Cheryl Burke: Embracing New Chapters and a Renewed Purpose in 2025 :

Cheryl Burke, the beloved professional dancer known for her extensive tenure on *Dancing With the Stars* (DWTS), is navigating an exciting and transformative period in her life. Having retired from her role as a professional dancer on the show in 2022 after an impressive 26 seasons, Burke has recently made a highly anticipated return to the DWTS ballroom, albeit in a new capacity. This comeback, alongside her ventures into podcasting, mental health advocacy, and a focused personal journey, paints a picture of a woman embracing evolution and self-discovery.

Her journey since stepping away from the dance floor has been one of deliberate self-exploration and growth, moving beyond the intense physical and emotional demands of professional competition. This new era sees Burke championing mental well-being and sharing her experiences, all while maintaining a connection to the show that profoundly shaped her career. The year 2025 marks a significant point in her ongoing narrative, showcasing her versatility and commitment to a life lived with intention.

A Triumphant Return to the Ballroom as Guest Judge :

After a three-year hiatus from the *Dancing With the Stars* main stage, Cheryl Burke delighted fans with her return as a guest judge for the Halloween special on October 28, 2025. This marked her first time back in the ballroom since her emotional departure as a professional dancer in 2022. Burke, who holds the record for the most seasons competed and boasts two Mirrorball trophies, expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the show from a fresh perspective.

Her appearance on the judging panel alongside Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Derek Hough was met with enthusiasm by viewers. Burke shared her excitement about returning to a show that has been her 'second family' for nearly two decades, emphasizing how it shaped her into the woman she is today. She aimed to offer constructive yet encouraging criticism, drawing from her extensive experience in the demanding competition.

While many fans celebrated her comeback, some online discussions arose regarding her transformed appearance. Burke, however, has openly addressed these comments, clarifying that her significant weight loss and physical changes are the result of a clean-eating routine and healthy lifestyle, not cosmetic procedures or weight-loss medications like Ozempic. She emphasized the importance of focusing on internal growth rather than external scrutiny.

Why She Stepped Away: Physical Toll and Personal Evolution :

Cheryl Burke's decision to retire from *Dancing With the Stars* as a pro dancer in 2022 was a multifaceted one, driven by both the physical demands of the show and a profound desire for personal growth and new opportunities. The intense rehearsal schedules and constant performance pressure took a considerable toll on her body over 26 seasons.

Beyond the physical wear and tear, Burke felt a strong pull to explore other avenues and evolve beyond the confines of the ballroom. She articulated a desire to see 'what else is out there' and expand her commitment to mental health advocacy and podcasting. Her departure was not a sudden impulse but rather a reflective step towards self-ownership and reinvention, seeking new challenges and experiences outside of her comfort zone.

Podcasting Ventures: Sharing Truths and Connections :

In her post-DWTS journey, Cheryl Burke quickly delved into the world of podcasting, launching 'Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans' with iHeartPodcasts in September 2023. This weekly podcast provided a platform for Burke to share behind-the-scenes stories, secrets, and candid conversations with former partners, co-stars, and friends from her extensive career.

However, in a somewhat bittersweet announcement in December 2024, Burke decided to pause 'Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans' after nearly 200 episodes, citing a focus on new projects for 2025. While expressing gratitude to her listeners and guests, she hinted at a possible return in the future. Burke also continues to serve as a mentor on the 'I Do, Part 2' podcast, further expanding her voice in the audio landscape.

Her podcasting efforts have been integral to her transition, allowing her to connect with audiences on a deeper, more personal level and discuss topics beyond the glitz and glamour of ballroom dancing. It represents her commitment to storytelling and fostering genuine connections.

A New Chapter in Relationships: Embracing Single Life and Celibacy :

Cheryl Burke has been refreshingly open about her personal life following her divorce from actor Matthew Lawrence, which was finalized in September 2022 after nearly three years of marriage. She has embraced single life and proudly maintained celibacy since her split, making a conscious choice to prioritize healing, personal growth, and self-love.

Burke, who turned 41 in 2025, has shared that being single has allowed her to focus on personal goals and self-discovery, describing it as a 'transformative period.' She has emphasized that this decision is about respecting herself and healing from past relationship traumas, rather than a dismissal of romance.

Despite societal pressures and the occasional skepticism from peers, Burke stands firm in her choice, valuing the independence and profound self-respect she has cultivated. Her honesty about her journey resonates with many, challenging traditional narratives around singlehood and empowering women to define their own paths.

Advocating for Mental Health and Body Positivity :

A significant focus for Cheryl Burke in recent years has been her dedicated advocacy for mental health. She openly discusses her long-standing struggles with body dysmorphia, which originated in her childhood and was exacerbated during her time on *Dancing With the Stars* due to constant scrutiny and a preoccupation with weight.

Burke has actively pushed back against body shaming and speculation about her physical appearance, urging a shift in conversation towards mental well-being and personal growth. She travels with a scale and aims to influence others, particularly young women, to recognize that a person's worth extends far beyond their physical attributes.

Her commitment to promoting mental health is evident through her public discussions and her provision of resources on her own platforms. Burke's transparency about her journey, including her sobriety and the work she has done on herself from the inside out, serves as an inspiration for many navigating similar challenges.

Future Endeavors and ABC First-Look Deal :

Looking ahead, Cheryl Burke is poised for even more exciting developments. In February 2025, she announced a significant first-look deal with ABC, the network behind *Dancing With the Stars*. This strategic partnership will see Burke develop new entertainment projects for the network, including scripted and unscripted series, podcasts, and various special programming.

This deal underscores ABC's confidence in Burke's creative vision and her ability to contribute beyond her dancing prowess. While specific projects are yet to be revealed, this venture offers her a powerful platform to expand her career in new directions. It signifies her transition into a multifaceted entertainment professional, ready to explore new roles both in front of and behind the camera.

Her current estimated net worth for 2025 stands at $4 million, reflecting her brand expansion through various ventures including her podcasts and a clothing brand, in addition to her earnings from DWTS. This financial growth further supports her ability to pursue diverse and impactful projects in the future.