Selma Blair Opens Up About ‘Really Emotional’ Departure From ‘DWTS’ After Health Scare

Selma Blair appeared in a wide range of films and television shows before being recognized for her leading role in Brown’s Requiem (1998). Her big break came when she landed the role of Zoe Bean in the WB sitcom Zoe, Duncan, Jack, and Jane (1999–2000). Blair was named as a contestant for Season 31 of Dancing with the Stars on September 8th, 2022.

Selma Blair graciously exited “Dancing With the Stars” on Monday night because of ongoing health concerns. During the “Most Memorable Year” night, the “Cruel Intentions” star and her pro partner, Sasha Farber, danced one final dance together. It was a tear-filled waltz to Andra Day’s “What the World Needs Now Is Love.”

Blair’s dance was choreographed to reflect the year 2018 when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) after years of illness. “This was a really emotional night for me,” Blair told Page Six after the show. “Because it was filled with so much love for me and my love for everyone here is really, really, really returned,” she continued.

When asked what she’s learned about herself as a result of her experience on the dancing competition show, the “Legally Blonde” star claimed she outperformed her own expectations in so many ways. “I learned that I could do things that I didn’t even think I wanted to do anymore,” she explained.

I learned that with passion and [hope] that you could feel as beautiful as the people that you’re watching. That it can be inspiring.

For me, there’s never any, like, despair in comparison when you’re with a crowd like this, with these celebrities and these pros. I’m so proud of this show and this production for welcoming a couple of us [like Daniel Durant, who is deaf] where it’s just a little extra of a challenge. But look at the way we just prove ourselves in different ways.

Farber also spoke on his departure, saying how motivating it was to be partnered with such an “icon” this season. “There aren’t enough words to say how proud I am,” he told reporters Monday night. “She is a true inspiration. She has not only inspired myself, but so many people around the world … there’s nothing this lady can’t do.”

MS is defined as  “a disease that impacts the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves, which make up the central nervous system and controls everything we do,”  according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Symptoms include memory and speech problems, pain, fatigue, and difficulty walking. Blair revealed in a pre-recorded interview package that aired prior to her performance Monday night that she had to withdraw from the competition due to health reasons.

I had MRIs and the results came back, and it all adds up to, I can’t go on with the competition. I’ve pushed as far as I could. With a chronic illness, you do have special considerations, and my body has taken a hit. It’s way too much for the safety of my bones. I could do extensive damage that I, of course, do not want.

I really want to have one last beautiful dance with you, and bow out. So, this is a dance for everyone that has tried and hoped they could do more, but also, the power in realizing it’s time to walk away. I am so, so grateful to be able to do one last gentle dance.

“Dancing With the Stars” returns Tuesday for “Prom Night” at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Disney+. Let us all wish her health and happiness. To get the latest updates, keep an eye on Thirsty.

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