Emmitt Smith Sees Len Goodman’s Legacy in Modern DWTS Rule Debates

Goodman, who anchored the judging panel from 2005 until his retirement in 2022, was a staunch defender of traditional ballroom technique. Smith, who won season 3 with Cheryl Burke, noted that the current influx of hip-hop and experimental styles likely would have faced stiffer resistance under Goodman’s watch. While he maintains respect for the late judge’s commitment to fundamentals, Smith views the current creative risks as a vital opportunity for contestants to expand their personal range.

This debate over style coincides with a period of heightened internal tension. The show recently suspended professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy following his social media comments regarding Carrie Ann Inaba’s critique of a lift during an October 13 broadcast. While Chmerkovskiy has since apologized, the incident underscored the friction between the show’s rigid rulebook and the evolving expectations of its performers. Smith suggests that despite these growing pains, the program remains a unique space for personal growth, noting that the introduction of theme-based episodes like Dedication Night allows contestants to connect more deeply with their own histories, proving that the show’s value now extends well beyond the judges' score paddles.