The worldwide hit dancing TV show, "Dancing with the Stars" continues to move forward to its 20th season on the ABC channel. News about who is in and out this season has been revealed and it looks like there is going to be an interesting shift in dynamics on the show.
For instance, 37-year-old Karina Smirnoff will not be returning for this season which shocked the fans. Last Tuesday, on her Instagram account, Smirnoff explained that she is now ready to move onto another chapter of her life after her 16 years with the show.
"Many of you have been asking if I will be back for season 20 of 'DWTS' and I wanted all of my incredible family to hear it directly from me. After a lot of thought and prayer, I've decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume," the star said.
Her statement continues to say, "I have absolutely loved dancing for all of you for all these years and feel blessed to have been given a platform to put my passion for dance, choreography and creativity on display. 'DWTS' has been a huge part of my life for the last 10 years and I will always have a special place in my heart for it."
Unfortunately, Smirnoff is not the only dancer who will not be returning this season. Derek Hough is also sitting this season out as he tries his hand in theater with a show at Radio City Music Hall. Even Cheryl Burke has also decided to give up her stint in the show. She is set to join a new series on NBC.
In an interview with People magazine, Burke expressed how difficult but essential it was to make this decision. "I never thought I'd be able to walk away. But after a decade of something, it's time for me to move on and try something different, to be challenged, to feel inspired," she said.
So who will be on the show exactly? Well, Julianne Hough, who has secured her seat as a judge last season will be returning. As for the official list, it was published on Us Weekly and the roster features: Mark Ballas, Kym Johnson, Sharna Burgess, Witney Carson, Artem Chigvintsev, Val Chmerkovskiy, Tony Dovolani, Allison Holker, Peta Murgatroyd and Emma Slater.
