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Elaine Hendrix is back on her feet and on track to return to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom after a rib injury sidelined her during the show’s Halloween Night broadcast on October 28.
In a video shared to Instagram on October 29, the Parent Trap star appeared alongside pro partner Alan Bersten to reassure fans that she’s recovering and gearing up for the next live show. “I’m doing okay,” Hendrix said. “I am up and about. I’m tender, I am sore, but I am starting pain management today.”
The 54-year-old noted she’d be off the dance floor for two more days as she follows doctors’ orders, but emphasized her intention to compete in the upcoming episode. Despite missing the live performance, Hendrix and Bersten still felt the love after viewers rallied behind their rehearsal package — an Argentine tango set to George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ “Bad to the Bone.”
“We just want to say thank you so much for voting for us and showing so much love to Elaine and support,” Bersten added in the clip. “We can feel it, and we appreciate it so much.”
Elaine Hendrix Details Hospitalization And Promises Quick Turnaround
Hendrix revealed that the hospitalization came just hours before she was set to hit the stage. A previous injury flared during show day, leaving her in intense pain that required immediate attention. “I injured my ribs during ‘Defying Gravity’ and today they just seized up,” she explained in an Instagram video. “I couldn’t move. They brought me to the hospital.”
According to Hendrix, her doctor advised a short rest window, with the expectation that she could resume dancing soon after. “The doctor has said that with a day or two of rest, I should be able to continue and that’s exactly what I want to do,” she said. “I want to dance, I want to keep doing this.”
Even without performing live, the pair’s Argentine tango rehearsal footage was judged by the panel, earning a strong total of 32 points from Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and guest judge Cheryl Burke. The score kept Hendrix and Bersten in the competition and reflected the quality of their prep despite the setback.
Judges Praise Hendrix’s Determination And Chemistry
Inaba, visibly moved by the situation, praised Hendrix’s momentum and poise under pressure. “I am broken-hearted truly for you, Alan and Elaine,” she said on the broadcast. “After last week’s success, that momentum would have taken her to another level. Already I was like, ‘Damn, girl,’ watching that rehearsal. That is amazing.”
Inaba continued to highlight the power of Hendrix’s performance energy, even in rehearsal. “She was looking hot and sexy, and the chemistry was so real and passionate,” she added. “She’s so strong, and she’s such a warrior.”
The supportive feedback capped a challenging night that saw Hendrix unable to take the floor but still recognized for the precision and character work in her Argentine tango. For a competition that often rewards resilience as much as technique, the reception underscores Hendrix’s growing confidence and connection with Bersten.
Behind-The-Scenes Glimpses And Gratitude For DWTS Team
Hendrix also gave followers a peek behind the curtain at what might have been on Halloween Night, sharing looks at her Mad Max: Fury Road–inspired costume, complete with fierce glam and post-apocalyptic flair. The styling underscored the night’s theme while nodding to Hendrix’s knack for character-driven performances.
Alongside the costume teases, Hendrix thanked fans for their messages and credited the Dancing With the Stars production for swift, thoughtful care. “All of your messages. I’m seeing it all,” she said. “And I just want you to know first and foremost, I’m okay and second of all, I’m ready to go. Just thank you so much for all the love and support that you’re showing. And thank you to the entire Dancing With the Stars team for taking such good care of me.”
She closed her update with a promise that should reassure viewers hoping for her speedy return: “So, we will see you next Tuesday out on the ballroom.”
What’s Next For Elaine Hendrix And Alan Bersten
With medical guidance suggesting a quick turnaround, Hendrix and Bersten’s focus shifts to refining their routines and maintaining momentum heading into the next live show. Their rehearsal score of 32 puts them in a competitive position, and the outpouring of support — coupled with strong judges’ notes — gives the duo a solid foundation to build upon.
Hendrix’s candid updates and Bersten’s steady encouragement have become part of their weekly rhythm, offering fans a window into both the rigorous prep and the unpredictable challenges of a live dance competition. If her recovery continues on track, the pair’s on-floor chemistry — already noted by the judges — will be the storyline to watch when they return.
For now, Hendrix is balancing rest with pain management and gearing up for what she hopes will be a full-force comeback. Given the judges’ praise and the team’s steady climb, their return to the ballroom could be one of the season’s most anticipated moments.
