Why Bobby Bones Thinks He “Cheated” on DWTS Before Winning Season 27

Bobby Bones is reflecting on his last waltz.

Almost seven years after winning season 27 of *Dancing With the Stars* in 2018 with his partner Sharna Burgess, the radio host revealed the secret tactic that helped him succeed on the dance floor.

Bobby admitted to bending the rules during a recent appearance on Jason Tartick’s *Trading Secrets* podcast. He explained that contestants were only allowed a limited amount of time – about four hours daily – to practice with their partners. To catch up with the competition, Bobby would record those sessions and then secretly rent a studio to practice on his own, exceeding the allotted time.

Bobby Estell, who is 45 years old, faced criticism for his dancing abilities when he was on the show. He also claimed that producers at *American Idol*, where he was a mentor from 2018 to 2021, encouraged him to participate, even though he initially didn’t want to.

He remembered being told, ‘Do *Dancing With the Stars* to help promote *American Idol*.’ He responded that he’d never danced before, but they weren’t worried. They assured him that no one wins that show without dance experience, and he’d likely be eliminated after a few weeks.

Despite a surprising run, Bobby Bones – who is married to chef Caitlin Parker – lasted 10 weeks on the show and ultimately won the Mirrorball trophy. The win was controversial because he and his partner consistently received average to slightly below-average scores from the judges throughout the season.

Bobby wasn’t upset about their average scores; instead, he saw them as proof of how hard he was working to perfect their performances.

He explained that he always gives his full effort. Regarding the show, he said they didn’t provide any feedback, so all the contestants knew was that they were still in the competition. He felt completely lost and unprepared, like he didn’t belong.

Bobby is now speaking out after responding earlier to criticism from Julianne Hough about his performance on the show. Last August, Julianne, who co-hosts *Dancing with the Stars*, told Andy Cohen she didn’t think he should have won, and Bobby playfully responded soon after.

He posted a video on Instagram saying he has nothing but good things to say about Julianne Hough. He jokingly admitted he was a terrible dancer, even though he tried his best on the show. He said he couldn’t dance then, and still can’t now, but he’s okay with that!

Before DWTS begins a new season Sept. 16, keep reading to meet the celeb cast…