Carole Baskin Teases Emotional ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Performance

Big Cat Rescue founder Carole Baskin is telling her story tonight on “DWTS.”

“Extra's” Billy Bush spoke with Baskin today as she headed to rehearsals. When asked about her performance tonight, Carole said, “I'm really hoping I can just get through it because the day starts right now. I'm on my way to the studio…”

Baskin has become a recognizable face since the release of “Tiger King,” but has slammed the series for character assassination. Of tonight's pre-taped package on "Dancing with the Stars," she commented, “The piece that they're airing is talking about the impact this has had on my family and that's what's been the hardest for me, is seeing how difficult this has all been on them.”

Promos for tonight's “Dancing with the Stars” show Carole getting emotional while opening up on how “Tiger King” has affected her. Breaking down in tears, Baskin said in the pre-taped package, “I keep it inside. This is the absolute worst of this.”

When asked if she was surprised by her tearful reaction, Carole told Billy after the promo hit airways, “I was really shocked because I was so good at being the strong one and not breaking down. Even if I have to wait three days to break down over the loss of a cat… I can usually do that 'cause I have to be strong for everyone else. It really shocked me that it came flooding out on the couch.”

Baskin noted that she did not know there was a promo released, saying, “I really wish I knew before it got out there this morning because I didn't know it was out there yet to warn my family because I don't want them to see me break down and be upset.”