Zara Zoffany, the 32-year-old fiancée of Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro contestant AJ Pritchard, has issued a public apology to DWTS professional dancer Rylee Arnold following a dispute over rehearsal feedback and online backlash.
Zoffany posted a TikTok video on Monday, August 31, expressing regret to the 21-year-old dancer after previously criticizing her on social media. The disagreement began after Arnold made a guest appearance on the semifinal episode of DWTS: The Next Pro, performing alongside Pritchard, 31. During the broadcast, Arnold informed the panel of judges that Pritchard had been overly critical during their practice sessions together.
In the wake of the episode, Zoffany posted a comment online arguing that Pritchard would not have offered critiques if the routine had been executed correctly. She further asserted that Pritchard sustained a head hit during rehearsals with Arnold, resulting in a mild concussion that required medical attention. Zoffany drew comparisons to Pritchard's previous performance with amateur Bailey McKnight to defend his approach.
The remarks drew swift responses from figures tied to the franchise. DWTS pro Ezra Sosa, 25, publicly defended Arnold, who is his best friend, stating that a single dance did not diminish her extensive training and qualifications. DWTS: The Next Pro judge Shirley Ballas also spoke out in defense of Arnold.
Addressing the controversy in her Monday video, Zoffany explained that her initial reaction stemmed from broader frustration with online commentary surrounding Pritchard throughout his time on the show. She cited ongoing public posts questioning his sexuality and their relationship, as well as frustration over what she characterized as a negative "villain edit" from producers.
Defending Pritchard's posture during rehearsals, Zoffany noted that his confidence and knowledge of dance standards drive his desire for perfection. She clarified that she never meant to imply Arnold was unqualified for her role, suggesting that misinterpretation occurred following Sosa's response. Speaking directly to Arnold in the clip, Zoffany offered a sincere apology if her statements caused distress, maintaining that hurt was never her intention while adding that she felt the subsequent backlash against her was unwarranted.
The clarification coincided with the live finale of DWTS: The Next Pro on Monday, where contestant Adele Zaikman secured the victory over runners-up Pritchard and Selena Hamilton. Zaikman is scheduled to join the professional dance cast for Dancing With the Stars season 35 when the flagship series premiers on September 15.
https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/dwts-aj-pritchards-fiancee-addresses-rylee-arnold-drama/
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