ABC and producers of 'Dancing with the Stars' confirmed Wednesday that Val Chmerkovskiy would not return to the current season, converting his earlier suspension into a permanent exit. The announcement followed a tense week of backstage conflict involving judge Carrie Ann Inaba.

Chmerkovskiy, a longtime professional on the show, had been suspended after an incident tied to the season's dedication night. The dispute escalated after Inaba's critiques of his choreography and conduct.

Inaba addressed the situation publicly Wednesday, telling entertainment outlets that she held no personal animosity toward the dancer but supported the production's decision. A Disney Television spokesperson said the show remained committed to a respectful working environment for cast and crew.

The departure reshapes the remaining weeks of competition, leaving Chmerkovskiy's celebrity partner either paired with a replacement professional or eliminated from contention. Fellow pros and former contestants reacted across social media, with several expressing support for Chmerkovskiy and others backing the judges.

The episode marks a rare mid-season rupture for one of ABC's most durable franchises, which has relied on continuity among its veteran professionals to retain loyal viewers across more than three decades on air.