“Dancing with the Stars” contestant Elaine Hendrix was absent from the live Halloween episode on Oct. 28, 2025, after she was injured during a rehearsal earlier that morning and taken to a hospital for evaluation. Host Alfonso Ribeiro announced the incident at the top of the show, confirming that Hendrix and her professional partner Alan Bersten could not perform but remain in the competition. The 53-year-old actress, best known for playing Meredith Blake in The Parent Trap (1998), had been set to perform an Argentine Tango to “Bad to the Bone” by 2WEI and Bri Bryant before the mishap forced her withdrawal just hours before airtime.
Rehearsal Accident Before Showtime
Production sources confirmed that Elaine Hendrix sustained her injury during an intense morning rehearsal that included multiple lifts and rapid footwork typical of the Argentine Tango. After losing balance on a transition move, Hendrix reportedly fell awkwardly, prompting on-site medics to respond immediately. She was transported to a nearby Los Angeles hospital as a precaution. ABC did not disclose the specific nature of her injury, but according to on-set witnesses, the actress was alert and in good spirits as she left the studio.
During the Halloween-themed live broadcast, Ribeiro told viewers:
“Elaine and Alan are not able to perform tonight after she was injured in rehearsal this morning. They’re still in the competition, and fans can continue voting for them.”
The announcement marked one of the few times a contestant has been sidelined by injury this season, underscoring the physical demands of DWTS.
Fan Reaction and Cast Support
Moments after the news broke, DWTS fans flooded social media with words of encouragement, using hashtags #GetWellElaine and #TeamElaineAndAlan. Many viewers expressed disappointment that Hendrix missed the beloved Halloween show, one of the most anticipated episodes each season for its creative choreography and elaborate costumes.
Hendrix’s Instagram comments section quickly filled with supportive messages from colleagues and friends, including several former DWTS contestants who praised her work ethic and stage presence. Professional partner Alan Bersten, a show veteran who has danced with stars such as Hannah Brown and Amanda Kloots, reportedly accompanied Hendrix to the hospital and has remained by her side during recovery.
Judge Cheryl Burke, appearing as a special guest for the Halloween episode, addressed the audience with a reflective tone:
“We always remind our dancers to push hard but stay safe. Everyone here is thinking of Elaine tonight.”
Impact on “Dancing with the Stars” Season 33
Elaine Hendrix’s unexpected injury could affect the trajectory of Season 33, where she and Bersten were considered mid-season contenders following strong Week 6 scores. Although she did not perform, show producers confirmed that the couple will not be automatically eliminated and remain eligible for public votes.
The Halloween broadcast continued as planned, featuring eerie routines and high-energy performances from remaining contestants. Judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli maintained their trademark enthusiasm while acknowledging the emotional absence felt across the ballroom. Entertainment analysts noted that Hendrix’s potential comeback could generate additional interest in upcoming episodes, as injured contestants who return often draw higher viewer engagement.
Recovery and Possible Return
According to production insiders, Hendrix’s medical team will evaluate her later this week to determine if she can safely resume rehearsals. If cleared, she may return for next week’s performance round. ABC is expected to issue an official health update before the next live show. Until then, fans are urged to continue voting for Team Elaine and Alan through the DWTS website and mobile app to help secure their place in the competition.
For now, the DWTS community is united in wishing Elaine Hendrix a full and speedy recovery as she focuses on rest and rehabilitation.
