Jen Affleck, the beloved star of “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” has captured hearts with her unwavering determination on “Dancing with the Stars.” This week, her journey took an unexpected turn as she battled a severe illness, yet still prepared to perform a deeply personal Viennese Waltz dedicated to mothers everywhere, showcasing immense resilience and inspiring fans globally.
The ballroom lights of “Dancing with the Stars” often illuminate stories of triumph, but rarely does a contestant face such profound personal challenges leading up to a pivotal performance as Jen Affleck. The popular “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star has been battling a debilitating illness in the days leading up to “Dedication Night,” sparking an outpouring of support from fans and her devoted husband, Zac Affleck.
A Week of Unforeseen Challenges: Zac Affleck’s Plea for Prayers
Ahead of tonight’s show, Jen Affleck’s husband, Zac Affleck, took to TikTok to share an emotional update with their followers. He revealed that Jen had been severely ill, rendering her unable to practice and mostly confined to bed. Zac’s heartfelt plea for prayers resonated deeply with fans, highlighting the immense pressure and physical toll the competition takes, especially under such circumstances, as reported by People on October 14, 2025.
In his touching post, accompanied by photos of the mother of three, Zac wrote, “This week, she has been so sick. She hasn’t been able to practice and has been stuck in bed most of the week.” He added, “Jen would never ask but she needs all the help and prayers she can get!” The timing of the illness coincided with a special visit from Jen’s mother, Maria, who stepped in to offer crucial support, preparing homemade meals and helping care for her daughter, a detail confirmed by E! Online.
The “Rescue” Anthem: A Dance Dedicated to Motherhood
Despite her health struggles, Jen and her professional partner, “Eras Tour” dancer Jan Ravnik, were determined to perform their Viennese Waltz to “Rescue” by Lauren Daigle. This song became a fitting anthem for a week filled with challenges, embodying her spirit of perseverance. Jen shared her feelings about the song, stating it “means everything to me—it’s for mothers who show up daily, serve without days off, and suffer in silence. Postpartum/prenatal included. I want every mom to feel seen and heard.”
The routine for “Dedication Night” holds particular significance for Jen, as she plans to honor her mother, Maria, and all mothers. This dedication highlights her deep appreciation for the sacrifices and unwavering strength of maternal figures, a theme that resonates profoundly with her own experiences balancing a demanding career and a bustling family life.
Juggling Stardom and Motherhood: Jen’s Relatable Struggle
Jen’s participation in “Dancing with the Stars” comes just two months after giving birth to her third child, daughter Penelope. She and Zac are also parents to daughter Nora, 3, and son Lucas, 2. This demanding schedule, combining intense rehearsals with the realities of caring for three young children, is a testament to her remarkable resilience.
In a recent interview, Jen openly discussed these challenges, stating, “I am working out half the day and coming home exhausted, but I’ve got three babies to take care of. I’ve gotta cook, clean, and do all the normal things you do as a mom. But that’s how you know I’m a mom. Us moms, we just do it,” as quoted by Page Six. Her candidness about the realities of motherhood, especially while under such public scrutiny, has made her a relatable and inspiring figure for many.
An Outpouring of Fan Support and Inspiration
The news of Jen’s illness brought an immediate wave of love and encouragement from her dedicated fanbase. Zac’s TikTok comments section quickly filled with well wishes, prayers, and heartfelt messages. Fans lauded Jen’s big heart and inspiring presence on the dance floor. One particularly emotional message read, “Jen saved my life. I was going through the hardest time of my life while this show played in the hospital. You are so strong, moving, and important to me. Please keep fighting.”
This overwhelming support underscored the profound connection Jen has forged with her audience, turning her personal struggles into a shared journey of strength and perseverance. Zac even revealed he was collecting these inspiring stories to share with Jen before her performance, providing her with an additional boost of motivation.
Looking Ahead: The Power of Resilience on the Dance Floor
Jen Affleck’s journey on “Dancing with the Stars” is more than just a dance competition; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, motherhood, and the unyielding human spirit. Her ability to push through sickness and personal demands while maintaining grace and positivity has cemented her status as an inspiration for many. She confirmed her illness was not COVID-19, but chose not to elaborate further, focusing instead on her commitment to the stage.
Fans eagerly anticipate her performance, knowing the immense effort and heart she poured into it. “Dancing with the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+, with new episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. As Jen Affleck steps onto the ballroom floor tonight, she carries not just her own strength, but the collective hopes and prayers of a community inspired by her fight.
