DWTS: Britt Stewart Responds to Rumors She’s Ready to Quit After Early Eliminations

Early exit and fan reaction

Stewart and Taylor Hanson left season 35 after three weeks, prompting an angry response from some fans. During her seven seasons as a pro, Stewart has reached the finals, but in each of the past three seasons she has been eliminated by week three.

A tabloid report attributed to an unnamed insider said Stewart was ready to quit. Asked about claims that she was discussing leaving, Stewart said, “I know I haven’t accomplished all that I could.” She did not directly confirm or deny the rumors.

Stewart said Hanson worked hard and was only beginning to enjoy the competition when they were eliminated. She wished viewers had seen him settle into the experience, which she believed could have made for a beautiful journey.

Processing the elimination

Stewart said she was sad and disappointed when they were sent home, but not angry. She described herself as someone who wears her heart openly and said she let herself work through her feelings before continuing with the show.

She noted that the professionals face similar setbacks and keep returning each season. Stewart said she remains grateful for the opportunity to perform.

Representation and purpose

As the first and only Black female pro, Stewart said she thinks about the example she sets for young Black girls when she feels nervous or disappointed. She wants them to see her succeed and know they can thrive in an environment where they may be the only one.

Stewart said that responsibility does not undermine her confidence in herself or her sense of purpose. She also traced Share the Movement to conversations in 2020 about diversity, equity and inclusion in the professional dance community, during the pandemic and unrest following George Floyd’s killing.

A friendship that became more

Stewart described her relationship with actor Daniel Durant as developing over time. She said there was no initial attraction, but that they connected as people, became a team and then friends; after their elimination, they realized the relationship was more than friendship.

Durant understands the demands of the show and supports Stewart, she said. She sometimes asks him to get up and help her practice a dance move when she is stuck on choreography.