Evolving Through Public Scrutiny
For Carrie Ann Inaba, a veteran judge on Dancing With the Stars, dealing with vocal feedback from the show's massive fanbase has become part of the job. However, she admits that her perspective has shifted significantly since she first joined the panel in 2005.
“In the beginning, I wasn't prepared for it. As a dancer, you are accustomed to being liked, so transitioning into a role that felt villainous at times was quite a shock,” the 58-year-old shared during a recent discussion regarding her work with Novartis.
Inaba emphasizes that maintaining personal integrity is essential to handle the noise of social media. “Everyone has an opinion on everything, and society feels quite divided right now. I believe in fairness; if I am entitled to express my professional critique, I must also be prepared to accept that others have their own perspectives. That has been my guiding principle from the very first day.”
The Vital Role of the Audience
Rather than viewing fan criticism as a negative, Inaba chooses to celebrate the engagement of the viewers. She highlights that Dancing With the Stars is a collaborative effort where the audience plays a crucial role in deciding the fate of the contestants.
“They are the ones who fuel the momentum of the show,” she noted. “Seeing numbers like 75 million votes in a finale is incredible. I could never be upset about their opinions; I am just grateful that they care enough to have one.”
Refining Her Approach as a Judge
Following the passing of former judge Len Goodman, Inaba felt a responsibility to step up and ensure the contestants received the best possible guidance. She views her role not as a pursuit of popularity, but as a commitment to the dancers' success.
“I am there to provide information that helps the person in front of me achieve their goals,” Inaba explained. “Sometimes I may not express my thoughts in the most polished manner, but I think it is challenging for viewers to understand how difficult it is to deliver a concise critique in just 15 seconds.”
Advocating for Sjögren’s Disease Awareness
Beyond the judges' table, Inaba has been quietly facing a personal battle with Sjögren’s disease, a chronic condition where the body’s immune system attacks its own moisture-producing glands. Managing this health challenge while working in the high-pressure environment of television has been a unique struggle.
“It is particularly difficult because the disease is invisible from the outside,” she noted. “In the TV industry, I have a dedicated team that helps me look camera-ready, which can mask how I am truly feeling.”
After missing an episode last season due to her health, Inaba expressed concern about the longevity of her career. Now, she is focusing on advocacy, partnering with the Sjöut for Sjögren’s campaign to raise awareness for those suffering from chronic illnesses. “Many people dealing with similar diagnoses often wonder if they can keep going or remain in their jobs. Having these open conversations is absolutely vital,” she concluded.