Cheryl Burke, the two-time Mirrorball trophy winner and longtime Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) pro, is making headlines again—but this time, it’s not for her moves on the dance floor. Burke has recently opened up about her ongoing battles with sobriety, her high-profile divorce, and her outspoken views on the current state of DWTS judging, offering fans a raw look behind the sequins and spotlights.
Cheryl Burke Gets Real About Sobriety and Divorce
Burke, who has been a fixture on DWTS for 26 seasons, recently sat down with
Good Morning America to discuss her personal journey. She revealed that maintaining her four years of sobriety has been a daily challenge, especially in social situations where alcohol is present. “With the sobriety, it’s hard for me to be around people who may have had a few drinks,” Burke admitted, emphasizing the importance of being intentional and conscious to avoid relapse.
Her decision to divorce actor Matthew Lawrence earlier this year was also rooted in her commitment to sobriety. “I have to put my sobriety first,” she explained, noting that the public often assumes her life is perfect, when in reality, she faces “a lot of ups and downs”.
Burke also shared her diagnosis of social phobia, describing the “crazy anxiety” she experiences in large groups—a surprising revelation for someone known for performing live on national television. She credits DWTS with helping her “come out of my shell” and find her own identity, but she’s clear that her journey is ongoing: “I’m not perfect, and I never will be—I always will be a work in progress”.
Taking Aim at “DWTS” Judges: Burke’s Bold Prescription
Never one to shy away from controversy, Burke recently made waves with her critique of the current DWTS judging panel. Responding to fan questions on the
Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans podcast, she argued that the judges need more expertise in true ballroom dancing to be as strict as the show’s roots demand. “You have to know what you’re talking about, right?” Burke said, suggesting that judges like Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli should take formal adjudicator exams to deepen their understanding of the craft.
Burke’s comments come from a place of authority—she’s spent more time on the DWTS stage than most, and she believes that both pro dancers and judges should continually educate themselves. “Just like the pro dancers have to continue to educate themselves on their craft, I also feel like the judges should do the same,” she insisted, challenging the panel to step up their game for the sake of the show’s authenticity.
What’s Next for Cheryl Burke?
Despite stepping away from competing on DWTS, Burke remains a powerful voice in the dance community and beyond. Her podcast,
Burke in the Game, continues to attract listeners with its honest discussions about mental health, addiction, and personal growth. Burke’s willingness to share her vulnerabilities is resonating with fans who appreciate her candor and resilience.
As she navigates life after divorce and continues her sobriety journey, Burke is determined to use her platform for good. “This was the reason why I was given the platform, so that I can share my story,” she told GMA.
Takeaways: Cheryl Burke’s Message of Progress and Accountability
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Sobriety is a daily battle, even for celebrities, and prioritizing mental health can mean making tough personal decisions.
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Expertise matters—Burke’s call for better-educated DWTS judges highlights the importance of authenticity in entertainment.
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Vulnerability is strength—by sharing her struggles, Burke is helping to destigmatize mental health and addiction issues.
Cheryl Burke’s story is a reminder that even the most dazzling stars are, at their core, works in progress—dancing through life’s challenges one step at a time.
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