Witney Carson Faces Criticism for Since-Deleted Text About DWTS Competitor Dylan Efron and His Brother Zac

A Private Message Sparks Major Backlash

November 30, 2025: Dancing With the Stars pro Witney Carson is facing public criticism after a text message she allegedly sent about competitor Dylan Efron — and his brother, actor Zac Efron — circulated online. The message, which Carson quickly deleted, raised eyebrows among fans and viewers, sparking a wave of discussion about professionalism and respect behind the scenes of the popular dance competition.

What the Deleted Message Allegedly Said

According to screenshots shared by fans, Carson’s text appeared to comment on Dylan Efron’s presence on the show and referenced Zac Efron in a way some viewers felt was dismissive or unprofessional. While the exact wording varied across reposts, many fans agreed the tone of the message came across as unnecessary and overly personal — especially from a longtime DWTS pro known for her upbeat, supportive personality.

Fan Reaction and Social Media Firestorm

Once the screenshot hit social media, fans reacted quickly. Some expressed disappointment, saying Carson’s comments felt “mean-spirited” or “out of character,” while others defended her and argued that a single private message shouldn’t overshadow years of positivity on the show.
The incident quickly became a trending topic among DWTS followers, generating thousands of comments and debates across fan pages, Reddit threads, and X.

Carson Deletes the Message and Addresses the Situation

Shortly after the screenshot gained traction, Carson removed the message and released a brief statement acknowledging the controversy. She explained that the text was taken out of context and was not intended to insult Dylan or Zac Efron. Carson added that she has “nothing but respect” for all contestants and expressed regret that the message caused offense.

DWTS Community Responds

Members of the DWTS community, including several past contestants, weighed in with their thoughts. Some noted that the intense environment of the show can lead to private frustrations spilling over, while others emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism — even in behind-the-scenes conversations.
Neither Dylan nor Zac Efron has publicly commented on the situation.

Why the Incident Struck a Nerve

Fans of the show say DWTS thrives on camaraderie, mentorship, and mutual support between professionals and contestants. Because of that culture, many felt the message undermined the spirit of the competition. Others pointed out that private comments going public has become increasingly common in the age of screenshots and digital receipts.

What’s Next for Witney Carson

Despite the backlash, Carson remains a fan favorite and a long-standing part of the DWTS family. Insiders say the incident is unlikely to affect her future on the show, but the moment has served as a reminder of how quickly private messages can escalate into public controversies.
For now, Carson appears focused on moving forward and repairing goodwill with viewers.