Cheryl Burke Hits Back At ‘Sex, Lies, & Spray Tans' Backlash: 'It's My Truth, It's My Opinion'

Cheryl Burke is no stranger to controversy, but she is not letting it stop her from being herself!

The former "Dancing with the Stars" pro is courageous in the face of the criticism she received for her comments on her new podcast, "Sex, Lies, and Spray Tans." The TV personality is making it clear that she is not afraid to speak her mind. 

Not one to run from opposing voices, the model took to her Instagram page to address some "shocking messages" she received regarding her new podcast. She started by saying:

"First off, I deeply apologize to anyone taking offense to any of my comments on my podcast. However, I just want everyone to know my intention is never to be mean." 

The 39-year-old ensured everyone understood she was not backing down with her following words. The dancer emphatically stated that while she was sorry people were hurt, however, she expressed:

"It's my truth, and it's my opinion and I am so sorry if it hurt or affected anyone. My opinions, just so everyone knows, are formed based off of my own personal experience and journey on the show."

Pointing out her honesty, Burke recounted that since joining the show at 21, associates knew she was "just honest" and could never sugarcoat. The "I Can Do That" participant noted that working with iHeartMedia meant she had to assess the show honestly from the beginning to the finale, and she knew that not everyone would agree.

Still, the "Dance Moms" star stated, "Whether people agree with me or not isn't my business." Despite this, she wished "all of the contestants, pro-dancers, cast, crew, hair, makeup, anyone who has been a part of DWTS, this season, the best of luck, and I'm sending everyone so much love and light."

The post that was captioned, "Some thoughts on @sexliesandspraytans …" received support from fans and friends, including fellow dancer Sharna Burgess, who stated:

"Sorry you have to do this mama. Your podcast is amazing and your perspective comes from nearly 2 decades of being in it. You have as much experience on the show as the actual judges. Love you and keep being you. People will adjust and appreciate in time." 

Others expressed their disbelief at the critics, like this user who wrote, "Wow!!! I'm stunned that you even had to come and put this out there. You do you and speak your truth!"

A third follower pointed out that it was Burke's podcast, so she could say what she wanted and "If someone doesn't like it they dont have to listen. Period." Someone who also agreed with the sentiment expressed, "People dont have to listen." 

Last month, the television host revealed that her latest venture, which was the podcast, would feature BTS insights on "DWTS." On the platform, she would also delve into heated debates, romantic flings, and other captivating moments from her extensive tenure on the ballroom stage.

However, Burke emphasized that her aim was not to cause any distress to those involved with the popular show. The "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody" guest star shared in a lengthy statement:

"This is my third podcast. I've been fortunate enough to do it with iHeartMedia and it's been an interesting conversation when we first talked about doing a podcast like this, because there's a fine line of, I obviously don't want to upset anybody on the show, but this has nothing to do with any type of negativity. If anything, this is honoring the show for half my life I've been on." 

She also pointed out the significance of commemorating the show's enduring success and recognized fans' pivotal role in the series. 

As September dawned, the professional dancer wasted no time transitioning by relocating to a new place in style. Wearing a white Adidas cap, a checkered shirt, and a pendant necklace, she said:

"I was a little upset and depressed yesterday. I was thinking to myself, 'what the heck did I just do.' Basically, the movers moved as much as they could — it took them a week."

Before showing off her new abode, Burke shared a personal reflection, saying, "Nothing in life..that I've experienced at least…when [making] big changes never felt comfortable. Never felt safe and never had fear be brought up in my body. But it's not the type of fear where I know it's wrong. This is the type of fear where I know it's right but it's scary." 

Afterward, she gave her fans a glimpse of the winding road ahead and excitedly announced her plan to spend her first night in the new house. As seen in the video, various items were strewn everywhere, indicating that she was still unpacking.

The "DWTS" alum went from showing off the master bedroom to her "cute" backyard, the mirrored cabinets, the spacious guest bathroom, and the well-equipped kitchen.