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Jen Affleck smiling at a TV premiere event
Reality TV

Jen Affleck Finally Addresses Julianne Hough’s Viral ‘DWTS’ Postpartum Comment

The ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ star opened up about the ballroom co-host’s controversial on-air remarks.

By Dee AlvarezPublished Updated 2 min read

Jen Affleck is setting the record straight. The *Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* personality has officially broken her silence regarding the viral *Dancing with the Stars* moment where co-host Julianne Hough made controversial comments about her postpartum journey. During the ballroom competition's previous season, Hough found herself in the middle of a massive social media storm. Viewers took issue with the host’s remarks concerning Affleck’s physical recovery and body after giving birth, triggering an immediate outcry from fans who branded the commentary insensitive.

What did Julianne Hough say to Jen Affleck on DWTS?

Jen Affleck smiling at a TV premiere event
Jen Affleck smiling at a TV premiere event

The awkward interaction quickly turned into a trending topic across social media. Fans rushed to defend the reality star, arguing that observations about post-baby physical changes placed unfair expectations on new mothers returning to high-intensity athletic performing. Social media users criticized the *Dancing with the Stars* presenter for focusing heavily on Affleck's body bounce-back timeline during live broadcasts. While public outrage continued to build around the comments, Affleck initially remained focused on her dance routines and her young family, keeping her immediate thoughts private as the narrative played out.

Jen Affleck in a pink striped shirt.
Affleck broke her silence on the backlash host Julianne Hough received for asking her, “How did you feel after, just clearly, giving birth and getting out here on the dance floor?”

How did Jen Affleck react to the DWTS controversy?

Julianne Hough, Jordan Chiles, and other dancers on the stage of Dancing with the Stars.
Affleck (pictured above during the “Dancing With the Stars” Season 34 premiere) said she didn’t think Hough had “any ill intent” by making that comment.

Now, after having time to process the public reaction, Affleck has finally weighed in on the drama. Reports confirm that the television star opened up about the experience, recognizing the overwhelming support she received from mothers and viewers nationwide who felt protective over her journey. Affleck acknowledged that stepping onto a live dance floor shortly after welcoming a child presented extreme mental and physical challenges. While the commentary created an uncomfortable TV moment, she managed to navigate the spotlight while prioritizing her wellbeing above the noise of online discourse. The incident highlights the ongoing conversation around how women in entertainment are discussed following childbirth. With both *Dancing with the Stars* and *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* pulling in huge audiences, Affleck's fresh perspective ensures her voice remains front and center as she moves forward with her reality TV career.

The photos · 6

Jen Affleck smiling at a TV premiere event
Affleck broke her silence on the backlash host Julianne Hough received for asking her, “How did you feel after, just clearly, giving birth and getting out here on the dance floor?”
Affleck (pictured above during the “Dancing With the Stars” Season 34 premiere) said she didn’t think Hough had “any ill intent” by making that comment.
Affleck (pictured above with partner Jan Ravnik during “DWTS”) said Hough’s words were “perceived the wrong way.”
Affleck (pictured above during “Halloween Night” on “DWTS”) was partnered with former Eras Tour dancer Jan Ravnik.
Affleck (pictured above during “Halloween Night” on “Dancing With the Stars”) was only eight weeks postpartum when she made her “DWTS” debut.

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People also ask

What did Julianne Hough say about Jen Affleck?
Julianne Hough faced online criticism after making remarks on Dancing with the Stars about Jen Affleck's postpartum recovery timeline.
What show is Jen Affleck on?
Jen Affleck stars on the popular Hulu reality series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and appeared on Dancing with the Stars.