Dancing With The Stars showrunner defends Anna Delvey's controversial casting: 'She served her time'

Dancing with the Stars fame Conrad Green is standing by the decision to cast Anna Delvey for the upcoming season 33. Delvey, who made headlines after her appearance was announced on Good Morning America on Sept. 4, will compete for the mirrorball trophy alongside 12 other contestants.
In an interview with Variety, Green explained the show's inclusive casting approach: "We’ve always aimed to feature diverse backgrounds and stories.Anna fascinates many people; her life has been the subject of drama and intrigue." He also pointed out that Delvey, 33, is familiar with the fashion world, making her an appealing contestant.
“Fans will be eager to see her on the dance floor," Green added. Acknowledging Delvey’s criminal past, Green said, "She’s had her issues, but we’ve had contestants with criminal histories before. She served her time and is a valid part of this cast." Delvey, whose real name is Anna Sorokin, became infamous for posing as a wealthy German heiress and defrauding banks, hotels, and individuals. Convicted in 2019 of grand larceny and theft, she was released from prison in 2021 for good behavior. Currently under house arrest in New York, Delvey is fighting deportation after violating her visa terms.