Dancing with the Stars Controversy

Fans of “Dancing with the Stars” think that Witney Carson may have taken a jab at finalist Dylan Efron just before clinching the Mirrorball Trophy.

She recently posted a now-deleted reel where she expressed her excitement over her husband, Carson McAllister’s, supportive messages. In one text, McAllister complimented Carson’s performance alongside partner Robert Irwin, stating it was “freaking good.” An observant user on Reddit pointed this out.

In their chat, McAllister, 32, mentioned, “Zac Efron is here,” referencing the anticipated arrival of the “High School Musical” star at the semifinals on November 18 to support his brother.

Carson replied, “I get it! They’re trying to get votes.”

However, she quickly removed the reel after backlash emerged regarding her comments about Dylan and his partner, Daniela Karagacci. One commenter noted that if Dylan genuinely needed votes, having Zac appear more often could have helped, while another highlighted that the actor wasn’t even part of the dedication week dance.

Though some fans speculated that Carson was throwing shade, others defended her, arguing that there might not have been anything negative implied. One fan wrote, “I don’t see why everyone thinks she’s being critical! They probably just wanted Zac to help Dylan get more votes, and I’m sure Witney wanted the same for her own partners.” Another pointed out that critics were overanalyzing the situation.

Representatives for Carson, Karagach, Zac, and Dylan have yet to respond to inquiries.

Throughout the season, it’s not uncommon for dance pairs to strategize for viewer votes. Prince William even made an unexpected appearance in the November 11 episode to wish Irwin luck.

Irwin’s performances have generated buzz as well, notably a shirtless routine that stirred up a potential romance with former contestant Xochitl Gomez.

Dylan previously mentioned in October that she had no issues with Zac “doing his thing” and supporting her every day.

Dylan placed fourth in the finals, while Carson and her partner, Robert Irwin, took home the top prize. When Zac made an appearance in the audience, he was all smiles, sitting with his sister Olivia.

At that finale, the zoologist praised his sister Bindi, acknowledging, “My sister told me best: ‘Thank you for changing my life.'” This marked Carson’s second win after previously taking home the trophy in season 19 with Alfonso Ribeiro.