Cheryl Burke’s DWTS Return: Nostalgia, Tension, and Hope

Cheryl Burke returns to DWTS as a guest judge; an emotional, inspiring, and reunion-filled episode.

Cheryl Burke’s DWTS Return

Cheryl Burke’s return to Dancing with the Stars is more than just a TV moment; it’s an emotional recap of a 17-year journey.

After a three-year break, she’s returning as a guest judge on this Tuesday, October 28th episode, and says the moment will be “special.”

Burke is approaching it differently this time—to help the contestants, not to prove herself.

Why This Return Matters

Burke left the show in 2022, saying at the time that she had fought her farewell and that some friendships were lost along the way.

She later expressed frustration at not being invited to Len Goodman’s tribute and at one point said she was “definitely not” part of the DWTS family anymore.

Yet today, she shows no resentment; she stands by her experiences, saying she has no regrets and has always been grateful to the show.

Her Approach and Goals in Judging

Cheryl says it will be emotional, but she’ll be there in a “different way”—especially for the couples. Her goal is to give constructive criticism while also being encouraging.

She herself has said that she learned so much from the show; her voice, her confidence were shaped by it.

So now, when she sits in the judge’s chair, the focus will be on technical feedback and uplifting the contestants, not just giving harsh scores.

A Mix of Reunion, Nervousness, and Excitement

In three years, Cheryl hasn’t spoken to any of the pros or judges—just a few texts with Emma Slater—so this episode will also be a big reunion.

She says she wants to be excited, not nervous, because saying “nervous” will only increase anxiety.

DWTS changed her life; 26 seasons of experience shaped her, and now she will impart that gratitude and learned savoir-faire to the contestants.

Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET, and this week’s episode will be a must-watch for Cheryl and the fans.