Jeannie Mai Is Forced to Quit 'DWTS' Due to Hospitalization, and Fans Are Sad to See Her Go
It looks like Jeannie Mai will not be taking home the mirrorball trophy on season 29 of Dancing With the Stars. The TV host was forced to leave the competition after being hospitalized and diagnosed with epiglottis. DWTS made the announcement on its social media pages, writing that "Jeannie has inspired us, along with millions of fans, with her energy and dedication. We wish her a full and speedy recovery."
Mai confirmed to Good Morning America that she is leaving the show because of the diagnosis. "My doctors discovered a health concern with my throat which requires immediate attention and surgery," she said. "I am heartbroken that my DWTS journey has to end here."
On a segment aired during the show, Mai explained the epiglottis saying, "I found out that I have a throat abscess where my tonsils and my throat had gotten so infected that it started permeating to the rest of the areas behind my neck and my ears, that I had to get emergency surgery." The clip showed Mai in her hospital bed as a doctor offscreen said, "Everything went great, you’re all done. You’re out of danger, if you would’ve waited one more day your throat would’ve closed up."
"I couldn’t have asked for a better partner this season," Brandon Armstrong, Mai's dance partner said. "She’s made this journey so special.”
Many fans are heartbroken over the loss of Mai to the show, and they are sending their well-wishes for her recovery. "I always look forward to your dances, your energy and your overall radiance, but your health is way more important than anything," one fan commented. "So sad to lose her, she is a great competitor," another fan said. "Wish her a quick recovery." "Praying for her and sending lots of positive vibes for a speedy recovery," one fan added.
Other competitors on the show have also chimed in with their own messages of love. "We love you Jeannie!" Nev Schulman said. "We all love you so much," Chrishelle Stause agreed.
DWTS also confirmed that in light of Mai's departure from the show, Monday night's episode will no longer be a double elimination as was intended, but will instead "feature the eight remaining couples and a single elimination."
What Is Epiglottis?
Epiglottis is a condition that occurs when the small "lid" that covers your windpipe swells and blocks air flow to your lungs, according to Mayo Clinic. Healthline notes that epiglottis is most commonly caused by a bacterial infection, but can also be the result of other respiratory infections. Epiglottis can be potentially life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. In Mai's case, this means surgery.
We are wishing Mai a speedy recovery and hope to see her back on her feet soon. (Maybe even in season 30 of DWTS?)
Tune in Monday night at 8 p.m. EST to ABC to find out who is going home this week on Dancing With the Stars.
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