Brooke Burke, known for her association with Dancing with the Stars, has announced that she will not rejoin the show for its 20th anniversary celebration scheduled for November 11. In a recent conversation on Jennie Garth‘s podcast, I Choose Me, Burke shared her reflections on her journey with the reality competition series.
Looking back on her time in the ballroom, Burke expressed her belief that some chapters of life are best left closed. “A redo is hard for me,” she stated, noting that while revisiting certain experiences can be fulfilling, she feels she has already contributed everything she could to the show. “I wrung it out, and I did everything I needed to do on that show,” she affirmed.
Burke’s legacy on the show
Burke’s connection to Dancing with the Stars began in 2007 when she won the coveted mirrorball trophy alongside prominent judge Derek Hough. After her victory, she transitioned to co-hosting, a role she maintained for seven seasons until her departure in 2014. Burke reminisced about the strong relationships she formed during her tenure, describing the experience as one rich in meaningful connections.
Memorable moments and challenges
“It was one of the most watched shows on television,” Burke recalled, acknowledging the excitement and pressure that came with her role. While she enjoyed her time on the show, she also recognized the significant challenges it presented. “I had so much fun, but it was also one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my entire life,” she admitted, highlighting the emotional and physical demands of the competition.
Though she cherishes her memories, Burke believes that returning for a special event would not evoke the same thrill. “It would be hard to go back there with the same level of excitement and appreciation,” she noted, signaling her readiness for new adventures.
Jennie Garth’s shared experiences
During the podcast, Burke was joined by fellow former contestant Jennie Garth, who also received an invitation to the anniversary special. Garth revealed that she chose not to read the invitation, reflecting Burke’s sentiments about closing certain chapters in their careers. “I never say no, never closed doors professionally,” she remarked, but like Burke, she acknowledged that her eight seasons in the ballroom provided ample experience.
Their reflections underscore a significant dimension of their careers, illustrating how their time on the show shaped both their professional journeys and personal lives. As they move on from the series, both women express gratitude for the experiences that facilitated their growth.
The future of Dancing with the Stars
Although Brooke Burke and Jennie Garth will not participate in the anniversary celebration, the show is expected to feature several familiar faces from previous seasons. Reports suggest that six professional dancers will perform together in a special group number, reigniting the excitement that has captivated audiences for two decades.
The legacy of Dancing with the Stars is characterized by its ability to evolve and adapt, continually attracting fans with fresh talent and unforgettable performances. As the 20th anniversary approaches, viewers can anticipate celebrating the remarkable history of the show while reflecting on the journeys of its past champions and contestants.