Val Chmerkovskiy's joke at 58‑year‑old Inaba sparks suspension

# **Val Chmerkovskiy’s Car Comment About Inaba Triggers Six‑Day Suspension** On a crisp September evening, a light‑hearted dig from one of *Dancing With the Stars*’ top pros sent shockwaves through the studio and beyond.

While chatting with **, 40‑year‑old Val Chmerkovskiy slipped a remark about judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s parking spot that would later earn him a week‑long leave from the show.

The comment, made while discussing criticism of his former partner Jenna Dewan, seemed innocent enough—“I know where Inaba parks her car”—but it revealed a simmering tension that the network was unwilling to ignore.

The controversy erupted on the evening of September 29, when Chmerkovskiy was interviewed about Inaba’s recent feedback on Dewan’s samba routine. Dewan, 45, had openly announced her intention to use Inaba’s guidance to improve future performances.

Chmerkovskiy, seizing the moment, said, “I know where [Inaba] parks her car.” He followed with a comment about potential design changes, a quip that struck a nerve among viewers.

Within hours, the footage of the interview went viral, sparking a flurry of memes and debate over the propriety of a professional’s offhand joke in a high‑profile studio.

Two weeks later, the situation escalated when Chmerkovskiy posted a TikTok video that referenced the infamous 2022 Oscars altercation involving Will Smith and Chris Rock.

The clip was widely criticized as “inappropriate,” prompting the network’s executive team to issue a statement: “Val’s social media post… does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show.” The result was a temporary suspension and a formal apology from the dancer, who admitted he had made a poor decision. ## Background & Context *Dancing With the Stars* has long balanced competitive rigor with the personalities that bring the show to life.

Judge Carrie Ann Inaba, 58, has earned a reputation for candid critiques, while Val Chmerkovskiy, a veteran pro known for his sharp choreography, has navigated a career that includes multiple partnerships, most recently with Jenna Dewan.

The pair’s chemistry was tested during the summer, leading to Inaba’s pointed feedback on their samba performance. This criticism sparked a defensive yet humorous exchange in the studio, culminating in Chmerkovskiy’s parking‑spot joke.

The incident on September 29 was not merely a slip of the tongue; it unfolded during a live interview that was being broadcast to a nationwide audience. The clip was shared instantly across social media platforms, with millions of fans commenting in real time.

The timing—just weeks after the show’s season premiere—meant that the joke could not be dismissed as a harmless off‑camera remark. Instead, it became a flashpoint in a broader conversation about decorum, respect, and the blurred lines between entertainment and personal expression.

In addition to the in‑studio banter, the episode on October 13 featured a tense moment between Inaba and Jenna Johnson, Chmerkovskiy’s wife, over the use of a lift in a performance. Johnson reportedly felt criticized and left backstage visibly upset, further complicating the dynamics within the house.

When Chmerkovskiy later alluded to the situation on TikTok, the narrative moved from an isolated joke to a series of events that the production team deemed unacceptable. ## What People Are Saying The network’s swift response was mirrored by a chorus of reactions from fans, industry insiders, and fellow dancers.

Viewers on Twitter split between defending Chmerkovskiy’s right to joke and condemning the comment as disrespectful to a fellow professional.

Memes proliferated, with some users humorously suggesting that Chmerkovskiy should “park in the judges’ lounge.” Meanwhile, comments from other *DWTS* pros hinted at a growing awareness of the show’s public image, with some expressing concern over the potential fallout for future seasons.

Industry observers highlighted the delicate balance between a show’s comedic moments and its reputation for fostering a collaborative environment.

The network’s statement emphasized that “the well‑being of everyone who works on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ is non‑negotiable,” underscoring a broader cultural shift toward accountability in entertainment settings.

Critics pointed out that a single comment could trigger a domino effect, especially when it involves a judge who holds sway over a contestant’s career trajectory. Social media platforms also served as a barometer for the public’s sentiment.

While some fans expressed disappointment at Chmerkovskiy’s lapse, others lauded his willingness to issue an apology and accept the suspension.

The incident sparked a larger dialogue about the role of personal boundaries on set and the responsibilities of public figures who operate under constant scrutiny. ## What Happens Next The network’s decision to suspend Chmerkovskiy for a week was both a punitive measure and a signal of intent to maintain a respectful studio environment.

During the suspension, Alan Bernstein was announced as his temporary replacement for the upcoming “Dedication Night” show, ensuring that the production schedule would remain intact.

Chmerkovskiy will be watching the episode from home, a move that demonstrates both his respect for the show’s protocols and a desire to regain the trust of his colleagues. Following his apology “I made a poor decision”—Chmerkovskiy expressed a commitment to learning from the experience.

Though the exact terms of his return remain undisclosed, insiders suggest that the network is open to a full reinstatement once the incident has been fully addressed.

In the meantime, the show’s producers are reportedly reviewing protocols around social media engagement, aiming to prevent similar controversies in future seasons. Industry analysts predict that the episode could serve as a catalyst for broader policy changes across talent‑driven reality programming.

While the suspension may temporarily dent Chmerkovskiy’s visibility, it also offers an opportunity for him to demonstrate growth, resilience, and a renewed focus on professional collaboration.

Fans will likely watch closely to see whether the dancer can reclaim his standing among the *DWTS* elite and re‑engage the audience that has long admired his choreography. In the fast‑moving world of televised dance, a single remark can ripple outward, shaping careers and redefining standards.

As *Dancing With the Stars* continues to evolve, the incident underscores the importance of mindful communication, the weight of public perception, and the ever‑present need for accountability in the spotlight.