Elaine Hendrix is on the mend and planning a swift return to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom after a rib injury sidelined her on Halloween Night. The Parent Trap star missed the October 28 live show, but she took to Instagram the following day to reassure viewers that she’s recovering — and determined to dance again next week.
Hendrix Says She’s “Okay” After Hospital Visit
In an October 29 Instagram video filmed alongside her pro partner Alan Bersten, Hendrix offered a clear, calm status report. “I’m doing okay,” she said. “I am up and about. I’m tender, I am sore, but I am starting pain management today.”
The 54-year-old confirmed she won’t resume rehearsals for two more days, but emphasized her goal is to be back by the next live show. “So, we will see you next Tuesday out on the ballroom,” she added, buoyed by fan support and the production’s care.
Hendrix also explained that the last-minute hospitalization happened just hours before she was set to perform, when a previous injury suddenly flared. “I injured my ribs during ‘Defying Gravity’ and today they just seized up,” she shared in a separate Instagram video. “I couldn’t move. They brought me to the hospital. 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. I want to dance, I want to keep doing this.”
Argentine Tango Judged From Rehearsal Footage
Even though Hendrix couldn’t take the floor live, her Argentine tango with Bersten — set to George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ “Bad to the Bone” — was still evaluated based on rehearsal footage. The pair earned a total of 32 points from judges Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and guest judge Cheryl Burke, a strong showing that reflected the level of performance the duo had been building toward.
Alan Bersten took a moment on Instagram to thank viewers who rallied to vote for the team despite Hendrix’s absence. “We just want to say thank you so much for voting for us and showing so much love to Elaine and support,” he said. “We can feel it, and we appreciate it so much.”
Inaba, visibly moved during the broadcast, praised Hendrix’s resilience and the power of her rehearsal performance. “I am broken-hearted truly for you, Alan and Elaine,” she said. “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.” She added that Hendrix was “looking hot and sexy, and the chemistry was so real and passionate,” calling the actress “so strong” and “such a warrior.”
Behind The Scenes And A Promised Return
While recovering, Hendrix shared a few behind-the-scenes peeks at her Mad Max: Fury Road–inspired Halloween styling, including the costume, hair, and makeup that were prepped before her injury escalated. She also acknowledged the wave of messages that poured in from fans following the live show. “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.”
Hendrix’s update underscores both her commitment to the competition and the production’s precautions when injuries arise. The star’s plan to begin pain management and rest for a short window suggests a targeted approach to ensure she can safely return without compromising her health.
What It Means For The Competition
Momentum matters on Dancing With the Stars, and Hendrix and Bersten had been building a compelling case week to week. That the panel scored their routine from rehearsal footage — and awarded a 32 — speaks to the strength of their partnership and choreography heading into Halloween Night. While missing a live performance can be a significant hurdle, the judges’ response and audience votes kept the duo firmly in the mix.
Hendrix’s clarity about her condition and timeline also helps manage expectations. A two-day pause from dancing, combined with medical guidance, positions her to re-enter rehearsals with focus. On a show that demands both performance quality and endurance, measured recovery can be as decisive as a standout routine.
The Road Ahead For Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
Looking ahead, Hendrix and Bersten will aim to translate their rehearsal momentum into a live comeback. The partnership’s chemistry — highlighted by Inaba’s remarks — has become a signature of their run, and Hendrix’s assurance that she’s “ready to go” sets the stage for a high-energy return.
For fans, this week’s twist served as a reminder that live competition often throws curveballs. Hendrix’s communication, gratitude, and determination have kept viewers engaged — and voting — even from the sidelines. If her recovery continues as planned, Team Elaine and Alan should have the chance to pick up right where they left off, with a ballroom performance that reflects both their technical progress and their resilience.
Until then, Hendrix’s health remains the priority, and her latest update is an encouraging sign. With support from Bersten, the judges, and a vocal fan base, the actress appears poised to rejoin the pack next Tuesday — and to keep dancing.
