Injuries have plagued “Dancing With the Stars” from the beginning this season. Two celebrity contestants – TV host Nancy O’Dell and singer Jewel - had to drop out before the competition even began.
Now, “Bachelor” alumna Melissa Rycroft, who stepped in at the last minute to replace O'Dell, had to skip last night’s show because of a hairline fracture of her ribs.
Rycroft was already dancing in pain last week and a video of her rehearsal with professional partner Tony Dovolani showed her wincing as she practiced the jive for this week’s competition.
Her absence meant the judges had to score the routine based on a rehearsal taped the morning of the live show in which casually-dressed Rycroft and Dovolani danced in an empty ballroom.
They received 7s, with the judges blaming the low scores on not being able to see the couple dance the best routine possible and interact with the audience.
The development now sets up an interesting results show tonight. Rodeo star (and Jewel’s husband) Ty Murray seemed to be on his way out, but he received good reviews and a standing ovation from the audience after his salsa last night. His team also won the group dance competition.
Meanwhile, Rycroft had been receiving consistently great marks, but has her injury slowed her momentum?
Tell us who you think will be the next to go.