Former Dancing with the Stars professional Lindsay Arnold is speaking out to support the current crop of contestants on season 34. Known for her championship run with Jordan Fisher back in 2017, Arnold said she has “seen it all” when it comes to online negativity and felt compelled to defend the new cast from a wave of mean-spirited comments.

Arnold emphasized that the intense scrutiny on reality TV stars, especially in a high-profile competition like DWTS, can be overwhelming. While she no longer performs on the series, she remains closely connected to the show and its alumni community. “It’s hard enough to get out there and put yourself on live television,” Arnold explained, adding that dismissive online remarks only make the process harder for the celebrities who are stepping outside their comfort zones.

Lindsay Arnold’s Message to Critics

In her comments to TooFab, Arnold reminded viewers that behind the glitter and costumes are people tackling something entirely new. Many contestants are not dancers by trade, and Arnold highlighted the bravery it takes to learn difficult routines under pressure. She urged fans to remember the courage it requires to perform live each week and said the pros work tirelessly to make their partners shine.

“These stars are putting themselves in a very vulnerable position,” Arnold noted. She called on audiences to shift their energy toward encouragement rather than criticism, stressing that constructive support helps performers grow and deliver their best on stage.

@lindsarnold Let’s be better you guys 🫶🏻 if you absolutely HAVE to throw shade come throw it at me I can handle it 😉 #dwts #dwtshottake #spreadlove #bekind #letsbenicepeople ♬ original sound – Lindsay Arnold Cusick

Why Arnold Still Speaks Up

Though she stepped away from performing on Dancing with the Stars to focus on family life, Arnold maintains a strong voice within the fan community. In an interview with Yahoo Entertainment, she shared that she remembers the sting of negative commentary from her time on the show. “I’ve experienced it myself,” she said, explaining that her empathy for current cast members comes from firsthand knowledge.

Her decision to speak out reflects her ongoing passion for the series and for dance itself. Arnold continues to engage with fans through social media and projects beyond the ballroom, but her advocacy underscores how much she values the supportive spirit that the show was built on.

The Bigger Picture for DWTS Season 34

Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars has already sparked plenty of conversation among fans, and Arnold’s defense of the celebrities highlights the broader tension between entertainment and online criticism. While the show thrives on high-energy performances and dramatic eliminations, Arnold’s perspective reminds audiences that kindness matters just as much as competition.

Related: ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 34 Kicks Off with High Energy and a Shocking Exit

As the season progresses, her words may encourage viewers to rethink the way they engage online. For Arnold, the message is clear: respect the effort, celebrate the courage, and support the journey of every contestant. In doing so, fans can keep the spirit of DWTS alive—glitter, grit, and all.

With her heartfelt defense, Lindsay Arnold proves that even off the dance floor, she remains a powerful advocate for the show and its stars.

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