On Tuesday, October 28 2025, Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) Week 7 brought its Halloween Night theme to the ballroom—complete with blood-red costuming, throwback reunions, and backstage moments the cameras missed. While the nine remaining couples battled in an eerie “Dance Monster-thon,” the audience was also treated to subtle off-camera drama and heartwarming surprises.
Mini “High School Musical” Reunion & Supportive Moments
One of the night’s most endearing off-screen moments came when Ashley Tisdale and Kenny Ortega—both alumni of the “High School Musical” franchise—cheered on Dylan Efron and his partner Daniella Karagach. Tisdale posted a snapshot of the two together, calling her longtime collaborator “so much.” Dylan reposted it with crying-laughing emojis to show his excitement.
Meanwhile, Tisdale brought along her daughter Jupiter to the set—she even shared a clip of Ortega lifting Jupiter in the air, captioning: “Took the princess to Dancing with the Stars… And she got to dance with the one and only Kenny Ortega.” Those moments remind us: while DWTS is a competition, the camaraderie backstage often shines through.
Behind the Routines: Solo Practice & Injuries
Backstage, another star seized a quiet moment before showtime. Robert Irwin was spotted rehearsing alone, holding onto invisible space as though he were dancing with a partner in mid-air. He and partner Witney Carson went on to perform an Argentine Tango to “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” in a haunting Halloween-themed version—a dance that reportedly required extra creative risk and theatrical suspense PEOPLE reports.
On the flip side, Elaine Hendrix suffered a rib injury during rehearsal and was unable to perform the night of. Though doctors cleared her to remain in the competition, the moment underscored how physically and emotionally intense the ballroom can be behind the glitter and glam. Their Halloween-night Argentine tango to “Sweet Dreams Are Made of This” captivated the ballroom with its eerie elegance and precision. The routine showcased their growing chemistry, sharp storytelling, and commitment to pushing creative limits. Judges praised the haunting performance for its power and poise, marking one of the duo’s standout moments of the season.
The Elimination & Reflective Moments
The episode concluded with the elimination of Jen Affleck and partner Jan Ravnik. Affleck told PEOPLE she signed up for the season not just to dance, but to tell her story—and to inspire other mothers who are “doing it all.”
She emphasized that the trophy isn’t what matters most: “what matters … is the story you’re telling and the intention and purpose you have behind whatever goal it is.” reports PEOPLE.
Her message hit a meaningful note: beyond the spook-themed costumes and dance routines, DWTS remains a platform for personal growth, community, and transformation.
