Cheryl Burke Reportedly Wants More Of A 'Creative Voice' On 'DWTS' As Competition Series Struggles With Ratings Plunge
After 15 seasons on Dancing With The Stars, Cheryl Burke reportedly wants to carve out a special role for herself on the show.
A source close to the dance pro, 37, told The Sun that after making it to the finals with her partner — cycling director Cody Rigsby — she "wants to become the show's first mentor."
According to the insider, Burke has been looking to hold talks with executives at the show along with host Tyra Banks, to pitch the new idea for next season.
"In an ideal world Cheryl would love to have this job next year, and not be a dancer," the source dished to the outlet. "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."
The insider claimed that the television personality "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," the source close to Burke said of the potential new role. "And speaking honestly fresh ideas could help the show as they battle for audience share."
- Cheryl Burke Announces She's Leaving 'Dancing With The Stars': 'It's Been Very Emotional'
- Tyra Banks May Be Out As 'DWTS' Host, Execs Reportedly Seeking A-List Star To Reinvigorate Series After Ratings Tumble
- Cheryl Burke Admits Leaving 'DWTS' Is As 'Overwhelming' As Her & Matthew Lawrence's Divorce Proceedings
"People forget Cheryl has given so much of her time and life to this show, often pushing back on family commitments," the insider detailed.
The model — who is married to actor Matthew Lawrence — joined the show in its second season and was the first female professional to win the mirrorball trophy.
"We are now at a point where something has to change," the source revealed regarding production on the hit competition show. "The truth is whether the producers and ABC value her enough to keep her on board. The discussions on this could go either way."
As OK! previously reported, executives at the ABC show are reportedly in denial over the low ratings slump during the current season and are "too scared" to make any changes to the show at the current moment.
