Kim Johnson, one of the professional dancers on Dancing With the Stars has decided to take a break from the show to pursue a career opportunity in Australia. 

Kym Johnson
Kym Johnson at the G'Day USA Black Tie Charity Gala at the JW Marriot Hotel in L.A.

Johnson has been on the US Dancing With the Stars since 2006. An Australian native, she first appeared on the Australian version of the show in 2004. DWTS is now approaching its 17th season. Johnson has been appearing on the show for the past 14 seasons.

On the show, Johnson danced with such stars as talk-show host Jerry Springer; singer Donny Osmond; actor David Hasselhoff; and twice with 'N Sync's Joey Fatone. She has won the competition twice with partners Osmond in 2009 and Hines Ward in 2011.

To the dancers and contestants this year, Johnson said "I wish all the dancers and celebrities in season 17 nothing but love and success, and hope to see you all back on the dance floor for season 18."

Kym Johnson
Kym Johnson outside the DWTS studios in Hollywood.

The 37-year-old, speaking to US Weekly, made a statement, which reads "I will be taking next season off from DWTS USA, so that I may accept an amazing work opportunity back home in Australia." Johnson has decided to take a season off from the show to "accept an amazing work opportunity back home". She did not go into detail about this work opportunity but said she was "excited, nervous and humbled by this chance and look forward to sharing more about it with you soon." 

Season 17 of DWTS will premiere on September 16th of this year. 

Kym Johnson
Kym Johnson at the L.A. premiere of The Words, held at the ArcLight Cinema.