Carrie Ann Inaba may be replaced on ‘DWTS’ as her ‘unpredictable behavior’ frustrates fellow judges

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Carrie Ann Inaba, a staple judge on 'Dancing with the Stars' since 2005, is under scrutiny this season after fans voiced frustrations over her scoring choices.

On the Halloween-themed episode of Season 33 of 'DWTS', contestants drew from their personal fears for inspiration, leading to standout performances and even some perfect 10s.

Carrie Ann Inaba not in sync with 'DWTS' cast and crew

Carrie Ann Inaba’s scores, however, diverged from her fellow judges, sparking conversations about her potential future on the show.

Despite the night’s excitement, Inaba held back from awarding a 10 to 'Pretty Little Liars' star Chandler Kinney and her partner, Brandon Armstrong.

Although her colleagues, Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli, each awarded the pair a 10, Inaba gave them a 9, citing the routine’s complexity as justification.

“So it was really strong, but I wouldn’t call it perfection just because it’s such a higher criteria,” she explained. This decision sparked backlash from fans who felt Kinney’s performance deserved the perfect score.

In the light of her recent scores to contestants, rumors are doing the rounds that maybe Inaba’s time at the judges’ table might be ending soon.

“Carrie Ann will always be part of the 'DWTS' family, but as with any family, dynamics shift and things change,” a source told The US Sun.

“She is very much beloved on set, but she doesn’t have her place quite like she used to.”

The source added that while Inaba isn’t necessarily underperforming, she seems less in sync with the cast and crew, occasionally leading to “awkward moments” on set, some even captured by the cameras.

Insider hints at possible 'DWTS' shake-up as judges aren't on 'same page'

The insider also hinted that 'DWTS' might soon consider a replacement for Carrie Ann Inaba.

  “Her time seems to be up, I think it’s only a matter of time before the show pulls the trigger and brings in someone who the audience is excited about.”

Though fellow judges Derek Hough and Bruno Tonioli reportedly have great respect for Inaba, they’ve found her behavior this season challenging to work with, as per Soaps.com.

“Bruno and Derek love Carrie Ann but they haven’t been on the same page as her all season,” the insider shared, adding, "It’s been frustrating for them to try to play off her unpredictable behavior."

One name topping the replacement list is former 'DWTS' pro Mark Ballas, who won the Mirrorball Trophy in 2022 with Charli D’Amelio before announcing his retirement.

Ballas recently served as a guest judge, thrilling fans with his insightful commentary and natural presence.

“Mark was so good as a guest judge that I literally forgot he was a guest. He was so natural and had great comments for each of the couples. I would love to see him return one day as a full time judge!” one fan remarked on Reddit.

“I would so love Mark to be a permanent judge. He just fits in so well, doesn’t feel unnatural, and I think everybody misses him," said another.

While Ballas is a popular choice, the show would likely seek another female judge to keep the panel balanced.

Regardless, fans agree that Ballas’ presence brought a refreshing energy to the judging panel, with many calling for his return in a permanent role.

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