Inside DWTS Season 35: Val Chmerkovskiy's Shocking Suspension and Week 6 Highlights
Dancing with the Stars Season 35 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, blending high-stakes ballroom routines with unexpected backstage drama. Running from its premiere on September 15, 2026, through its scheduled finale on November 24, 2026, across ABC and Disney+, this season has kept viewers glued to their screens. Between fierce competition on the dance floor and unprecedented disciplinary actions behind the scenes, there is a lot to unpack for dedicated fans.
The Unprecedented Suspension of Val Chmerkovskiy
One of the most talked-about moments of the season occurred ahead of Dedication Night on October 20, 2026, when professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy was suspended for one episode. The disciplinary action followed a social media post that was widely interpreted as referencing judge Carrie Ann Inaba.
Entertainment analysts have viewed this historic suspension as an unprecedented disciplinary move by ABC, effectively establishing strict boundaries for social media commentary directed at the show's judges. Naturally, the decision sent shockwaves through the fandom. Fans on Reddit and various social media platforms expressed sheer disbelief over the sudden benching of a veteran pro. Viewers actively debated whether the penalty was proportionate to the social media post in question, making it one of the most polarizing talking points of Season 35.
With Chmerkovskiy sidelined for the episode, fellow pro dancer Alan Bersten stepped in to partner with celebrity contestant Jenna Dewan, ensuring the performance went forward seamlessly despite the chaotic backdrop.
Week 6 Dedication Night: Leaderboards and Drama
While the backstage controversy grabbed headlines, the competition on the floor remained intense. During Week 6 (Dedication Night), no couples were eliminated, and scores carried over to the following week. Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov delivered a standout performance, topping the leaderboard with an impressive 38 out of 40 points.
However, the competition itself has fueled broader debates among viewers and critics alike. Television critics note that Season 35's diverse casting—which features several contestants possessing substantial prior dance backgrounds—has heightened both competitive rigor and artistic expectations. This has led to polarized opinions among audiences concerning the fairness of matching celebrities with professional dance training against absolute novices.
Looking Ahead at Season 35
As Dancing with the Stars Season 35 marches toward its November 24 conclusion, the tension between backstage governance and on-stage excellence remains high. Whether you are tuning in via ABC or streaming on Disney+, the season continues to deliver unforgettable moments, proving that reality television can throw curveballs both inside and outside the ballroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific guidelines in the DWTS talent contract dictate disciplinary measures for social media conduct toward judges?
While exact contractual clauses remain confidential, network policies typically include strict codes of conduct governing public commentary, professional ethics, and respect toward panel judges and production staff.
Will the suspension impact Val Chmerkovskiy's choreography assignments for the remainder of Season 35?
Official network statements have focused solely on the one-episode benching for Dedication Night, with subsequent participation handled on a week-by-week compliance basis.
What are your thoughts on the shocking twists and incredible performances of DWTS Season 35? Share your views in the comments below, or catch the latest episodes streaming on Disney+!
