Beloved Dancing with the Stars alum Cheryl Burke has returned to the ballroom for a special one-night appearance as a guest judge during Season 34’s Halloween Night episode. After three years away from the competition floor, the two-time Mirrorball Trophy winner is back—this time on the other side of the judges’ table. Her emotional comeback brings nostalgia, expertise, and excitement for fans and contestants alike.
Cheryl Burke’s Grand Comeback
After bidding farewell to Dancing with the Stars in 2022, Cheryl Burke’s return has created quite a buzz among fans. Her appearance as a guest judge on the Halloween-themed episode, which aired on October 28, 2025, marks her first time back in the ballroom since stepping away after Season 31.
Burke joins the show’s regular judging panel—Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli—for one of the most anticipated theme nights of the season. Known for her sharp eye for detail and deep understanding of the art of dance, Burke’s insights are expected to bring both heart and honesty to the panel.
Why Cheryl Burke’s Return Matters
Cheryl Burke is not just another dancer—she’s Dancing with the Stars royalty. With two Mirrorball Trophy wins and over 25 celebrity partnerships, she helped shape the show’s legacy.
Her return signifies more than nostalgia—it’s a reunion of passion and purpose. Fans have long admired Burke for her dedication, and her judging debut brings a fresh layer of authenticity to the show. She’s been in the contestants’ shoes, knows the challenges they face, and can empathize with their emotional and physical journeys.
In an interview, Burke shared that stepping back onto the DWTS stage felt “surreal” and “like coming home.” She also expressed excitement about being able to “encourage and inspire the dancers in a different way.”
Inside the Halloween Night Episode
The DWTS Halloween episode is a fan-favorite tradition, known for its eerie themes, spooky costumes, and dramatic choreography. This year’s Halloween Night delivered a perfect blend of creativity and competition, with couples performing haunting routines to classic Halloween hits.
As a guest judge, Cheryl brought her signature mix of constructive critique and compassion. She emphasized the importance of storytelling through dance—encouraging contestants to balance technique with emotional expression.
One of her key comments during the night revolved around authenticity. “It’s not just about perfect steps,” she said. “It’s about feeling the music and becoming the character.”
Cheryl Burke’s Legacy on DWTS
Cheryl Burke first joined Dancing with the Stars in 2006 and quickly made history by winning two consecutive seasons—first with Drew Lachey (Season 2) and then with NFL star Emmitt Smith (Season 3). Her performances became iconic for their passion, precision, and innovative choreography.
Over her 26 seasons, she became one of the longest-running and most respected pros on the show. Burke’s influence extends beyond her Mirrorball victories—she helped mentor countless celebrities, from athletes and actors to musicians and reality stars.
When she announced her departure in 2022, fans were emotional but supportive, knowing that her legacy would continue to impact future dancers. Her return as a judge feels like a full-circle moment—allowing her to guide the next generation while celebrating her remarkable journey.
Cheryl’s Emotional Reflections on Her Return
In her interviews ahead of the Halloween episode, Cheryl admitted that returning to DWTS after three years stirred powerful emotions. “It’s weird not being in rehearsals every day,” she said, “but it’s also freeing to be able to observe from a different angle.”
She also mentioned reconnecting with familiar faces and reminiscing about her years of performing under pressure. “It’s been so heartwarming to see everyone again. This place holds so many memories,” she said.
Burke emphasized that while she isn’t planning to return as a full-time judge or pro, she’s open to making guest appearances in the future. Her focus, for now, is on sharing her expertise and celebrating the magic of dance.
Fans React to Cheryl Burke’s Return
Social media lit up as soon as Cheryl Burke’s return was announced. Fans flooded DWTS’s official accounts with excitement and nostalgia, praising the decision to bring her back for such a special episode.
Many viewers expressed that having Burke on the judging panel brought a sense of balance—someone who truly understands what the contestants endure each week. Her empathetic judging style and genuine enthusiasm made her a standout addition for Halloween Night.
One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Cheryl Burke belongs in the ballroom—whether she’s dancing or judging, her presence just elevates the show.”
What’s Next for Cheryl Burke?
Though Cheryl has no immediate plans to rejoin DWTS full-time, she remains active in the dance community. She’s currently working on personal projects, including workshops, mentorship programs, and her podcast Burke in the Game, where she explores topics like self-growth, mental health, and resilience.
Her Halloween Night guest judge appearance could pave the way for more opportunities within the DWTS universe—perhaps future guest spots, choreography segments, or even mentoring new pros.
Regardless of what comes next, her influence continues to resonate both on and off the dance floor.
Cheryl Burke’s Impact on the DWTS Legacy
Cheryl Burke’s return reminds fans why Dancing with the Stars remains such an enduring show. It’s not just about competition—it’s about growth, connection, and transformation.
As one of the most decorated and respected pros in the show’s history, Burke embodies everything that DWTS stands for: hard work, artistry, and heart. Her Halloween Night appearance serves as both a tribute to her journey and a gift to long-time fans.
Conclusion
Cheryl Burke’s emotional return to Dancing with the Stars for Halloween Night was more than just a guest appearance—it was a celebration of legacy, talent, and love for dance. Her presence reignited memories of the show’s golden years while inspiring new generations of performers.
For millions of fans, Cheryl will always be the heartbeat of the DWTS ballroom. Her ability to merge critique with compassion makes her not only a phenomenal dancer but also an exceptional judge.
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FAQs
Q1: When did Cheryl Burke leave Dancing with the Stars?
A: Cheryl Burke officially left DWTS after Season 31 in 2022.
Q2: Why did Cheryl Burke return to the show in 2025?
A: She returned as a guest judge for the special Halloween Night episode of Season 34, marking her first appearance in three years.
Q3: Has Cheryl Burke ever won Dancing with the Stars?
A: Yes, she has won the Mirrorball Trophy twice—first with Drew Lachey and then with Emmitt Smith.
Q4: Will Cheryl Burke become a permanent judge?
A: As of now, Cheryl has not confirmed any plans to join the panel full-time.
Q5: What is Cheryl Burke doing now?
A: She continues to work as a dancer, choreographer, and podcast host, focusing on personal growth and creative projects outside DWTS.
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