Elaine Hendrix is making her big return to the “Dancing with the Stars” ballroom tonight after last week’s unexpected injury; and let’s just say, fans have been waiting for this one.
The theme? Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night, celebrating the legendary artists who helped shape music history. For their comeback routine, Elaine and pro partner Alan Bersten are set to perform a Viennese Waltz to “What the World Needs Now Is Love” by Dionne Warwick.
But that’s not all. The couples are also hitting the floor for a team dance packed with hits from Chicago and Kool & the Gang. Yep, it’s about to get funky. Expect a full dose of feel-good energy, classic grooves, and the kind of nostalgia-fueled fun that DWTS fans eat up every season.
WARNING: This post was updated live as the November 4, 2025 episode of “Dancing with the Stars” aired.
Their Viennese Waltz Was Epic
It seems like Elaine and Alan can turn any style into a story, but this Viennese Waltz hit different.
The dance was everything fans hoped for after her week off; graceful, emotional, and totally in sync. Elaine floated across the floor with effortless poise, showing no sign of hesitation from her recovery.
Alan’s choreography perfectly matched Dionne Warwick’s classic, highlighting soft spins, fluid transitions, and that dreamy ballroom chemistry the two have built all season. You could see it in the way they looked at each other during the final turn… that “we did it” moment that dancers live for.
Even 2013 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Flavor Flav (yep, that Flavor Flav), who joined the panel this week as guest judge was feeling the love.
The Judges Comments & Scores
The judges were locked in for this one. With all eyes on Elaine Hendrix to see if her big comeback would bring the same spark and elegance she’s been serving all season. Here’s what they thought of her and Alan’s performance tonight.
- Carrie Ann said, “when I watch you dance, it feels so familiar. It’s the language I speak from my heart.” Score: 9/10
- “You are resilient, you’re radiant.” Derek exclaimed. He then called her dancing a “breath of fresh air.” Score: 9/10
- “That really was a sumptuous performance, extremely elegant, light, flowing,” Bruno told the duo. Score: 9/10
- “You don’t move like you were hurt. You healed up beautifully,” Flavor Flav said. “That was so amazing.” Score: 10/10
Yes, Elaine and Alan pulled in their first 10! They earned a score of 37/40, so far. But the team dance scores are still on the way, and let’s be real, anything can happen on DWTS.
Did the Team Dance Round Change Everything?
Elaine & Alan were on Team Kool with Julianne Hough; Andy (team captain) & Emma; Robert & Witney; and Alix & Val. They faced off against Team Chicago with Alfonso Ribeiro; Danielle (team captain) & Pasha; Whitney & Mark; Jordan & Ezra; and Dylan & Daniella.
- Team Chicago got a 10 from Carrie Ann, Bruno, Derek, and Flavor Flav, earning a perfect 40/40 in this round.
- Team Kool were given a 9 from both Carrie Ann and Bruno and a 10 from both Derek and Flavor Flav, earning a 38/40 for this round.
These team dance scores will be added to each couple’s main scores for the night, and then it all gets mixed with the audience votes to figure out who’s safe… and who will be packing their ballroom shoes.
UPDATE: Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten are SAFE! Want to see the full live recap of tonight’s episode? Check it out here.
Next Week? DWTS Throws a Birthday Party
Don’t forget to check out the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony Saturday, November 8, 2025 streaming live on Disney+ at 8:00pm ET. Then, tune in for next week’s episode.
The theme sets us up for a major celebration. Why? Because “Dancing with the Stars” is turning 20! The milestone Birthday Party Night will honor two decades of sequins, sambas, and shocking eliminations. Expect special guests, appearances from former champions, and a whole lot of nostalgia.
And let’s be real; after tonight’s performance, Elaine and Alan are exactly the kind of duo fans will be watching at that party.
“Dancing with the Stars” airs Tuesdays at 8:00pm ET on ABC and Disney+, streaming next day on Hulu.
