Sharna Burgess spoke to Page Six about “Dancing With the Stars” possibly being delayed due to the writers’ strike in Hollywood – and not being asked to return for Season 32 of the show.
Sharna Burgess may not be competing on Season 32 of “Dancing With the Stars,” but she’s still keeping up with everything that’s going on behind-the-scenes of the dance competition series.
The ballroom dancer exclusively spoke to Page Six on Thursday, just as news was breaking of the show possibly delaying its upcoming premiere amid the ongoing writers’ and actors’ strikes in Hollywood.
While SAG-AFTRA has made it clear that celebrities would not be violating their strike rules by participating in the show, members of the Writers Guild of America have been picketing various “DWTS” rehearsal spots in Los Angeles this week to put pressure on ABC and the cast.
They argue that those choosing to stay on the show – a WGA signatory – would be crossing the picket line to work, as the series employs one WGA writer.
The complicated situation has divided fans on social media, and even led to “Veep” actor Matt Walsh stating that he was stepping down from the show until an agreement is made with the WGA.
“I couldn’t even [tell] you what’s the right decision. All I know is that it must be such a hard position to be in for everyone involved. I could not imagine the pressure and the stress,” Burgess told us.
“I can understand the want and the need for both decisions. The decision to want to move ahead for the 500-plus employees that want to be able to feed their families and have a job, or the need to stand in solidarity with the WGA and SAG to create real change for people. I get both sides and I truly feel for them in this moment.”
The Australian dancer noted that she’s “sending so much love and support” to all those involved, adding that she doesn’t “envy” the convoluted position they’re in.
