the competition, or it’s only gonna fuel fire,” she observed.
When asked for her ultimate advice to the couples, Burke offered timeless wisdom: “Don’t aim for perfection, because what is that, anyway?” She underscored the beauty in flaws, adding, “Beauty is in the imperfections, for sure, and to always dance as if it’s your last dance, because you never know.” This philosophy resonates deeply with both the competitive spirit of DWTS and the broader artistic pursuit of dance.
A Lasting Legacy on the Dance Floor
Cheryl Burke’s impact on Dancing with the Stars is undeniable. As a two-time Mirrorball champion and one of the longest-serving professionals, she has been an integral part of the show’s history and evolution. Her return as a guest judge is a testament to her enduring legacy and the profound connection she shares with the show and its dedicated fanbase. Her insights, passion, and personal journey will undoubtedly enrich the Halloween episode, offering a deeper layer of appreciation for the art and the athletes of the ballroom.
