Los Angeles: The ballroom lights flickered, fog rolled across the stage, and Halloween Night on Dancing With the Stars proved to be more chilling than anything scripted. After weeks of impressive lifts, dramatic themes, and nail-biting scores, Jan Ravnik and Jen Affleck’s journey came to an emotional end Monday evening, marking them as the sixth couple eliminated from Season 34.
A Surprising Exit That Fans Didn’t See Coming
While eliminations are expected at this stage of the competition, social chatter suggested the pair would survive another week. Ravnik and Affleck’s Contemporary routine to Taylor Swift’s dark-pop anthem “Look What You Made Me Do” was received warmly by audiences in-studio and online, especially given Ravnik’s connection to the Eras Tour.
Still, the leaderboard proved unforgiving.
The duo earned 34 points from judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Derek Hough, and guest judge Cheryl Burke. Combined with bonus points from the Dance Monster-thon, they landed seventh — but not high enough to avoid the bottom.
Jen Affleck’s Emotional Goodbye
Speaking moments after results were announced, Jen fought tears while reflecting on her purpose for joining the show.
“This experience has meant everything to me. I did this for my kids, and I cannot wait to tell them about it,” she said. “I’m so grateful for every rehearsal, every moment.”
Affleck’s sincerity has made her one of the most relatable contestants of the season. Many viewers applauded her growth, and social platforms lit up with support following her exit.
Jan Ravnik Responds to Criticism and Praises His Partner
Ravnik — who previously faced public criticism from former pros Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd — kept things positive when asked about his partner.
“She’s a rockstar, that’s all I’m gonna say,” he remarked firmly.
Earlier in the season, Ravnik shrugged off comparisons and critiques, emphasizing that he wanted fans to judge the performances themselves.
Unexpected Challenges on Halloween Night
Monday’s episode wasn’t without disruption. Actress Elaine Hendrix, partnered with Alan Bersten, was hospitalized earlier in the day due to undisclosed health concerns. As a result, producers aired rehearsal footage in place of a live performance — a rare moment that underscored the physical strain of the competition.
Hendrix still appeared in the bottom three alongside Jen and Jan, and comedian-writer Andy Richter with partner Emma Slater.
Mounting Pressure on the Judges
While fans passionately debate scores each week, some insiders point to how difficult adjudicating can be.
Professional dancer Pasha Pashkov, who’s partnered with Boy Meets World alum Danielle Fishel this season, told E! News on October 21:
“Judges have the hardest job. It’s one thing to throw an opinion in a comment online. It’s another to lift a score paddle in front of millions knowing people may come after you.”
With each elimination, fan-bases intensify — and backlash grows harder to avoid.
Celebrities Still in the Race
The competition remains stacked with fandoms and talent alike. Contestants still dancing include:
Andy Richter
Elaine Hendrix
Alix Earle
Robert Irwin
Danielle Fishel
Jordan Chiles
Dylan Efron
Whitney Leavitt
Each brings a unique audience: from athletes to influencers, television icons to wildlife royalty.
Halloween Night Delivers on Theme and Cinematic Flair
Producers leaned heavily into dramatic storytelling this week — fog machines, gothic costumes, horror-film nods, and eerie lighting effects gave the dances a theatrical edge. Judges praised creativity across the board, noting standout performances from strong contenders who continue to refine technique under pressure.
Where the Competition Goes Next
With the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy looming closer, dancers now move into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night on November 4 — a theme believed to push stamina and rhythm to the limit. Expect high-energy choreography, big risks, and the potential for leaderboard shakeups.
Fan Reaction Online
Comment sections and forums were quick to light up following the elimination. While some expressed disappointment, many praised the contestants’ sportsmanship and outgoing grace. A few fans questioned scoring consistency, while others focused on how tight the middle of the leaderboard has become.
A Season Defined by Storytelling
Season 34 has stood out not just for dancing ability, but for personal journeys:
comeback arcs,
physical setbacks,
emotional breakthroughs,
and surprisingly intense choreography.
As the competition narrows, every misstep becomes magnified.
The Final Stretch Approaches
With fewer slots remaining and audience votes more impactful than ever, the margin between elimination and advancement feels razor thin. For now, the remaining stars are tightening their shoes, icing their injuries, and preparing for the electrifying chaos that next week promises to bring.
Fans can continue following real-time updates and behind-the-scenes coverage on the official broadcast and through the E! News app.