Rylee Arnold Addresses Shocking Dancing with the Stars Elimination in Emotional Video: “I Have a Heavy Heart for Sure” 🥹

It was one of the most emotional nights Dancing with the Stars fans have witnessed this season. After weeks of dazzling choreography, laughter, and unforgettable performances, Rylee Arnold and her celebrity partner Scott Hoying were unexpectedly eliminated — leaving the ballroom and its viewers in stunned silence.

Their final dance, a heartfelt performance to “The Wizard and I” from Wicked, showcased everything audiences had come to love about the pair: precision, connection, and pure storytelling through movement. The routine earned praise from the judges and tears from the crowd. So when host Alfonso Ribeiro announced that Rylee and Scott would be going home, gasps filled the studio.

For many fans, it didn’t feel like just another elimination — it felt like an ending that came too soon.

A Shock Felt Across the Ballroom

Coming off a strong performance streak, Rylee and Scott seemed destined for the semifinals. Fans pointed out that their chemistry and emotional depth had grown exponentially since week one.

“I just don’t understand how they’re out,” one fan commented on social media. “They’ve improved every single week — this doesn’t make sense.”

Even fellow contestants expressed disbelief backstage. One pro dancer reportedly told Entertainment Tonight, “They gave one of their best dances tonight. Everyone thought they were safe.”

Part of the shock came from timing: no one had been eliminated the previous week, which made this double departure feel even more abrupt and painful.

But the moment that truly captured everyone’s hearts came after the show — when Rylee Arnold, only 19 years old and in her first season as a full-time pro, opened up to fans in an emotional TikTok video that’s now gone viral.

“I Have a Heavy Heart for Sure” — Rylee Opens Up

In the softly lit clip posted just hours after the elimination, Rylee appeared visibly emotional. Her voice trembled as she addressed her followers.

“I have a heavy heart for sure,” she began. “It’s been an incredible journey, but it’s hard — really hard — to leave something that’s meant so much to me.”

She went on to express deep gratitude for her partner Scott Hoying, calling him “one of the kindest, most genuine people” she’s ever met.

“Scott gave everything — his time, his energy, his vulnerability,” she said. “To watch him grow into this confident, graceful performer has been the most rewarding thing.”

The video quickly drew hundreds of thousands of views, with fans flooding the comments with love and support. Many praised Rylee for her maturity and authenticity.

“Rylee, you’re such a light,” one viewer wrote. “This is just the beginning for you — we can all see your heart.”

A Bond That Went Beyond the Ballroom

Throughout the season, Rylee and Scott’s partnership became one of the show’s most genuine and heartwarming duos. Their behind-the-scenes clips often showed them laughing, cheering each other on, and pushing through tough rehearsals.

Scott, best known as a member of the Grammy-winning group Pentatonix, credited Rylee with helping him step outside his comfort zone.

“I’ve spent my life performing with a mic in hand,” Scott shared in an earlier episode. “But dancing — dancing is a whole new world. Rylee’s patience and positivity made it possible for me to even try.”

Rylee, for her part, often described Scott as “the dream partner” — hardworking, humble, and always open to learning.

Their journey became symbolic of what Dancing with the Stars represents at its best: growth, courage, and the joy of creative connection.

Fans Rally: #JusticeForRylee Trends Online

Almost immediately after their elimination aired, social media erupted. The hashtag #JusticeForRylee began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with fans expressing frustration over the results.

“I’m honestly devastated,” one viewer posted. “They didn’t deserve to go home tonight. That performance was magic.”

Others pointed out that this was Rylee’s first full season as a pro, and she had already proven herself as one of the show’s most promising young talents.

“Rylee Arnold is the future of DWTS,” another fan tweeted. “Her choreography, her heart, her energy — she’s incredible. She’ll be back stronger than ever.”

Even several former Dancing with the Stars professionals and alumni chimed in, praising Rylee’s poise and professionalism. Lindsay Arnold, Rylee’s sister and longtime DWTS favorite, reposted her TikTok with the caption:

“So proud of you, Rylee. You danced with your whole heart — and that’s all that matters.”

What’s Next for Rylee and Scott?

As the emotional dust settles, both Rylee and Scott have hinted that their partnership may not be over just yet.

In a follow-up Instagram Story, Rylee teased,

“This isn’t goodbye forever. We’ve got something special planned.”

Fans have begun speculating that the two might collaborate again — possibly for a Pentatonix performance or a live tour appearance. Given their undeniable chemistry and the massive fan response, it seems entirely possible.

Meanwhile, Scott posted a heartfelt tribute to Rylee on his own page, writing:

“I couldn’t have asked for a better partner or friend. You taught me how to dance, but more importantly, you reminded me how to have fun doing it.”

Rylee’s Message to Her Fans

Toward the end of her emotional video, Rylee shared one last message that truly resonated with her followers:

“This experience reminded me that even when things don’t end how you hoped, there’s still beauty in the journey. I’m proud of every single step.”

With those words, it was clear that Rylee Arnold — though leaving the ballroom early — had already won something far greater than a mirrorball trophy: the hearts of millions.

As fans continue to rally behind her, one thing is certain — this is not the last we’ll see of Rylee Arnold. If anything, it’s just the beginning of an extraordinary career filled with light, grace, and the kind of strength that shines even after the music stops.