Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes from ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Dedication Night
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Dancing with the Stars’ Dedication Night on October 14 was a night to remember as emotions ran high both on and off the dance floor. Contestants poured their hearts out in tribute to their loved ones, and PEOPLE had exclusive access to all the heartwarming moments that were not caught on camera.
Even before the cameras started rolling, the atmosphere backstage was filled with encouragement and support. Dennis Quaid was seen offering words of support to his former co-star Elaine Hendrix, who performed a touching foxtrot to the tune of “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole with her partner, Alan Bersten. The dance was dedicated to her friend and fellow Parent Trap star, Lisa Ann Walter.
Alix Earle, one of the contestants, was spotted backstage introducing her younger sister, Izabel, to others before their performance together. The heartwarming moment unfolded when Izabel, aged 12, joined Alix and her partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, for a beautiful contemporary dance to “Sparks” by Coldplay.
Throughout the evening, the ballroom was abuzz with interactions between the contestants and their loved ones. Robert Irwin’s mother, Terri, and former DWTS pro Sasha Farber were seen engaging with everyone in the press area. Notable personalities like Dylan Efron’s girlfriend, Courtney King, Abbott Elementary’s Chris Perfetti, and guest judge Kym Johnson-Herjavec’s husband, Robert Herjavec, were also present, along with past DWTS contestants Marilu Henner and Nick Viall.
After the show, the heartfelt moments continued backstage. Dylan Efron was seen sharing a sweet embrace with his girlfriend, Courtney King, who had been cheering him on throughout the evening. The bond between the contestants and their partners was evident as they celebrated their performances together, with Dylan sharing a special moment with his younger brother, Henry, who joined them on the ballroom floor.
The evening was a true celebration of love and dedication, with each performance being a heartfelt tribute to those who hold a special place in the contestants’ hearts. The behind-the-scenes glimpses provided a deeper insight into the personal connections and emotional journey of the dancers, making the night even more unforgettable for everyone involved.
As the night came to a close, the camaraderie and support among the contestants, their partners, and their loved ones shone through, creating a memorable experience both on and off the dance floor. The dedication and passion displayed by all involved truly made Dancing with the Stars’ Dedication Night a night to remember.
Dancing with the Stars airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, inviting viewers to witness not just the performances but also the profound connections and emotions that make the show a truly special experience.