Witney Carson Feels Mom Guilt During DWTS Season
“Being real with you for a min — this week’s been a lot,” Witney Carson, 32, told fans in a heartfelt Instagram Story on October 31. The Dancing With the Stars professional dancer opened up about the challenges of balancing her career with motherhood — a moment that quickly drew empathy from fans across the world.
“I’m exhausted, the mom guilt is in full swing, and I’m just trying to keep life balanced best I can,” she shared. “I am beyond grateful and so blessed but some days it’s tough behind the scenes. Just a reminder we’re all doing our best, and that’s enough.”
As the hit dance competition moves closer to its semifinals, Carson’s honesty struck a chord with working mothers everywhere. Her openness proves that even in Hollywood, finding balance is never easy.
Balancing Stardom and Family Life
Carson’s current DWTS partner is Robert Irwin, the 20-year-old son of the late wildlife icon Steve Irwin. Together, they’ve become fan favorites this season, impressing judges and audiences alike with their chemistry and charm.
They’re one of eight couples still competing for the Mirrorball Trophy, alongside:
- Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
- Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
- Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
- Danielle Fishel & Pasha Pashkov
- Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
- Whitney Leavitt & Mark Ballas
- Andy Richter & Emma Slater
The pairs are now rehearsing for the show’s highly anticipated Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night, airing Tuesday, November 4, on ABC and Disney+.
Carson’s recent post highlighted the emotional weight that comes with such a demanding schedule. The professional dancer, wife, and mother of two continues to push through long rehearsals and live performances while managing family life — a struggle many parents can relate to.
Witney and Robert’s Special Connection
Speaking to Us Weekly in September, Carson shared how naturally she bonded with her partner, Robert Irwin.
“I had flashbacks of when he was little, so I just felt, like, immediately connected to him, and I just wanted to pinch his cheeks,” she said. “I just couldn’t stop hugging him. I was like, ‘This is so perfect.’ I couldn’t have wished for a better partner.”
Robert, who was only 2 years old when his father Steve Irwin tragically passed away, has been open about what this experience means to him.
“I was just so stoked,” he said about being paired with Witney. “I feel like this is such a dream come true, such a full-circle moment, 10 years after being in the ballroom with Bindi to now be here with you.”
His sister, Bindi Irwin, famously won Season 21 of DWTS in 2015 with Derek Hough. Robert said he remembers watching her compete as a kid and never imagined he’d one day be on the same stage.
“Honestly, Witney’s just been incredible,” he added. “It’s such a huge learning curve because I’ve never done anything like this. I guess dangerous animals, you got to have footwork, so maybe there’s a little bit of that, but you’ve got your work cut out for you, mate.”
Their partnership has turned into a genuine friendship. “He is an absolute dream partner and very humble,” Carson said, smiling. “I gotta knock him down a little bit sometimes, keep you grounded, critique you a little bit more. But no, he is just as great as you guys see on TV.”
Robert agreed, describing their partnership as “like a brother and sister duo.”
Witney’s Inspiring DWTS Journey
Witney Carson’s story with Dancing With the Stars began in 2013 when she joined the show as part of the dance troupe for Season 16. A year later, she became a professional dancer and quickly made her mark by winning Season 19 with Alfonso Ribeiro.
Over her decade-long career, she has danced alongside stars like Frankie Muniz, Milo Manheim, and Chris Kattan. Her technical skill, warmth, and relatability have made her one of the most respected pros in the DWTS family.
By sharing her emotional struggles, Carson offers a valuable reminder that even the most polished performers have tough days. Her words — “we’re all doing our best, and that’s enough” — have become a mantra for working moms everywhere.
What it means: Her vulnerability helps normalize conversations about burnout, balance, and the hidden pressures of success. It’s not just celebrity news — it’s a reflection of real life behind the spotlight.
Why Fans Are Rooting for Her
Carson’s openness adds authenticity to her public image. In a time when social media often paints a perfect picture, her willingness to reveal the truth about her emotional exhaustion is refreshing and relatable.
As Witney Carson continues to compete for the Mirrorball Trophy, she remains an example of strength, grace, and honesty — both on and off the dance floor. Fans can’t wait to see her next performance, knowing that behind every sparkle and smile lies a woman giving her all.
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