Carrie Ann Inaba Wants a New Lift Rule for DWTS

After the great lift drama of 2026, Dancing with the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba proposes a new solution to the problem plaguing pros trying to add a like pizzazz to their routines. In a series of Instagram comments, Inaba responds to critics who feel she unfairly judges contestants for lifts in routines where there is a no lifts rule. “I have not spoke about what happened because of professional courtesy for those who are still competing, and we actually have standards and practices that keep us separated. But I think a part of this ‘headline’ has missed a few important parts of what happened,” she began. “I think it’s important for everyone to know that Jenna and I hugged it out after the Super Bowl show. Jenna was an absolute professional about it, and two women worked through the moment. It came to my attention later that Jenna was deeply hurt. So I also offered to speak with her at anytime. I have also offered to discuss the lift rule and how I enforce it. @sharnaburgess made a great video explaining lifts, assists and which dances allow and don’t allow them.”

Two weeks ago, pro dancer Val Chmerkovskiy made a comment against Inaba, referencing the infamous Will Smith Oscars slap, after Inaba criticized his wife Jenna Johnson’s dance routine that included a lift. He was later suspended for one week. Most fans seemed to agree that Chmerkovskiy’s comment was inappropriate while also believing that Inaba unfairly calls out lifts during routines. She hopes that a new rule would clarify for everyone which dance moves are acceptable for which dance. “In addition, I think in the future, a new lift rule should be created for next season. I think a session of with all the dancers and the judges in a room together to discuss the history of how and why Len Goodman, our original producers and I defined the lift rule and the what the purpose is which is safety and fairness,” she concluded. “The show has evolved tremendously, the way the show is cast has also changed, and so has our audience and the way they consume the show. So, working together to create a better understanding between the dancers and the judges and our audience is important to me, as we move forward and is something I have asked for.”