Xochitl Gomez Sprains Ankle During Dancing with the Stars Rehearsal, Says She’s Cleared to Perform
Xochitl Gomez, the 17-year-old actress and Dancing with the Stars contestant, revealed on TikTok that she suffered a sprained ankle while rehearsing for the show’s Music Video Night. Gomez posted a short clip of herself attempting a cartwheel during rehearsal and noted that she rolled her ankle on the fall. In her caption she wrote, “This shiiii is BANANAS! I’m good tho! A lil sprain but WE WORKIN!”
“This shiiii is BANANAS! I’m good tho! A lil sprain but WE WORKIN!”
Injury Details and Medical Update
Gomez reassured fans in the comments under the video that she had an x-ray and there were no chips or breaks—only a mild sprain. She explained that she feels well enough to continue in the competition, and she indicated she will perform on Tuesday despite the injury. The clip ends with her professional partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, supporting her as she kneels on the floor in visible pain, highlighting the physical risks performers face during intense rehearsals.
This Week’s Routines: Music Video Night
For Music Video Night, Gomez and Chmerkovskiy are scheduled to perform two routines. The couple will present a jazz routine to Gwen Stefani’s upbeat hit “Hollaback Girl,” a high-energy number that showcases attitude and precision. In addition, they will join other couples for a team dance to Psy’s viral hit “Gangnam Style.” Gomez will perform alongside the pairs Harry Jowsey and Rylee Arnold, Lele Pons and Brandon Armstrong, and Charity Lawson and Artem Chigvintsev for the team piece.
Former American Idol star Paula Abdul will appear as a guest judge on the panel for Music Video Night, adding her decades of choreography and judging experience to the show’s commentary.
Support on Set and the Physical Demands of Live Competition
Injuries like sprains are not uncommon in televised dance competitions, where complex choreography, lifts, and rapid transitions put strain on the body. Gomez’s quick update and the visible support from Chmerkovskiy and host Alfonso Ribeiro after a prior performance reflect the immediate care and attention contestants receive when an injury occurs. The dancing community and production team typically prioritize swift medical evaluation—like the x-ray Gomez reported—so performers can know whether they can safely continue.
Recent Episodes and Momentum
Last week, Gomez appeared to be in pain after a contemporary routine to “Game of Survival” by Ruelle. During that moment, Val Chmerkovskiy and host Alfonso Ribeiro assisted her to her feet while the judges checked on her condition; Gomez later confirmed she was “great.” She and Chmerkovskiy then pushed through the competition and excelled in the next challenge, the “Dance Monster-thon” marathon. The pair won that round and earned five extra points, finishing the night with a total of 42 points from a baseline of 37.
What to Expect This Week
Despite the sprain, Gomez’s statement that she is cleared to compete suggests she will appear on the upcoming Music Video Night and perform both scheduled routines. Fans can expect an energetic jazz performance that leans into Gwen Stefani’s signature sass, followed by a team choreography that taps into the playful, viral energy of Psy’s “Gangnam Style.” The supporting cast and judges, including guest judge Paula Abdul, are set to assess the performances and offer feedback.
As always with live dance competitions, there is a balance between artistic risk and physical safety. Gomez’s transparency about her injury, combined with confirmation from medical imaging that there is no break, offers reassurance to viewers while emphasizing the resilience required of dancers on live television.
Gomez’s determination to continue despite a sprain highlights the dedication contestants bring to Dancing with the Stars. Fans will be watching closely to see how she and Chmerkovskiy adapt their choreography and manage recovery while delivering the high-energy performances the show is known for.