Witney Carson is getting honest about performing on Dancing With the Stars while pregnant following her season 35 elimination.
“Dancing on national television while pregnant was something I was scared to do, but I wanted to try – for myself and for every woman who’s ever questioned what she’s capable of,” she captioned an Instagram post on Thursday, October 15. “I’m so proud of myself for trusting my body and learning to give myself grace along the way.”
The pro dancer continued, “This season I found a strength in myself I didn’t know I had. & being surrounded by a community that celebrates and supports women has made it even more meaningful. Thank you for making me feel so loved through it all. There is something so powerful about women cheering each other on, and I’ve felt that every week. We can do anything.”
Carson, 32, is currently expecting her third son with husband Carson McAllister. She announced her pregnancy in August — weeks before the season 35 cast was revealed.
“Kinda chic to compete on national TV 5 months pregnant,” she noted in her Instagram video on Thursday, sharing a glimpse of herself at an ultrasound appointment.
Carson was paired with Guillermo Rodriguez this season, and while the duo frequently found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboard, they stole the hearts of viewers at home. The twosome were ultimately eliminated from the competition on Tuesday, October 13, after their Super Bowl Night performance.
“I’m so proud to have been partnered with @iamguillermo 🤍,” she wrote via her Instagram Story on Thursday. “You made everything more fun, made the hard days easier, and gave it everything you had! You were such a bright light — someone we all looked forward to watching on Tuesday nights.”
Carson added, “The world is a little brighter because of you. Keep shining bright like a diamond. 💎✨.”
Throughout the season, Carson praised her partner for his support during her pregnancy — but she didn’t pull back from challenging tricks. The pair’s Super Bowl Night salsa featured an impressive stunt with Carson being held up in the air in a split with her bare belly on display.
Fellow season 35 star Jenna Dewan shared a clip of the moment via her Instagram Story, celebrating Carson’s major moves.
“@witneycarson you already know how much I love you as a person and your insane star quality talent…and you did this all pregnant..!! Unbelievable 🥹❤️🙌🏼,” Dewan, 45, gushed.
Carson thanked the actress for her sweet message, but she also acknowledged she’s ready for a break. “I’m gonna go rest now 😅,” she quipped in a social media upload.
Dancing With the Stars airs on ABC and Disney+ Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.
