The bubbly, weepy, always emotional judge on “Dancing with the Stars”, Carrie Ann Inaba, has a great physique, a romantic young fiancee and a not-so predictable “proudest achievement”. She sat down with my friends from FabFitFun for a really … bubbly! … interview. Enjoy some of the highlights!
FFF: You’ve had so many amazing accomplishments, from being a Fly Girl to your singing career to dancing with Madonna to Dancing with the Stars. What are you most proud of?
Carrie: I’ve had an amazing journey, and I still feel like I’m just beginning. Each day is a new opportunity. You may not believe this, but I am most proud of the fact that I went back to school when I was close to 30. I went to UCLA and got my B.A. in the World Arts and Cultures Department. When you’re a dancer, you often have to choose between your career or your education. I had studied choreography at UC Irvine for a few semesters but then moved to LA to dance. I didn’t really have time to go back to school. Soon, though, I realized something was missing in my life and I started taking classes at the community college. I realized that was the missing link! So I decided to get what I needed and go back to school. I graduated with honors and that’s my proudest achievement.
FFF: Your boyfriend proposed to you on Live With Regis and Kelly, which was so exciting! How is the wedding planning going?
Carrie: I’m not really wedding planning yet. I am just enjoying the engagement. It was a huge surprise when he proposed…you think you’re ready for something like that…but when it happened, it was even more magical that I could have imagined. My fiancé, Jesse, is a wonderful man, a kind and loving human being who I respect. And when you’re fortunate enough to spend the rest of your life with that person, it’s bliss. It was a shocker though…happy, but he got me!
FFF: People have called you a cougar! What do you think of the feisty term?
Carrie: I love it! I am a cougar. I find it cute. I love cats, so maybe that’s where the affinity comes from. But it’s kind of funny because I never knew it could be derogatory. One of my friends got really upset that someone called me a cougar. I just giggle and say yes, I’ve been attracted to younger guys most of my life. Maybe it’s because my spirit is still young. Or maybe it’s because I have a nurturing side. Or maybe it’s just because the guys who I’ve had a connection with were mostly younger. It wasn’t planned. It’s about the person and you. It’s hard to explain why you connect with someone on that level. But I respect when I do, and I don’t worry about people passing judgment.
FFF: You seem to have a million things on your plate at once! How do you stay balanced?
Carrie: I lose my balance at times. It’s a process. I try my best. I work really hard and often, if I get off balance, it’s because I’m trying too hard to do too much. I am not afraid to go for things and really try to make things happen. If I don’t work hard, I have often felt that things won’t happen for me. But in my adulthood, I have learned a valuable lesson: Life is also about non-action. Sometimes, you have to allow space, and stop doing…Sometimes, it’s really nice to stop and just be where you are.
Find out how Carrie Ann stays healthy on tour, her guilty pleasures (will you find some from the los angeles jewelry district?) and her beauty regimen by visiting FabFitFun.com
