Elaine Hendrix, the versatile actress adored by fans of classic films like The Parent Trap, is demonstrating incredible resilience on Dancing With the Stars. After a terrifying rib injury that required hospitalization and a separate foot issue, she is cleared for a triumphant return to the ballroom, fueled by immense fan support and her own unwavering spirit. Her journey highlights the demanding nature of the competition and the powerful connection she shares with her audience.
The world of Dancing With the Stars is known for its dazzling performances and intense physical demands, but rarely does it see a contestant face such a dramatic setback as Elaine Hendrix. The actress, instantly recognizable to fans of the 1998 hit The Parent Trap, recently experienced a series of injuries that threatened to end her journey on the popular dance competition. However, thanks to her incredible fortitude and the overwhelming support from fans, Hendrix is preparing for a remarkable return to the ballroom.
On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Hendrix, 54, shared a crucial update with her followers, confirming her recovery progress alongside her professional dance partner, Alan Bersten, 31. Despite being “tender” and “sore” after her ordeal, her message was clear: she’s ready to dance again. “I am starting pain management today,” Hendrix announced. “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.” Her determination resonated deeply with fans eager to see her continue.
The Double Whammy: Rib and Foot Injuries
Hendrix’s recent challenges on DWTS began with a foot injury that occurred during bare-feet rehearsals. She revealed that due to her “titanium joint,” she “ripped half the skin” off her right foot, an injury she jokingly described as “ghoulish” for Halloween week. This painful setback was quickly followed by a more severe incident.
During rehearsals for the Halloween episode on Tuesday, October 28, Hendrix suffered a rib injury that ultimately led to her hospitalization. Bersten recounted the moment, explaining that Elaine “froze” and “couldn’t breathe” when “something happened with her rib.” She was carried out of the ballroom on a stretcher and transported by ambulance, a scene that deeply concerned her fans and the entire DWTS team.
The injury, described by Bersten to Extra as affecting the “intercostal muscle in between the ribs,” caused immense pain and made breathing difficult. Despite the severity, doctors cleared her to remain in the competition provided she survived the week’s elimination. This medical green light was a crucial step towards her comeback.
Fan Power and a Triumphant Save
Despite being unable to perform live on Halloween Night, Hendrix and Bersten were judged on their last full rehearsal performance of an Argentine Tango to “Bad to the Bone.” The judges, including guest judge Cheryl Burke, recognized her effort, awarding the duo 8s across the board for a total of 32 out of 40 points.
The ultimate decision, however, rested with the fans, who rallied overwhelmingly in support of the beloved actress. Bersten expressed immense gratitude on behalf of the pair: “We just wanted to say thank you so much for voting for us, and show so much love to Elaine and the support. We can feel it and we appreciate it so much,” he said in an Instagram video with Hendrix. Their combined efforts resulted in them surviving elimination, paving the way for their return. As Alan Bersten later confirmed to Yahoo Entertainment, “I know that she is cleared to dance for next week. So, we will be back next week and it’s just about pain management now.”
Behind the Scenes: A Star’s Dedication
The incident shed light on the rigorous nature of DWTS and Hendrix’s unwavering commitment. Just a week prior, she had delivered a high-scoring contemporary dance to “Defying Gravity” from Wicked, recreating the musical’s iconic soaring moment and earning a score of 36. This performance demonstrated her artistry and physical prowess, making her subsequent injury all the more impactful.
Even while recovering in the hospital, Hendrix shared glimpses of the Halloween episode’s planned look. Her costume, hair, and makeup were inspired by Charlize Theron’s character in Mad Max: Fury Road, showcasing the creative team’s vision and her enthusiasm for the theme. Missing out on performing this highly anticipated routine was a personal blow, as she stated on Instagram, “Halloween is my favorite, and I’m devastated. 💔 I was beyond excited to share what we had worked so hard on, although you’ll see a version of it.”
Looking Ahead: A Resilient Comeback
With medical clearance secured and fan votes guaranteeing their spot, Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten are set to return to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom on Tuesday, November 4, for an episode themed around the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, as reported by Us Weekly. Bersten emphasized their cautious approach to upcoming choreography, ensuring it doesn’t exacerbate her injury, and initially planned for Hendrix to take two full days off dancing to prioritize her recovery.
Her journey on Dancing With the Stars has not only showcased her impressive dance skills but also her remarkable resilience and connection with her audience. For fans of Elaine Hendrix, from her unforgettable roles in classic films to her current endeavors, her unwavering spirit continues to inspire. Her return to the dance floor promises to be one of the season’s most anticipated and emotional moments.
