Val Chmerkovskiy Hospitalised with Vertigo, Misses Dancing With The Stars Tour Show
Professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy was compelled to miss a scheduled Dancing With The Stars live tour performance on Sunday evening in Peoria, Illinois, after being admitted to hospital for vertigo treatment. The 39-year-old star disclosed his health predicament in a candid Instagram video, expressing profound regret to disappointed fans.
Apology to Fans and Castmates from Hospital Bed
In his social media post, Chmerkovskiy conveyed, "My apologies to all the fans that came out to see us today in Peoria. Thank you to my fellow castmates for rallying." Accompanying the message was a photograph depicting the dancer wearing a blue beanie hat and grey sweatshirt while confined to his hospital bed. He characterised the situation as a "little bump in the road", assuring followers, "I’ll be good to go ASAP. It takes quite literally me not being able to stand on my feet to keep me off that stage. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t make it tonight."
Detailed Explanation of Vertigo Symptoms
Addressing the camera directly, Chmerkovskiy elaborated on his condition, stating, "I've just been having vertigo for the past couple of days." He provided a vivid description of the disorienting symptoms, noting, "Once that little crystal in your equilibrium goes out, it's really hard to get it back in. I'm just spinning everywhere." The dancer further explained how the vertigo impacted his mobility, revealing, "So when I’m on the bus, and it’s moving… I just woke up and couldn’t get myself together."
Official Announcement and Family Support
The DWTS Tour official Instagram account issued a formal statement, which Chmerkovskiy reposted to his Stories. The announcement read, "Hi Peoria - Unfortunately, due to an unforeseen and last-minute illness, Val will not be able to perform in today's show. He is under medical care and we are wishing him a fast and speedy recovery." His wife, fellow dancer Jenna Johnson, 31, also shared the announcement via her Instagram Stories, adding a crying face and bandaged heart emoji beneath her husband's post in a show of solidarity.
Hopeful Return and Professional Background
Chmerkovskiy expressed optimism about his recovery, indicating, "Hopefully tomorrow’s a day off, and I’ll be back on Tuesday." In a caption accompanying his video clip, he reiterated, "Sorry my friends… small hiccup." The Ukrainian-born dancer, who joined Dancing With The Stars in 2006, has secured three mirrorball trophies throughout his illustrious career. His victories include partnerships with Rumer Willis in 2015, Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez in 2016, and actress Xochitl Gomez in 2023.
Recent Season and Personal Life
Most recently, Chmerkovskiy was partnered with influencer Alix Earle during season 34, which premiered in September 2025 and concluded in December. An insider previously disclosed to DailyMail that the seasoned professional harboured some discontent regarding his celebrity pairing, suggesting he envied contestants with more "desirable" attitudes. On a personal note, Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson married in 2019 and are parents to two-year-old son Rome, who appears to be accompanying them on the tour, underscoring the family's close-knit dynamic amidst this health setback.
