Tyra Banks, the host of ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ is referred to as a ‘diva’ by Brooke Burke.

Brooke Burke, a former Dancing With the Stars champion and host, believes the long-running reality show should focus on the dancers rather than the host.

Burke was candid when asked about the criticism of the show’s current host, Tyra Banks, who took over in 2020.

“It’s tough. It’s a live show. And I know those live tapings are a struggle, you know, behind the scenes,” Burke, who hosted DWTS from 2010 to 2013, said on the Behind the Velvet Rope podcast. “You know, she’s a diva. And everybody knows that she’s a diva. There’s nothing wrong with that. And I’m not, I’m not saying anything bad about her. Be a diva. It’s not the place to be a diva. You know, your pros are the diva. Your winner. Your perfect-10 score dancer who’s never done it. That defines diva in the ballroom. So, you know, I just think it wasn’t embraced.”

After two co-hosts, Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews, were sacked, Banks took over the role. Bergeron, who had been on the set since the outset, later revealed that he had clashed with producers over the inclusion of politicians in the ensemble. He envisioned the event as a respite from the constant barrage of controversial news.

Burke stated that the characters on the show had experienced a lot.

“I think that show requires a lot of compassion and loving kindness, especially as the host, so, you know, I don’t really need to say it,” the TV personality and actress said. “I think it was a tough transition. Change is hard for everyone, you know, they’ve gone through a lot on that show. That’s for sure.”