Cheryl Burke has decided to leave Dancing with the Stars after starring as a pro dancer since Season 2.
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"Cheryl has been on the show for close to 10 years," Dancing with the Stars executive producer Rob Wade told TheWrap. "She has done a great service to the show and I think she feels that it's time for her to move on."
Burke's contract reportedly expired when the series' nineteenth season concluded earlier this week. She was ousted with her celebrity partner Antonio Sabato Jr. on Week 5 in late October.
"We'll only survive as a show if we keep innovating and changing. It's very sad to see cast members leave, but again that gives you the opportunity to grow. So, I'm quite positive about having the opportunity to bring new people in or bring back some of the old faces," Wade said of the ability to highlight other pro dancers.
Burke admitted in September Dancing with the Stars' latest edition would probably be her last so she could try new things.
Wade also revealed judges Len Goodman and Julianne Hough will return for Season 20.
"A judging panel isn't about individuals. It's about chemistry. That has happened remarkably quickly for Julianne in that role," Wade explained of the new judge, who had joined regular judges Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli last season. "I couldn't be happier."
Wade told TheWrap he loved the energy Hough brought to the show.
"I think the ballroom experience and the dance experience and the star quality and vibrancy that Julianne has brought to the panel has been exceptional," he said.
"I also think that the way that Carrie Ann, Bruno and Len have embraced her and have individually been so great this season, as well, has been wonderful. I think it shows their character that they can do that. The three of them have been absolutely wonderful in welcoming Julianne in and I think it has been lovely to watch."
Burke, 30, won Dancing with the Stars' second season in 2006 with Drew Lachey and its third season with Emmitt Smith. She hasn't won a title since, although she's finished in second and third place multiple times. The lowest Burke has ever placed in the competition was 13th in Season 9.
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski
