Cheryl Burke, a longtime pro dancer from *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS), has been making headlines with her candid takes on the behind-the-scenes romances that often develop on the show.
Having participated in an impressive 26 seasons from 2006 to 2022, Burke knows firsthand how the intense environment can lead to “showmances”—temporary romantic entanglements between pro dancers and celebrity contestants. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, the former *DWTS* star opened up about these relationships, which are the subject of her new podcast, *Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans.*
Burke didn’t hold back, confirming that while hookups between partners do occur, long-term relationships are far less common. “Are there hookups? Yes,” she shared, “Are there full-blown relationships? Rarely. But it does happen, as we’ve seen.” She pointed to successful examples, such as *Shark Tank* star Robert Herjavec, who married his former partner Kym Johnson-Herjavec, and the recent engagement between pro dancer Britt Stewart and her season 31 partner, Daniel Durant.
However, Burke cautioned that many of these whirlwind romances often fizzle out once the cameras stop rolling. Reflecting on her own “showmances,” she explained that maintaining a relationship after the season ends can be difficult.
She admitted to having romantic encounters with three of her former partners but clarified that these were based more on “lust” than love. “It is in that moment,” Burke said. “Then you’re like, ‘Wait a second, how is this person, like, in the real world?’”
The rigors of DWTS rehearsals—practicing seven days a week in close physical proximity—can intensify emotions, leading contestants and their partners to form deep bonds. But as Burke noted, the real test comes when the honeymoon phase fades, and the dancers must work together on more demanding routines. She likened ballroom dancing to “an intimate contact sport,” emphasizing that vulnerability and trust are key to success on the dance floor.
Burke’s observations come at a time when *DWTS* season 33 has already sparked romance rumors, particularly between pro Gleb Savchenko and contestant Brooks Nader. However, Burke dismissed the gossip, saying the two had denied the claims. Instead, she expressed support for another potential couple on the show, *Bachelorette* alum Jenn Tran and her partner Sasha Farber, suggesting their connection could be more than just a fleeting fling.
While Burke remains vocal about the romantic dynamics on *DWTS*, she also weighed in on more controversial topics surrounding the show. She addressed the arrest of pro dancer Artem Chigvintsev for domestic violence, calling the situation “unfortunate” and expressing her hopes for his family, especially his young son.
Furthermore, Burke voiced her discomfort with *DWTS* casting convicted felon Anna Delvey, saying the decision dampened the energy of the show’s premiere episode.
Through her podcast *Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans*, Burke promises to give fans an unfiltered look into the glitzy yet challenging world of *DWTS*, discussing not only the highs but also the rough patches that come with competing on one of television’s most iconic dance shows. For fans seeking a deeper dive into the relationships and realities of *DWTS*, Burke’s podcast seems to be the perfect backstage pass.
