'DWTS' pro Cheryl Burke tests positive for COVID-19 and can't perform in person, but stays in competition

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Just as week two of Dancing With the Stars was getting underway on Monday, host Tyra Banks updated the audience with the news that pro dancer Cheryl Burke has tested positive for COVID-19.

Burke, who is fully vaccinated, was obviously not going to be at Monday’s live show, and Banks explained what that meant for Burke’s partner, Peloton instructor Cody Rigsby.

“She and Cody Rigsby were in close contact,” Banks said. “Although he's also fully vaccinated, out of an abundance of caution, he's not in the ballroom tonight. However, this does not mean they're out of the competition.”

Banks would explain later in the night that while Burke and Rigsby were not going to be performing live, they would still be judged based on a pre-recorded practice session from last week. All things considered, the performance looked fairly polished and their score was a decent 24 out of 40.

During the judging portion, Burke and Rigsby were brought in via video feed, where Banks got an update on how Burke was feeling.

“I'm feeling okay. I'm just grateful that I got vaccinated so I know it could have been way worse,” Burke said. “And I'm proud of Cody. He worked so hard this week. I just hope to be back soon in the ballroom.”

Viewers were clearly missing Burke, with plenty of well wishes being sent her way on social media.

Fans also made it clear with their voting that they want Burke and Rigsby back, as the pair safely made it through to next week.

Dancing With the Stars airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on ABC.

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