'DWTS': Sharna Burgess Addresses Rumors of Toxicity

Sharna Burgess, the Australian professional dancer who appeared on Dancing With the Stars from Season 16 to Season 30, has responded to claims of a toxic atmosphere surrounding the show. She spoke during a Q&A on her Instagram Stories after a follower asked her about the phrase DWTS toxic.

Burgess, according to People, admitted she had never encountered the term before but assumed it referred to a segment of the show's fanbase rather than the production itself. Its definitely not the show or the people working on it, she said. I dislike seeing those words togetherits really disheartening. But online negativity is just one side of the coin; theres also immense online support and admiration.

She suggested that the online toxicity reflects the yin and yang of a highly popular series like DWTS, which recently celebrated its strongest ratings in nearly ten years with Season 34. Wherever theres a large fan following, there will always be critics, Burgess explained. With the shows renewed popularity, many people are eager to share their opinions online, yet most of those critics would be thrilled to meet the cast in person.

Burgess is not alone in dismissing these rumors. Emma Slater, in a recent House of Maher podcast interview, described the atmosphere on DWTS as collaborative and supportive, emphasizing that the show has become very wholesome. She added, An article recently claimed there was toxic energy in Dancing With the Stars, but that could not be further from reality.

Alan Bersten also weighed in, pointing out the inaccuracy of some media reports. Many of these stories are completely wrong. When Emma was eliminated, an article suggested we were fighting. My mom asked me if that was trueI was like, What?

In reality, Bersten and Slater maintain a professional partnership, not a feud.

Dancing With the Stars, Season 35, ABC & Disney+

Author: Sophia Brooks