“DWTS” contestant Jeannie Mai terminated her journey on the celebrity dance competition show after coming down with a severe health condition.
Television host Jeannie Mai’s journey on the reality dance competition show, “Dancing With The Stars,” came to an end following a health scare.
In a statement, Mai disclosed that doctors diagnosed her with epiglottis, a medical condition that causes swelling in the lungs. The throat condition also blocks the airways, preventing smooth passage of oxygen into the lungs, and can be potentially life-threatening.
She went on to reveal that the condition required immediate medical attention and surgery. Her hospitalization prompted her to end her participation in “DWTS.”
Mai expressed her regrets at having to leave the season before her elimination and parting ways with her dance partner, Brandon Armstrong. She said:
“I am heartbroken that my DWTS journey has to end here. I have pushed myself to new limits physically and mentally. And I am so proud of how far we’ve come.”
Since the shocking revelation, many have taken to different media to wish Mai a speedy recovery. Her “DWTS” partner, Armstrong, noted that despite his disappointment over “cutting the season short,” Mai’s health was paramount.
The celebrity pair of Jeannie Mai and Brandon Armstrong has been a force to reckon with since the onset of the 29th season of “DWTS.”
From their performance as “Up” characters, Ellie and Carl on Disney Night, to several other mind-blowing dance renditions, the duo garnered an impressive fan-following during their time on the series.
A statement on the show’s official Twitter account confirmed Mai’s withdrawal. The organizers also prayed for the star’s recovery while reflecting on her positive input in the season. They shared:
“Jeannie has inspired us, along with millions of fans, with her energy and dedication. We wish her a full and speedy recovery.”
The 41-year-old’s epiglottis diagnosis comes in the wake of her latest “DWTS” feat. At the show’s Villain Night on October 26, Mai thrilled viewers and the judges with her rendition of Hannibal Lecter.
The TV host, partnering up with Armstrong, performed a Paso Doble to “Maneater, ” a song by Nelly Furtado. Their mind-blowing performance earned them accolades from judges Derek Hough, Carrie Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli.
Derek admitted Mai stunned him with her performance as she was irresistible to watch. They snagged a score of 25/30 and eventually qualified for the next phase of the competition at the end of last week’s episode.
Hopefully, fans would get to see the talented pair return for another season, with Jeannie Mai fully recovered and up for the contest.