A former “DWTS” pro who clinched the Mirror Ball Trophy back in season 13 is pouring out her heart in an emotional message about why the show’s special “20th Birthday Party” anniversary episode left her “so sad.”
“Dancing With the Stars,” which has been crushing its reality TV competition, per Reality Blurred, celebrated 20 years on the air with a special birthday-themed episode on November 11, 2025.
Karina Smirnoff, who departed the show in 2016 following the conclusion of season 22, shared a post on November 17 in which she emotionally reflected on what the show means to her, and the reason the 20th anniversary left her “so sad.” Read on for details.
Karina Smirnoff Says She Was ‘So Sad’ To Miss ‘DWTS’ Anniversary Special
Nearly a week after the “20th Birthday Party” anniversary episode aired, Karina shared a heartfelt message with the fans which read, “I finally caught up on the 20th anniversary of @dancingabc. What an amazing show night! So sad to have missed it. It brought so many memories back. It was an incredible journey for 11 years.”
The 47-year-old went on to to say she’s “so grateful” for having been included, and sent out her congratulations to “everyone who has made this show amazing for all these years.”
Smirnoff kicked off her first year as a pro with season 3, which began airing in 2006. She found victory with her season 13 partner, actor and former U.S. army soldier J.R. Martinez. The pair were awarded the Mirror Ball trophy on November 22, 2011.
The Ukrainian beauty’s fans filled her nostalgic post’s comments with loving words. One wrote, “Karina, you were definitely one of my favorites on the show. You were and still are the best pro dancer I have ever watched. It was a dream come true when I met you and and attended one of your dance seminars. You are a true ICON.”
Another gushed, “You were my favorite dancer. So beautiful and graceful.”
Why Did Karina Smirnoff Leave ‘Dancing With the Stars’?
E! News says Smirnoff starred as a pro for seven straight seasons, from season 3 to season 9, before going on what they call a “mini-break” for season 10. She then performed in nine more consecutive seasons before exiting again in season 20. The report says her given reason for taking another break was: “I’ve decided to focus my energies on some other exciting endeavors including adding author to my resume.”
After returning for two more seasons, Karina left “DWTS” for good after season 22, which concluded in 2016. She explained that she still had love for the show and wouldn’t rule out a return someday, but that she missed dancing with professional partners who matched her ballroom prowess.
