Amber Glenn Struck Partner During Dance Rehearsal
Professional dancer Pasha Pashkov sustained a nose injury during a practice session with partner Amber Glenn.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Dancing
During a rehearsal for Dancing With the Stars, Amber Glenn accidentally hit her partner Pasha Pashkov in the face with her elbow. Pashkov suffered a bloody nose and required an icepack for medical attention.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the physical intensity of professional dance competitions, where high-stakes training sessions can lead to unexpected injuries. Despite the mishap, the pair successfully performed a foxtrot to Toto's 'Hold the Line'.
Amber Glenn, age 26, and Pasha Pashkov, age 40, earned a score of 8 from judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough, age 41. This tally marked the highest score awarded so far this season.
The players
Amber Glenn
She is a 26-year-old participant on the current season of the dance competition.
Pasha Pashkov
He is a 40-year-old professional dancer who was injured during a training session.
Carrie Ann Inaba
She is a veteran judge on the long-running television competition series.
Bruno Tonioli
He is a well-known choreographer and television personality serving as a show judge.
Derek Hough
The 41-year-old is a professional dancer and long-time judge for the program.
The details
The accidental strike occurred during a dance practice session, causing Pashkov to experience nausea alongside his injury. He was treated promptly at the ballroom with an icepack to address the swelling and bleeding.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: The rehearsal injury was broadcast during the show.
Culture Shift
The incident mirrors the high-intensity rehearsal culture of Dancing With the Stars, where participants face extreme physical pressure to perfect complex choreography. This event underscores the delicate balance between competitive ambition and the physical safety of professional performers.
Viewers may note how quickly professional dancers recover to maintain their performance quality despite sustaining acute physical injuries. The event serves as a practical reminder of the physical demands required for mastering intricate dance routines.
The takeaway
Maintaining physical health is critical when training for high-level athletic or artistic performances. Proper immediate treatment like ice application is essential for managing minor trauma to ensure performers can continue their routines safely.
Further reading
For more on the latest performances and developments, explore our Dancing section.
