Why Did Sharna Leave DWTS? Unpacking Her Ballroom Departure

Annamae Terry DDS 23 Jun 2025

The glitz, the glamour, the intense competition – for nearly two decades, Dancing with the Stars has captivated audiences worldwide. A cornerstone of this beloved show has always been its professional dancers, the unsung heroes who transform celebrities into ballroom sensations. Among them, Sharna Burgess carved out an indelible legacy, known for her fiery red hair, passionate routines, and an unwavering dedication that eventually earned her the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Yet, the question that has lingered in the minds of many fans, sparking countless discussions and online debates, is: why did Sharna leave DWTS?

Her absence from recent seasons has left a noticeable void, prompting speculation and curiosity. This article delves deep into the multifaceted reasons behind Sharna Burgess's decision to step away from the iconic ballroom, exploring the personal and professional factors that shaped her path. We'll examine her journey, the pivotal moments, and the profound shifts in her life that ultimately led to her departure, providing a comprehensive understanding for anyone wondering about the beloved pro's next steps.

Who is Sharna Burgess? A Brief Biography
- Personal Data and Biodata
Sharna Burgess's Journey on Dancing with the Stars
The Initial Shock: Sharna's Absence from Season 31
Unpacking the Reasons: Why Did Sharna Leave DWTS?
The Official Statements and Public Reactions
The Broader Context: DWTS Pro Departures
Sharna's Future Beyond the Ballroom
Reflecting on a Legacy: Sharna's Impact on DWTS

Who is Sharna Burgess? A Brief Biography

Sharna Burgess is an Australian ballroom dancer who rose to international fame as a professional on the American reality competition series Dancing with the Stars. Born on June 21, 1985, in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Sharna began her dance training at a very young age, specializing in ballroom and Latin styles. Her talent was evident early on, leading her to represent Australia in various international competitions. Before joining DWTS, she performed in the London production of the hit dance show "Burn the Floor," touring globally and honing her craft on some of the world's most prestigious stages. Her journey to the DWTS ballroom was a natural progression for someone with her extensive background and undeniable stage presence. She first appeared as a troupe member in Season 13 before being promoted to a professional partner in Season 16. Over her many seasons, Sharna became a fan favorite, known for her innovative choreography, empathetic teaching style, and fierce determination. Her partnerships often showcased incredible growth, culminating in her long-awaited Mirrorball win in Season 27 with radio personality Bobby Bones. Her career on the show was marked by resilience, passion, and an ability to connect deeply with her partners, making her departure all the more poignant for her dedicated fanbase.

Personal Data and Biodata

Full Name	Sharna May Burgess
Date of Birth	June 21, 1985
Place of Birth	Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
Nationality	Australian
Occupation	Professional Dancer, Choreographer, Television Personality
Known For	Professional Dancer on Dancing with the Stars
DWTS Debut (Pro)	Season 16 (2013)
Mirrorball Wins	Season 27 (with Bobby Bones)
Relationship Status	In a relationship with Brian Austin Green
Children	One son, Zane Walker Green

Sharna Burgess's Journey on Dancing with the Stars

Sharna Burgess's tenure on Dancing with the Stars was nothing short of extraordinary. From her debut as a pro in Season 16, where she was partnered with comedian Andy Dick, she consistently brought creativity, passion, and a unique artistic vision to the ballroom. Over the years, she danced with a diverse array of celebrities, including athletes, actors, musicians, and reality TV stars. Each partnership presented its own set of challenges and triumphs, allowing Sharna to showcase her versatility as a choreographer and her patience as a teacher. She became renowned for her ability to draw out the best in her partners, often guiding those with little to no dance experience to impressive levels of performance. Memorable partnerships include her runs with James Hinchcliffe, Nick Carter, and Noah Galloway, all of whom reached the finals under her guidance. Her emotional connection with her partners and her genuine desire for their success resonated deeply with viewers. Despite consistently strong performances and multiple finals appearances, the Mirrorball Trophy eluded her for many seasons, leading to a narrative of "always the bridesmaid, never the bride." This only made her eventual win in Season 27 with Bobby Bones even more significant, a testament to her perseverance and dedication. That victory was a culmination of years of hard work, proving her undeniable expertise and authority in the competitive dance world. Her journey was a masterclass in resilience, and it made the question of why did Sharna leave DWTS even more pressing for fans who had followed her for so long.

The Initial Shock: Sharna's Absence from Season 31

When the cast of professional dancers for Dancing with the Stars Season 31 was announced, a collective gasp could almost be heard across the fanbase: Sharna Burgess's name was notably absent. For a pro who had been a staple for so many years, and fresh off a recent season where she competed with her real-life partner Brian Austin Green, her non-inclusion raised immediate questions. "Why is Sharna not on DWTS?" became a trending query, reflecting the surprise and concern of viewers. It's a very good question, indeed, especially considering her popularity and recent win. The public's immediate reaction was a mix of confusion, disappointment, and rampant speculation. Many wondered if it was a mutual decision, a network choice, or something more personal. As to why she wouldn't be returning, fans pondered various scenarios, from injuries to contractual disputes. It's a common human tendency to seek immediate answers when something familiar changes. Why is it that children require so much attention? Or, in this context, why is it that a beloved figure suddenly steps away from the spotlight? The initial silence from official channels only fueled the curiosity, making the eventual explanations all the more anticipated. People seemed to ask most often about words that start with the letters 'h' and 'u' – perhaps "how" and "unforeseen" circumstances were at the forefront of their minds when considering her absence.

Unpacking the Reasons: Why Did Sharna Leave DWTS?

The decision for a professional dancer to step away from a show as prominent as Dancing with the Stars is rarely simple. It's often a confluence of personal circumstances, professional aspirations, and the demanding nature of the show itself. For Sharna Burgess, her departure from Season 31, and subsequent seasons, appears to be a thoughtful and deliberate choice, primarily driven by significant life changes. While there wasn't a single dramatic event, her explanations, given in various interviews and social media posts, paint a clear picture of her priorities shifting. This is the core of understanding why did Sharna leave DWTS.

The Demands of Motherhood and Family Life

Perhaps the most significant factor in Sharna's decision was the arrival of her son, Zane Walker Green, in June 2022. Becoming a mother fundamentally altered her perspective and priorities. The rigorous schedule of Dancing with the Stars is notoriously demanding, requiring many hours of rehearsals daily, intense physical exertion, and constant travel for live shows. For a new mother, especially one dedicated to hands-on parenting, this schedule presents an almost insurmountable challenge. Sharna openly spoke about the desire to be present for her newborn, stating that she couldn't imagine leaving Zane for the extended periods that DWTS requires. She explained that the thought of spending an hour away from him, let alone the many hours needed for training, felt impossible. She articulated that the commitment to DWTS is all-consuming, a 24/7 endeavor during its run. Balancing that with the needs of an infant and a blended family (her partner Brian Austin Green has other children) would be incredibly difficult, if not detrimental, to her well-being and her family's stability. You never know how parenthood will change you, which is why her decision, while surprising to some, made perfect sense to those who understood the profound shift that comes with having a child. She needed to prioritize her family, and that meant stepping back from a role that demanded so much of her time and energy. Why is it like that? Because the bond with a newborn is unique, and the early months are crucial for development and bonding.

Prioritizing Mental and Physical Well-being

Beyond motherhood, Sharna also hinted at the importance of her own mental and physical health. The life of a professional dancer is incredibly taxing on the body, with years of high-impact movements, injuries, and constant strain. While Sharna has always been a picture of strength and resilience, even the most seasoned athletes need periods of rest and recovery. The show's schedule offers little respite, pushing pros to their limits week after week. Taking a break allowed her body to heal and recover from years of intense competition. Furthermore, the mental pressure of DWTS – the constant scrutiny, the need to deliver compelling performances, and the emotional investment in her partners – can be immense. Stepping away provided her with an opportunity to focus on her holistic well-being, reduce stress, and simply enjoy a slower pace of life. Why would it be strange to shorten this intense period of her career if it meant gaining peace and health? It wasn't strange at all; it was a necessary act of self-preservation and self-care. This period of rest and recalibration was essential for her long-term health, both physically and mentally.

Creative Freedom and New Ventures

While DWTS offers a fantastic platform, it also operates within a specific format and set of creative constraints. Professional dancers are bound by the show's themes, music choices, and the capabilities of their celebrity partners. For a creative individual like Sharna, there might have been a growing desire to explore new artistic avenues and projects that offered more creative freedom. Her departure allows her to pursue other opportunities, whether in choreography outside of the competitive ballroom, television appearances that are less time-intensive, or even entrepreneurial ventures. She has since been seen engaging in various projects, including family-focused content with Brian Austin Green and exploring different facets of her career. This move enables her to diversify her portfolio and embrace roles that align more closely with her current life stage and evolving interests. She has gone on to explain that she is excited about these new chapters, which offer different kinds of challenges and rewards than the ballroom. This shift in register, from competitive dancer to multifaceted entertainer and mother, is a natural progression for many public figures.

The Official Statements and Public Reactions

Sharna Burgess herself was quite transparent about her decision, primarily communicating through her social media channels, particularly Instagram. In a heartfelt video message posted in August 2022, she confirmed her absence from Season 31, explaining that while she was "not ready to say goodbye to my DWTS family," she felt she needed to prioritize her family and her son. She emphasized that the choice was her own, driven by the desire to be fully present during Zane's infancy. She clarified that she hadn't been "cut" from the show but rather made a conscious decision to step back. The show itself, and ABC/Disney+, did not issue a specific statement regarding Sharna's individual departure, but rather announced the full cast of pros. This is standard procedure for the show. However, the general sentiment from the DWTS community, including fellow pros and fans, was overwhelmingly supportive. While many expressed sadness at her absence, they lauded her for prioritizing her family and well-being. This decision, according to many fans, resonated deeply, as it highlighted the very real challenges that working mothers face in demanding careers. It’s a topic that continues to be discussed and debated, particularly in the entertainment industry, where schedules are often unforgiving.

The Broader Context: DWTS Pro Departures

Sharna Burgess is not the first, nor will she be the last, professional dancer to step away from Dancing with the Stars. Over its long run, the show has seen many beloved pros come and go, often for similar reasons. Dancers like Cheryl Burke, Witney Carson, Lindsay Arnold, and Mark Ballas have all taken breaks or retired from the show to focus on family, pursue other career opportunities, or simply to rest their bodies after years of intense physical demands. This trend underscores the demanding nature of the show. The commitment required is immense, and for dancers who are also building families or looking to expand their careers beyond the ballroom, it often becomes unsustainable in the long term. The show's producers are constantly balancing the need for familiar faces with the natural evolution of their professional cast members' lives. It’s not uncommon to see a professional dancer change their register of work, moving from full-time competition to guest appearances, choreography, or even judging roles. This natural ebb and flow is part of the DWTS ecosystem, allowing new talent to emerge while honoring the legacies of those who have contributed so much.

Sharna's Future Beyond the Ballroom

Since stepping away from her full-time role on Dancing with the Stars, Sharna Burgess has embraced her new chapter with enthusiasm. Her social media presence frequently showcases her life as a mother, sharing candid moments with Zane and her partner Brian Austin Green. She has become a vocal advocate for maternal mental health and honest parenting, connecting with her audience on a more personal level. Professionally, while she may not be in the competitive ballroom, Sharna remains deeply involved in the dance world. She continues to choreograph, teach workshops, and engage in various media projects that allow her to utilize her expertise without the relentless schedule of DWTS. She has also explored more lifestyle-oriented content, leveraging her platform to discuss topics relevant to her audience, from fitness to family life. Her future looks bright, filled with opportunities that align with her current priorities, proving that there is a vibrant career for professional dancers beyond the confines of a single television show.

Reflecting on a Legacy: Sharna's Impact on DWTS

Sharna Burgess's contributions to Dancing with the Stars are undeniable. She brought a unique blend of technical prowess, emotional depth, and genuine warmth to every partnership. Her journey from troupe member to Mirrorball champion is a testament to her perseverance and talent, inspiring countless aspiring dancers and fans alike. She consistently pushed the boundaries of choreography, creating memorable routines that showcased both her artistry and her partners' potential. Her legacy on the show is not just about the trophies or the perfect scores; it's about the connections she forged, the growth she facilitated in her partners, and the authenticity she brought to the screen. She demonstrated that empathy and hard work can lead to extraordinary results, both on and off the dance floor. While fans will undoubtedly miss her presence in the ballroom, her decision to prioritize her family and well-being stands as another powerful example of her strength and self-awareness. Her impact will continue to resonate, reminding us of the passion and dedication that make Dancing with the Stars such a beloved spectacle.

Conclusion

The question of why did Sharna leave DWTS is ultimately answered by a narrative of profound personal growth and shifting priorities. Her transition from a full-time professional dancer on one of television's most demanding shows to a dedicated mother and individual prioritizing her well-being is a testament to her strength and evolving life path. It wasn't a sudden, dramatic exit, but a thoughtful decision rooted in the desire to embrace motherhood fully and explore new ventures that offer more balance and creative freedom. Sharna Burgess's journey on Dancing with the Stars was impactful, leaving an indelible mark on the show's history and in the hearts of its fans. While her absence is felt, her choice serves as a powerful reminder that even in the brightest spotlight, personal happiness and family often take precedence. Her story continues to unfold, and we look forward to seeing what new chapters she will write. What are your thoughts on Sharna's decision? Share your comments below and let us know what you miss most about her on the show. If you enjoyed this deep dive, consider exploring our other articles on the careers of your favorite DWTS pros!

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