Just a day before the second week of live shows for Dancing With The Stars, professional dancer Cheryl Burke has tested positive for COVID-19.
The 2x Mirror Ball trophy winner — who is paired with Peloton instructor Cody Rigsby this season — shared the news in a tearful Instagram video that she felt run down and sick while driving to get a PCR test done on Sunday (September 26). Later on in the afternoon, she received the results that she was positive for contracting the virus and her symptoms started to get worse. Burke also stated that she was vaccinated.
“I feel so bad for Cody and it’s so overwhelming because it’s Sunday, and the show’s tomorrow,” Burke said. “I just hope I didn’t spread it. I have to quarantine for 10 days and I’ve been ordered to stay home … I’ll be in bed. I can’t believe this happened.”
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Many of Cheryl’s fans and colleagues have given their outpour of love and support, with current pro, Sharna Burgess writing, “Oh babe I am so so sorry and devastated for you. I can’t believe it 💔” and Alan Bersten commenting, “Praying for you.” Bachelorette star and last season’s winner Kaitlyn Bristowe also sent her regards, saying, “Cheryl I’m so sorry. I wish I could help in anyway.”
During last week’s season premiere, viewers were excited to discover that the cyclist instructor was paired with the veteran who has competed for 23 seasons. The two hit the floor last Monday (September 20) to tango to Dua Lipa‘s hit single “Physical,” earning themselves a score of 24 out of 40.
With only hours left before the dancers and celebrities return to the ballroom for tonight’s live show, no announcements or decisions have been made regarding Cody Rigsby’s future on the reality competition series. However, there is the possibility of a new partner coming in to replace Burke during her leave of absence.
How upset are you by the news? Do you think Cody Rigsby will be getting a new partner for tonight’s episode? Let us know what you think of it by either leaving a reaction or by sending us a tweet at @celebsecrets.
You can catch new episodes of “Dancing with the Stars” every Monday @ 8PM ET/PT on ABC.