Elaine Hendrix is eager to get back on the ballroom floor. After sitting out Dancing With the Stars’ Halloween Night on October 28 due to a rib injury, the Parent Trap star shared a reassuring health update and a clear return timeline—promising fans she’ll be back for the next live show.
In an October 29 Instagram video filmed alongside her pro partner Alan Bersten, the 54-year-old actor offered candid insight into her condition, her recovery plan, and the overwhelming support she’s received from viewers following her unexpected hospitalization.
What Happened On Halloween Night
Hendrix revealed that the setback occurred just hours before she was scheduled to perform. A prior injury flared during show day, leaving her unable to dance on the live broadcast. “I injured my ribs during ‘Defying Gravity’ and today they just seized up,” she said in a video message. “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.”
The timing was especially tough: Hendrix and Bersten had prepared an Argentine tango set to George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ “Bad to the Bone” for the show’s Halloween-themed episode, complete with a Mad Max: Fury Road-inspired look. While she couldn’t perform live, the production aired rehearsal footage, which was evaluated by the judges and supported by fan votes.
Even without stepping onto the floor in real time, the pair earned a total of 32 from judges Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba, and guest judge Cheryl Burke. The score reflected the strength of their rehearsal performance and kept momentum behind a partnership that has been building week over week.
Elaine Hendrix’s Health Update And Return Plan
In her update video the day after Halloween Night, Hendrix struck an optimistic tone—while acknowledging she’s still healing. “I’m doing okay,” she shared. “I am up and about. I’m tender, I am sore, but I am starting pain management today.”
Hendrix added that she would not dance for two days to allow her ribs to settle, but emphasized that the goal is a swift comeback. The star punctuated the update with a promise: “So, we will see you next Tuesday out on the ballroom.”
She also thanked the Dancing With the Stars team for acting quickly and taking care of her when the injury intensified just before showtime. In behind-the-scenes snippets shared with fans, Hendrix highlighted the post-apocalyptic costume concept she and Bersten had prepped for their Argentine tango, including the hair and makeup that paid homage to Mad Max: Fury Road.
“All of your messages. I’m seeing it all,” she told followers, offering gratitude for the outpouring of well-wishes. “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.”
Fan Support And Judges’ Reactions
Bersten echoed the appreciation for viewer support and votes, which kept the duo firmly in the mix despite the last-minute change of plans. “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.”
On the judging panel, Carrie Ann Inaba was notably moved by the circumstances of the night and Hendrix’s determination to return. “I am broken-hearted truly for you, Alan and Elaine,” she said, reflecting on the momentum the couple had been gaining. “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 also praised the passion and presence Hendrix brought to the rehearsal performance that aired. “She was looking hot and sexy, and the chemistry was so real and passionate,” she continued. “She’s so strong, and she’s such a warrior.”
That sentiment echoed what viewers saw in the rehearsal package: a focused, character-driven Argentine tango that matched the intensity of the Halloween theme while showcasing the partnership’s growing connection. With a 32 on the night—awarded by a four-judge panel that included Burke as a special guest—the team sits in a promising position if Hendrix’s recovery stays on track.
What’s Next For Elaine Hendrix On DWTS
Hendrix’s plan is to resume rehearsals after a brief rest, focus on pain management, and return to the ballroom for the next live show on Tuesday. While the ribs require caution, her goal remains unchanged: keep dancing and keep improving.
Her DWTS run has already delivered character-forward performances and steady scores, and the Halloween setback appears to have only intensified fan support. With the judges responding positively to her rehearsal routine, Hendrix and Bersten have a strong foundation to build on once she’s cleared to dance again.
For now, the message from Hendrix is clear: she’s healing, she’s grateful, and she’s ready to get back to work. If her quick-thinking team and enthusiastic fanbase are any indication, her return to the ballroom should be both spirited and closely watched when Dancing With the Stars goes live next week.
