DWTS Pro Val Chmerkovskiy Hospitalized During Tour Due to Vertigo

The dancer shared a video message from his hospital room, saying he "couldn't get myself together" in time for the show.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Val Chmerkovskiy, a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars, was hospitalized during the DWTS Live tour in Peoria, Illinois due to experiencing vertigo. Chmerkovskiy shared a video message from his hospital room, explaining that he had been dealing with vertigo for a couple of days and woke up unable to "get myself together" in time for the scheduled tour performance. He said he had tests done and was hoping to return to the tour on Tuesday.

Why it matters

Vertigo can be a debilitating condition that affects balance and coordination, making it difficult for professional dancers like Chmerkovskiy to perform. This incident highlights the physical challenges dancers face while on tour and the importance of their health and wellbeing.

The details

Chmerkovskiy experienced vertigo, a sudden feeling of spinning or moving, while on the road with the DWTS Live tour in Peoria, Illinois. He shared a video message from the hospital, explaining that the vertigo had been an issue for a couple of days and that he "couldn't get myself together" in time for the scheduled performance. Chmerkovskiy said he had his bloodwork and vitals checked, and was hoping to return to the tour on Tuesday.

  • On Sunday, March 1, Chmerkovskiy shared a video message from the hospital in Peoria, Illinois.
  • The DWTS Live tour was scheduled to perform at the Prairie Home Alliance Theater in Peoria on Sunday, March 1.

The players

Val Chmerkovskiy

A 39-year-old professional dancer who has appeared on Dancing with the Stars.

Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy

Val Chmerkovskiy's wife, who is also a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars.

Dylan Efron

A season 34 contestant on Dancing with the Stars.

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What they’re saying

“Feeling for you Val, Vertigo is awful. Happened to me right before DWTS but it healed quickly. rest up and get those crystals aligned ❤️”

— Dylan Efron, DWTS Season 34 Contestant (Instagram)

What’s next

The DWTS Live tour is scheduled to perform at the Miller High Life Theatre in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Tuesday, March 3. Chmerkovskiy is hoping to return to the tour on that date.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the physical demands and health challenges that professional dancers like Chmerkovskiy face while on tour. It serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing dancer wellness and safety, even during the rigorous schedule of a live tour.