'DWTS' Pro Cheryl Burke Misses an Episode after Testing Positive for COVID-19

Two-time mirror ball trophy winner Cheryl Burke had to opt out of the most recent episode of “Dancing With The Stars.” The pro dancer shared her COVID-19 diagnosis hours before the show.

The new season of “Dancing With The Stars” has created a buzz like no other. This season is especially groundbreaking since there are several younger, more groundbreaking contestants on the lineup.

News like Jojo Siwa being the first contestant to dance with the same sex has put the show in the spotlight. Unfortunately, this week, the show is making news for something less celebratory.

“Dancing With The Stars” pro and two-time mirror ball trophy winner Cheryl Burke was not on the latest episode. The reason for her absence is a recent positive test result for coronavirus, as per Burke’s reporting.

Burke took to her Instagram to share the news with fans anticipating her appearance with celebrity partner Cody Rigsby. She held back tears as she explained that she opted to get tested after feeling run down.

Burke, who is fully vaccinated, also explained that she was sharing her positive coronavirus status since she has been so open about everything with fans. She also expressed her concerns for her partner in the clip:

“I feel so bad. I feel so bad for Cody. I feel like I’m letting him down. I just feel like [expletive],”

Fortunately, Rigsby, who is Burke’s partner on the show, did not hold any ill will towards Burke for her COVID-19 diagnosis. Instead, the Peloton instructor offered Burke some support on his Instagram stories.

Rigsby revealed he had recently spoken to his “DWTS” pro partner and she seemed in good spirits, and he encouraged fans to send love and support her way.

Although Rigsby has not shared any news of a positive coronavirus diagnosis, he was also absent from the recent episode. The show host, Tyra Banks, explained he was off the ballroom since he was in close contact with Burke.

Fortunately, judges could evaluate their full performance that was filmed during rehearsals. The pair performed a salsa dance to Camila Cabello’s “Don’t Go Yet” and received a score of 24 out of 40.

Although the couple’s absence does not mean judges will eliminate them, Banks clarified that votes would help keep them around. Hopefully, fans do their part to keep the couple in the show a bit longer than just a week.

Most doctors prescribe at least ten days of quarantine for those who test positive for COVID-19. This means it is likely that Burke will also miss the next episode, which has a highly anticipated Britney Spears theme.