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Alfonso Ribeiro started off Halloween Night on Dancing with the Stars with a scary piece of information: Elaine Hendrix won’t be competing tonight.
Ribeiro opened Tuesday’s show on ABC by revealing the Freaky Friday actress suffered an injury and is currently in the hospital. Hendrix remains a part of the cast and, as a result, will be judged for the Argentine tango she performed during Tuesday’s rehearsal before she had to be carried off on a stretcher.
In video that aired during the show, a teary Hendrix explained to her partner Alan Bersten that it felt like her “muscles twisted under my rib.” Their tango involved several lifts that had Hendrix above Bersten’s shoulders.
Hendrix posted a video from her hospital bed and explained that she injured her ribs during Wicked night last week and they “seized up” earlier Tuesday.
The ballroom was buzzing with spooky energy on Dancing With The Stars’ Halloween Night, but one familiar face was missing from the lineup. Actress and DWTS contestant Elaine Hendrix was noticeably absent from the show’s themed episode, leaving fans wondering why she didn’t hit the dance floor for one of the most anticipated nights of the season.
Hendrix, best known for her iconic role as Meredith Blake in The Parent Trap, has quickly become a fan favorite on this season of Dancing With The Stars. Her fun personality and sharp wit have made her a standout among the celebrity contestants — which made her absence even more noticeable during the Halloween celebration.
Why Elaine Missed Halloween Night
According to reports and fan speculation online, Hendrix had to sit out the Halloween Night episode due to health concerns. Though neither the show nor Elaine has confirmed specific details, her absence was addressed briefly during the broadcast, with hosts mentioning that she was “recovering” and would hopefully return soon.
Her dance partner also took to social media to share support, writing that Elaine was “doing great” and that the team “can’t wait to be back next week.” Fans flooded the comments with messages of love and encouragement, wishing her a speedy recovery.
Fans React to Her Absence
Fans quickly noticed Hendrix’s missing presence during the show’s group performances and spooky routines. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their disappointment — and concern — over her absence.
“Halloween Night just isn’t the same without Elaine Hendrix! Hope she’s okay!” one fan wrote.
“The Meredith Blake energy was missed tonight,” another commented.
Will Elaine Return Next Week?
While it’s not yet confirmed, all signs point to Elaine making a comeback soon. Dancing With The Stars fans are hopeful she’ll rejoin the competition in the next episode, ready to bring her trademark charisma back to the ballroom.
For now, viewers will have to wait and see if Hendrix’s recovery allows her to return to rehearsals and continue her journey for the mirrorball trophy.
“I couldn’t move,” she explained, while adding that she needs a day or two of rest.
“Halloween is my favorite, and I’m devastated,” she continued. “I was beyond excited to share what we had worked so hard on, although you’ll see a version of it. With your support, I’ll be back in the ballroom next week. I want nothing more.”
Check back for a full recap of tonight’s Dancing with the Stars episode here
