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- Feldman’s response: frustration with the media narrative
- What sparked the backlash: Maksim Chmerkovskiy’s remarks
- On-set atmosphere vs. headlines: two different stories
- Jenna Johnson’s role and the double elimination
- Production pressures that complicate partners’ work
- Feldman’s social media reply and attempts to close the gap
- Media outlets and the public conversation
Corey Feldman has pushed back hard against claims that he was a problem on Dancing With the Stars, calling out what he describes as a swirl of backstage gossip and negative press that overshadowed the rehearsal room. The former child star says the on-set reality is very different from the headlines, and he’s made it clear he isn’t thrilled about returning for the Season 34 finale amid the fallout.
Feldman’s response: frustration with the media narrative
Feldman, now in his 50s, told the Daily Mail he found many press stories misleading. He said the cast and crew got along during rehearsals.
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He described the off-camera talk as a toxic cloud of rumors that painted a different picture than the day-to-day experience. Feldman added that the gossip had become louder than the work itself.
What sparked the backlash: Maksim Chmerkovskiy’s remarks
Judge-turned-commentator Maksim Chmerkovskiy suggested earlier in the season that Feldman made things harder for his pro partner, Jenna Johnson.
Chmerkovskiy said, in interviews, that Jenna faced extra challenges this year while working with Feldman. He pointed to choreography struggles and the broader demands of the show as contributing factors.
On-set atmosphere vs. headlines: two different stories
Feldman insists rehearsals were focused and positive. He says dancers work hard and barely have a moment to pause between practice and interviews.
But after press pieces began to circulate, Feldman says he saw stories claiming cast members weren’t speaking or that the show was falling apart — claims he found baffling.
He recounted asking Jenna about the source of the negative stories. According to Feldman, she dismissed one recurring critic as attention-seeking, which left him incredulous.
Timeline of key moments
- September: Chmerkovskiy publicly comments on Jenna’s difficult season.
- Weeks of rehearsals: Feldman says he worked seven days a week for weeks on end.
- Double elimination night: Feldman and Jenna were sent home.
- Feldman’s social reply: He addressed negativity on social media, defending his commitment.
- Finale return: Feldman says he’s not enthusiastic about coming back due to lingering negativity.
Jenna Johnson’s role and the double elimination
Johnson, a popular pro who made an impression last season, was partnered with Feldman for this run. The pair exited during a double elimination night.
Feldman told reporters he felt badly about their early exit and praised Jenna’s talent and professionalism. He emphasized she “deserved better” from the competition outcome and that he enjoyed working with her.
He credited her as one of the show’s standout professionals and said her skill merits lasting recognition.
Production pressures that complicate partners’ work
Chmerkovskiy highlighted the broader realities of the production when explaining his point of view. He noted the show is more than rehearsals.
That includes myriad interviews, media obligations, and the logistical maze that comes with live television. In his view, all of that increases the strain on partners who are still learning choreography.
Feldman’s social media reply and attempts to close the gap
After the public criticism, Feldman used Instagram to respond to fans and to Jenna’s posts. He apologized for any negativity and stood by his efforts on the show.
He said he put in intense work during the weeks leading up to performances. Feldman framed his message as support for Jenna and respect for her family.
Media outlets and the public conversation
The back-and-forth drew coverage from multiple outlets, and Feldman’s appearance on the show was later discussed on Page Six Radio and other programs.
Representatives for Chmerkovskiy, Johnson and the show did not immediately provide comment to Page Six when asked.
