DWTS’ Cheryl Burke ‘wants to become first show mentor’ in promotion from pro dancer after 15 years on hit series

DANCING With the Stars' Cheryl Burke "wants to become the show's first mentor" in a promotion from the pro dancer after spending 15 years on the popular competition series.

The 37-year-old is Peloton cycling director Cody Rigsby's partner on the current season of the ABC series, as the duo is now in the finals.

An insider exclusively told The Sun reveals Cheryl is interested in holding formal talks with executives at the program, including Tyra Banks who also graces the stage as host.

"In an ideal world Cheryl would love to have this job next year, and not be a dancer," the source revealed a friend of the star said.

"Essentially it is her own unique role, which would pay tribute to her time in the show and experience but also add value to the artists."

However, there is a reason that Cheryl is interested in becoming the show's first mentor, as the friend added that the star "hopes this role will also allow her to have a greater voice in the creative process surrounding the series.

"It's no secret to many inside the production that Cheryl has views on what new ideas could appeal to viewers. And speaking honestly fresh ideas could help the show as they battle for audience share."

The insider said: "People forget Cheryl has given so much of her time and life to this show, often pushing back on family commitments.

"We are now at a point where something has to change. The truth is whether the producers and ABC value her enough to keep her on board. The discussions on this could go either way.

"Obviously the executives have already seen fan backlash from letting Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews go. If Cheryl left that may not help their connection to the audiences."

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

Back in July, now-former DWTS host Tom broke the news on Twitter that he would not be back in the ballroom for season 29.

ABC and BBC Studios would later release a joint statement to confirming the news shortly after, which also revealed that his co-host Erin was also leaving.

America's Next Top Model creator Tyra was named host just one day after Tom and Erin were axed.

CHERYL'S HISTORY

As for Cheryl, she made her debut on the dancing competition in 2006, winning her first season alongside Drew Lachey.

This season Cheryl tested positive for Covid-19 and took the week off from the dance competition.

The duo would perform remotely before making their stage return and eventually making it to the finals.

FAMILY LIFE

Cheryl is married to Matthew Lawrence as the couple tied the knot in 2019.

Previously, she opened up about having kids during her appearance on The Tamron Hall show.

She said: "[Dancing with the Stars is] a huge accomplishment and I am grateful for that experience. But I’m not like these other girls who just had babies and can just bounce back.

“I know my body, but I also, more importantly, know my own mental health and if I have this body image issue that I’m dealing with, again, if this [my head] is not okay I can’t perform.”