DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Suffers In-Flight Medical Emergency

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Carrie Ann Inaba, the 58-year-old judge on the hit TV show Dancing With the Stars, experienced a medical emergency while on a flight from Los Angeles to New York. Inaba reported feeling sudden symptoms like cold sweats, dizziness, and numbness in her arms, prompting her to seek help from the flight crew. The turbulent flight conditions initially made it difficult for the crew to assist, but they were eventually able to stabilize Inaba until the plane landed and paramedics could transport her to the hospital.

Why it matters

In-flight medical emergencies are relatively rare but can be serious, especially when they occur at high altitudes. Inaba's experience highlights the importance of flight crews being prepared to handle such situations and the value of having medical professionals on board to provide immediate care.

The details

According to Inaba's social media posts, she suddenly became ill about midway through the cross-country flight, experiencing symptoms like cold sweats, dizziness, and numbness in her arms. The turbulence on the flight initially made it difficult for the flight attendants to assist her, as they were required to remain seated. Inaba initially tried to manage the situation alone in the airplane restroom before deciding she needed to ask for help. The flight crew was then able to stabilize her until the plane landed, at which point paramedics were waiting to transport Inaba to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

• Inaba's medical emergency occurred during a flight from Los Angeles to New York on April 17, 2026.
• Inaba was transported to the hospital by paramedics immediately after the plane landed.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Inaba is expected to be released from the hospital in the coming days after receiving treatment. It is unclear if her medical emergency will impact her participation in the upcoming season of Dancing With the Stars.