Dancing with the Stars contestant Dylan Efron sustained a broken nose during rehearsals on October 25 while practicing a lift with professional partner Daniella Karagach. The injury occurred just days before the show’s Halloween-themed Week 7 episode, raising concerns about his ability to perform. However, Efron confirmed via social media that he will continue competing, reassuring fans with a lighthearted post from the emergency room.
The incident highlights the physical demands of the long-running dance competition, where injuries—though rare—can disrupt momentum for even the most promising contestants. Efron’s determination to return to the ballroom underscores his commitment to the show and the support he’s received from cast and crew.
Rehearsal Mishap and Medical Update
The injury took place during a rehearsal session in Los Angeles, where Efron and Karagach were preparing a Viennese Waltz for the upcoming Halloween Week performance. While attempting a new lift, Efron reportedly lost balance and collided with the floor, resulting in a nasal fracture.
He was immediately taken to a nearby medical facility, where doctors confirmed the break. Efron later posted images from the emergency room, captioned with humor and gratitude. “Not the kind of lift I had in mind,” he joked, adding, “But I’m okay and still dancing.”
The DWTS production team quickly adjusted rehearsal schedules to accommodate Efron’s recovery. According to show insiders, no major changes have been made to the choreography, though minor modifications may be introduced to reduce physical strain.
Cast and Crew Support
Following the accident, Efron received an outpouring of support from fellow contestants and professional dancers. Daniella Karagach, Pasha Pashkov, and Danielle Fishel were among those who stayed with him at the hospital. In a follow-up Instagram post, Efron called their loyalty “heartwarming” and credited them for helping him stay positive.
Messages of encouragement also came from DWTS veterans, including Val Chmerkovskiy and Mark Ballas, who praised Efron’s resilience and team spirit. “Injuries happen, but it’s how you bounce back that defines you,” Ballas wrote.
The show’s producers issued a statement confirming Efron’s continued participation and commending his professionalism. “Dylan has shown incredible dedication and courage. We’re proud to have him on the show and look forward to his performance,” the statement read.
Competitive Momentum and Judges’ Praise
The timing of the injury is particularly challenging for Efron, who had just earned his highest scores of the season during Week 6. His Rumba with Karagach was praised for its emotional depth and technical improvement. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba described the routine as “magical,” noting the pair’s growing chemistry and Efron’s increased confidence on the dance floor.
Their performance placed them in the top half of the leaderboard, boosting their chances of advancing to the next round. The Halloween Week Viennese Waltz is expected to be a pivotal moment in their DWTS journey, and Efron’s decision to compete despite the injury reflects his competitive drive.
Family Support and Public Reaction
Efron’s journey on DWTS has been marked by strong family support. His sister joined him for a special segment earlier in the season, and his brother, actor Zac Efron, has been cheering him on from behind the scenes. Though Zac has not appeared on the show, he has reposted clips and shared messages of encouragement on social media.
Fans responded positively to Dylan’s updates, flooding his posts with well-wishes and admiration. “You’re a warrior,” one fan wrote. “Can’t wait to see you dance again!”
Entertainment outlets have also praised Efron’s transparency and humor in handling the situation. His willingness to share the experience has helped normalize the physical risks of competitive dance and inspired others to persevere through setbacks.
What’s Next for Dylan Efron
Efron and Karagach are scheduled to perform their Viennese Waltz live on Monday, October 27, during DWTS’s Halloween-themed episode. The routine will incorporate seasonal elements and is expected to showcase the pair’s continued growth.
While the choreography may be slightly adjusted to accommodate Efron’s recovery, producers have confirmed that he will appear on stage and perform as planned. The episode airs at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
As the competition intensifies, Efron’s resilience could become a defining storyline for the season. His ability to overcome injury and deliver a strong performance may earn him additional praise from judges and viewers alike.
