Witney Carson Returns to "Dancing With the Stars" While Pregnant, Discusses "The Next Pro" Guest Judge Experience

Witney Carson, a two-time champion of "Dancing With the Stars," has announced she will participate in season 35 of the show despite being pregnant. This revelation comes after a period of public speculation regarding her third pregnancy with husband Carson McAllister. Carson, who also recently appeared as a guest judge on the franchise's spin-off, "The Next Pro," expressed her enthusiasm for continuing her passion for dance while embracing motherhood. Her decision to return was carefully considered, especially given a challenging first trimester, but ultimately driven by her desire to pursue both her professional and personal aspirations.

Carson's involvement in "The Next Pro" saw her offering valuable insights as contestants vied for a spot as a professional dancer on "Dancing With the Stars." She found the judging experience surprisingly enjoyable, emphasizing positive criticism and finding a natural fit in the role, despite her initial apprehension about being on the other side of the competition. Her journey this season, dancing while pregnant, marks a new chapter in the show's history and for her career, as she navigates the physical demands with the support of the production team and her partner, Guillermo Rodriguez, highlighting her resilience and dedication.

Balancing Pregnancy and Professional Dance on "Dancing With the Stars"

Witney Carson's decision to compete in season 35 of "Dancing With the Stars" while pregnant has generated significant buzz, marking a unique moment in the show's history. After overcoming a difficult first trimester, Carson thoughtfully decided to return to the dance floor, balancing her professional commitments with her personal journey into motherhood. She highlighted the immense support from her husband and the show's casting director, Deena Katz, which was crucial in her choice. Carson views this experience as an opportunity to demonstrate the strength and capabilities of women, aiming to inspire others by gracefully managing both her career and pregnancy. Her upcoming partnership with Guillermo Rodriguez is anticipated to be a joyful experience, focusing on the fun aspects of dance rather than the intense pressure of previous seasons, especially given Guillermo's understanding as a father himself. Carson has confirmed her full participation in all dance routines, including group numbers, with the production team ensuring her well-being by offering necessary breaks and support, signifying a thoughtful approach to her unique situation.

The journey of Witney Carson dancing while pregnant is set to be a memorable and potentially inspiring season for "Dancing With the Stars." Entering her second trimester, Carson will be performing in intricate costumes, a new challenge she enthusiastically embraces. She acknowledges the potential for public reaction but stands firm in her decision, viewing it as vital for her family's future and her livelihood. The support from the entire cast has been overwhelming, reinforcing her belief in her choice. Her partner, Guillermo Rodriguez, a fellow parent, is expected to provide understanding and encouragement throughout the season. Carson's involvement in all aspects of the show, including group numbers, underscores her dedication, with careful considerations for her and the baby's health. The production team's commitment to her well-being allows her to continue her routines with confidence, while being mindful of any physical limitations. This season is poised to be a testament to her resilience, aiming to inspire audiences by showcasing the balance between a demanding career and the profound experience of pregnancy.

Guest Judging "The Next Pro" and Future Aspirations

Witney Carson's recent role as a guest judge on "Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro" offered her a new perspective on the dance competition world. Initially hesitant about a judging position, her experience on the spin-off proved to be unexpectedly rewarding. She found joy in providing constructive and positive feedback to aspiring professional dancers, appreciating the opportunity to observe their skills in choreography, adaptability, and their ability to guide novice partners. Carson was particularly impressed by the contestants' dedication and their challenge in teaching fans to dance within a tight timeframe, mirroring the demanding aspects of the main show. This experience solidified her interest in a potential future role as a judge on the flagship "Dancing With the Stars" series, emphasizing her love for the show and her desire to contribute in new capacities. Her involvement also provided a poignant full-circle moment with former "Dancing With the Stars: Juniors" dancer Kamri Peterson, who joined the troupe.

During her guest judging stint on "The Next Pro," Witney Carson evaluated dancers on their ability to teach and adapt, a core skill for any professional on "Dancing With the Stars." The challenge required contestants to instruct fans with no dance experience, putting their pedagogical and interpersonal skills to the test. Carson noted that while all contestants performed commendably, differences in time management and efficient direction led to eliminations. She specifically mentioned Nina, who, despite her talent, struggled slightly with quickly conveying instructions. This experience from the judges' panel deeply resonated with Carson, making her realize her passion for offering guidance and observing the intricate process of dance creation. She also cherished the opportunity to witness Robert Irwin, her former partner, in a hosting role, praising his natural talent. This newfound appreciation for judging has opened the door for Carson to consider a more permanent position on the main "Dancing With the Stars" judging panel in the future, showcasing her evolving career ambitions within the dance community.