Longtime Dancing With the Stars professional Louis van Amstel has shared his perspective on the recent tension surrounding judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s enforcement of lift rules and the subsequent suspension of pro dancer Val Chmerkovskiy.
The Debate Over 'Lift Policing'
Addressing the controversy in a recent Instagram update, the 54-year-old dancer stated, “I’m not being diplomatic here but Carrie Ann was right to call out that lift. That was a lift. Two men assisted Harry [Shum Jr.] off the floor.”
The issue stems from the show's "Super Bowl Night" episode, where Inaba penalized pro Jenna Johnson for using extra performers to execute an illegal lift during a routine with her celebrity partner, Harry. Inaba reiterated the show's stance, noting, “A lift is — I just need to say it — any movement during which one of the dancers has both feet off the floor at the same time with the assistance or support of their partner.”
However, Van Amstel argues that the real problem lies in the inconsistent application of these rules. He pointed out that during the same evening, a lift performed by Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Dewan went unpunished. “Carrie Ann did not call that out. That, to me, is inconsistent,” he noted. “That’s been my issue. I don’t mind the ‘lift police,’ she’s right to do it, but be consistent!”
Addressing Rules and Accountability
Van Amstel suggested that the show's guidelines are currently ambiguous regarding the use of extra dancers. “The rules are not very specific … This was three men lifting a guy. The rule is for a couple in the ballroom dance industry,” he explained. “You cannot do that. Carrie Ann is right to call it out. But, you can also blame the producers for not being clear on the rule when there is more than just a couple on the dance floor.”
To resolve the ambiguity, the veteran dancer proposed a formal update to the rulebook: “You cannot do a lift whether it’s by your partner or any extra dancer in the entire number. Then, I would say that rule is waterproof.”
Val Chmerkovskiy's Suspension
While Jenna Johnson handled the criticism professionally, stating she intends to respect the judges' feedback, her husband, Val Chmerkovskiy, faced severe backlash for his response on social media. Chmerkovskiy posted a comment implying a physical threat toward Inaba, referencing the 2022 Oscars incident involving Will Smith.
As a result, a BBC Studios spokesperson issued a statement: “The well-being of everyone who works on Dancing with the Stars is non-negotiable. Val’s social media post was inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show. As a result, he will not participate in next week’s show.”
In light of the suspension, it has been confirmed that Alan Bersten will step in to partner with Jenna Dewan for the upcoming Viennese waltz performance.