Fil-Am Cheryl Burke Returns to 'Dancing With the Stars' Floor

A New Chapter for Cheryl Burke

After a three-year hiatus from the dance floor, Cheryl Burke is making a return to “Dancing With the Stars,” this time in a different role. She has stepped into the spotlight as a guest judge for the show’s Halloween special, marking her first appearance since retiring from professional dancing in 2022.

Cheryl Burke, a well-known Filipino American television personality, is stepping back into familiar territory but with a new perspective. Instead of performing, she is now sitting on the judge’s chair, offering her expertise and insights.

The celebrated “Dancing With the Stars” (DWTS) pro made a comeback to the ballroom as a guest judge for the show’s Halloween episode. This was her first appearance since her retirement, which came after an impressive 26 seasons on the iconic dance competition.

Burke first announced her return through an Instagram post, sharing the news with her fans. “The secret’s out! I’ll be joining Dancing with the Stars next week as a guest judge for Halloween Night,” she shared. Reflecting on her nearly two-decade-long journey with the show, she added, “It’s been 3 years since my final dance and official retirement, and I still remember that night like it was yesterday. To return now, from the other side of the floor, is something I’ll never take for granted.”

She also spoke about how DWTS was more than just a show for her. “It’s been 3 years since my final dance and official retirement, and I still remember that night like it was yesterday. To return now, from the other side of the floor, is something I’ll never take for granted.” She described the show as her home, saying it was where she discovered her voice “long before I ever used it offstage.”

Burke also expressed her excitement to reunite with familiar faces and meet the “new generation of dancers and celebrities bringing their stories to life on that iconic floor.” Her presence on the judging panel brought a sense of nostalgia and excitement to the event.

Joining her on the judging panel were veterans Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and fellow former pro Derek Hough. This combination of experienced judges created a night filled with both nostalgia and spooky flair, capturing the essence of the Halloween special.

Although she appeared calm and radiant behind the judges’ table, Burke’s decision to step away from the competition years ago was not an easy one. It stemmed from the physical and emotional toll of performing. In a 2022 interview with E! News, she shared that “there is wear and tear” from years of dancing but also emphasized that her “heart is telling me to see what else is out there.”

Now 41, Burke continues to evolve beyond the dance floor. She is exploring new passions in podcasting and mental health advocacy, showing that her journey is far from over. Her return to “Dancing With the Stars” as a guest judge is a testament to her enduring connection with the show and the community she helped shape over the years.

Key Highlights of Cheryl Burke's Return

• New Role: Cheryl Burke is returning to “Dancing With the Stars” as a guest judge for the Halloween special, marking her first appearance since retiring in 2022.
• Nostalgic Moment: Her return to the show is a nostalgic moment for fans who have followed her career for over two decades.
• Judging Panel: She joined veteran judges Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Derek Hough, creating a mix of experience and excitement.
• Personal Reflections: Burke reflected on her time on the show, describing it as her home and a place where she found her voice.
• New Ventures: Beyond dance, she is now focusing on podcasting and mental health advocacy, showing her continued growth and exploration.

Conclusion

Cheryl Burke’s return to “Dancing With the Stars” as a guest judge is a significant moment in her career. It highlights her deep connection to the show and her ability to adapt and grow in different roles. As she continues to explore new passions, her journey serves as an inspiration to many. The Halloween special will undoubtedly be a memorable event, celebrating her contributions to the world of dance and entertainment.