Jenna Dewan Addresses Controversy Over 'DWTS' Role: 'I Do Not Know How to Ballroom Dance'

Jenna Dewan, known for her role in the film 'Step Up' and as a former backup dancer for Janet Jackson, has responded to backlash surrounding her participation in Season 35 of 'Dancing With the Stars.' Fans have questioned the fairness of her casting, given her extensive dance background.

Dewan is set to partner with Val Chmerkovskiy, a seasoned ballroom expert. Despite her impressive credentials, Dewan insists that ballroom dancing is an entirely different skill set. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, she stated, "Let’s be clear. It’s two different languages. There’s parts of my dance training that’s helpful, obviously… but it’s a new technique, brand new technique." She expressed that this experience is both daunting and exciting, revealing that her past training makes her more anxious, as ballroom feels “really foreign” to her.

Chmerkovskiy defended Dewan's casting, emphasizing that 'DWTS' transcends mere dancing. He noted, "It’s about the human experience and how much you’re willing to reveal yourself." While he acknowledged Dewan's talent, he highlighted that the real challenge lies in pushing her beyond her established skills to showcase something new.

This season also features a diverse lineup of contestants, including Julia Stiles, Tyler Cameron, and Giada De Laurentiis, among others.

Source: variety.com