UPDATE: Elaine Hendrix is set to return to Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) rehearsals this Friday after recovering from a serious rib injury that sent her to the hospital earlier this month. The actress shared her recovery progress on Instagram, confirming she’s feeling better but still in pain.
In a heartfelt video posted on October 29, 2023, Hendrix, 54, reassured fans alongside her partner, Alan Bersten, 31. “Hi, everyone! Doing a check-in to let you know that I’m doing OK,” she stated. “I am up and about. I am tender. I am sore. But I’m starting pain management today.” She emphasized, “I’m not dancing today. I’m not dancing tomorrow. We’ll be back at it Friday, and I’m just getting ready to be in that ballroom next Tuesday.”
Hendrix’s injury occurred during rehearsals for the show’s Halloween Night episode, where she experienced severe rib pain while dancing to Wicked’s “Defying Gravity.” She explained, “My ribs just seized up. I couldn’t move. They brought me to the hospital.” Fortunately, doctors advised her that with a short rest, she could resume her DWTS journey.
Reflecting on missing the live show, she expressed her disappointment but also excitement for her upcoming performance, which will be themed around the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “The hardest part of yesterday was not being able to show you just how incredible our piece could have been,” Hendrix lamented, sharing behind-the-scenes photos of her planned costume.
Despite her absence, Hendrix and Bersten received scores of 8s from the judges based on previous rehearsal footage, thanks to the support from fans who voted, saving them from elimination. “You guys voted, we are going to be safe. We got another dance to do,” Bersten confirmed during a TikTok Live after the episode.
As she prepares for her return, Hendrix thanked her fans for their overwhelming support and love. “All of your messages, I’m seeing it all. I just want you to know that, first and foremost, I’m OK.”
With excitement building for next Tuesday’s episode, fans are eager to see her back on the dance floor. Stay tuned for her return to DWTS and further updates as this story develops.
