Here's What DWTS Pro Brandon Armstrong Said after He & Jeannie Mai Were Forced to Exit the Show
Pro dancer Brandon Armstrong recently penned down a heartfelt message to TV personality Jeannie Mai after the dancing couple was forced to quit season 29 of DWTS following Mai's health scare.
When Jeannie Mai was paired with pro dancer Brandon Armstrong for the 29th season of the ABC dance competition series "Dancing With the Stars," fans were justifiably excited with the pairing.
In the weeks following the show's premiere, the duo has mostly delivered on their promise of pure entertainment. So, their unexpected exit from the show has been a bit too hard to take for most of their fans.
TV show shot Jeannie Mai at Hallmark's "Home & Family" at Universal Studios Hollywood on June 11, 2019. | Photo: Getty Images
Armstrong and Mai struck up palpable chemistry from the beginning, and their working relationship blossomed with each week. Armstrong showed off their strong bond as he put aside his disappointment to show support for Mai in a heartfelt message.
On Monday, the "Dancing With the Stars" pro shared a picture of himself lifting Mai while they were dressed in costume. He captioned the photo writing:
"JEANNIE! I'm so sorry this happened to you! You don't deserve it! Your journey on this show was so special, so unique, and so inspiring!"
Armstrong continued by fondly reflecting on their journey on the show, which he claimed was filled with many happy moments. He concluded by wishing "The Real" co-host a speedy recovery from her surgery.
The usual double elimination was cut to just one contestant.
Mai, 41, was recently diagnosed with epiglottitis. It is a rare condition that causes inflammation of the throat, which prevents airflow to the lungs.
It is potentially life-threatening and requires immediate surgery. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Mai expressed her disappointment at her exit from the show. She wrote:
"My doctors discovered a health concern with my throat, which requires immediate attention and surgery. I am heartbroken that my DWTS journey has to end here."
The 41-year-old TV host also reflected on her time on the show and reserved special praise for her "DWTS" dance partner, Armstrong. She also thanked her fans for their massive support and keeping her on the show with their votes.
Meanwhile, ABC and BBC Studios paid tribute to Mai in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. They praised her for being an inspiration to millions of fans and also wished her a speedy recovery.
Mai's unfortunate health condition brings an end to a glorious run on the show, which she kicked off with a "gingered" salsa performance on the premiere night.
Due to the pair's exits, the usual double elimination was cut to just one contestant. Even though the show must go on, Mai's journey on "DWTS" will not be quickly forgotten.