In a candid interview with US Weekly, Cheryl Burke, a beloved figure in the world of dance, revealed her innermost feelings about her departure from the hit show, Dancing With the Stars. Her departure, which occurred during a time of personal turmoil, left her heartbroken, likening it to a painful divorce.
Burke, who recently launched her podcast titled “Sex Lies and Spray Tans,” used this platform to express the depth of her emotions regarding her exit from the show. She stated, “This has been the worst divorce because … though it was my choice, it doesn’t matter. This was a part of my life [for] almost half of my life.” The sincerity in her voice echoed the emotional turmoil she endured during this period.
The podcast, which was launched on September 18, 2023, is not just a creative venture for Burke but also a form of therapy. “I think doing this podcast, though, is helping me grieve in a weird way. I can’t run away from the fact that this has been a part of my life, nor would I want to. I am never going to bite the hand that feeds me still to this day,” she confessed, highlighting the deep connection she still feels with the show.
For Cheryl Burke, Dancing With the Stars was more than just a television show; it was a family. She spoke fondly of the show, saying, “And also, this is my family — regardless if it’s dysfunctional or not — they saw me grow up in front of their eyes. And same thing with the fans, which is why I do believe, I feel like I owe this to them. I’m not here to bad-mouth the show, by any means. I’ll always be Dancing with the Stars‘ No. 1 fan.”
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the show, Burke is committed to shedding light on the hidden aspects of being a part of Dancing With the Stars. She promised to reveal secrets and challenges faced by the dancers that often go unnoticed by the audience. She emphasized that even after the “season is over,” there is much more to discover than what the show presents before the “live performance.”
In November 2022, Cheryl Burke, who was in the midst of a divorce with Matthew Lawrence at the time, made the difficult decision to leave the dance reality show. This exit marked a significant turning point in her career and personal life. Her podcast, “Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans,” provides a unique window into the world of the show, offering insights that fans have never seen before.
On her podcast, Cheryl Burke is determined to delve into what happens when the “camera turns off.” She spoke passionately about the need to discuss the behind-the-scenes details that often get overshadowed by the emotional intensity of the performances. “We don’t get a chance to talk about the nitty-gritty details because everyone gets so emotional. You see us all, blood, sweat, and tears, and then you’re like, but why? No one understands why we love it so much and why we’re all vying for this mirror ball trophy. But really it’s bigger than that and nobody understands,” she explained.
As a professional dancer herself, Cheryl Burke’s perspective adds depth to her commentary. She expressed her eagerness to be open and honest about her experiences and those of others involved in the show. She mentioned, “And so I’m here just to honestly talk about it all and my guests have been so far, so open with their experiences. Though it may seem catty, it’s not by any means. This is just the truth. I’ve always said Dancing With the Stars needs a show called Dancing with the Stars After Dark because we have so much to talk about. Whether it be Disney-appropriate — probably not, which is why it would be After Dark.”
Cheryl Burke’s podcast will serve as a platform for inviting people who have been part of the show, allowing them to share their stories and experiences with fans. The latest episode of “Sex, Lies and Spray Tans” featured actress, dancer, singer, and model Heather Morris, providing an intriguing glimpse into the world of Dancing With the Stars.
Fans of the show have much to look forward to, as the 32nd season of Dancing with the Stars is set to premiere on ABC and Disney Plus on September 26. This season’s judges, Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli, will undoubtedly bring their expertise and flair to the dance floor, making it an exciting event for both fans and participants alike.
Cheryl Burke’s journey, from her emotional departure to the launch of her podcast, is a testament to her resilience and passion for dance. Her willingness to share the untold stories of the show with the world is sure to deepen the connection between the audience and Dancing With the Stars, revealing the beauty and complexity of a beloved reality series.