OAK RIDGE, Tenn. — Actress Elaine Hendrix, best known for her roles in “The Parent Trap” and “Dynasty,” is turning heads on season five of “Dancing with the Stars.” This East Tennessee native is proving that age is just a number as she competes for the iconic Mirrorball Trophy — and she’s doing it with grace, determination, and Southern charm.
A Star with East Tennessee Roots
Hendrix was born in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and grew up in Morristown until she was 15 years old. Although her acting career has taken her across the country, from Los Angeles to Atlanta, she says her heart remains in her home state.
“No matter where I go — and I go all over the place — one of the constants in my life is East Tennessee,” Hendrix said. “My career is unpredictable and ever-changing, but Tennessee keeps me grounded.”
The actress says she never imagined she would one day be a Hollywood star. “I didn’t grow up thinking, ‘I’ll get to Hollywood,’” Hendrix recalled. “It didn’t even register. I’m living proof of opportunity meeting preparation. I’ve worked my butt off every step of the way — taking one opportunity at a time and giving it everything I’ve got.”
Learning the Art of Ballroom Dancing
Taking on “Dancing with the Stars” has been a completely new challenge for Hendrix. While she’s used to playing characters on screen, this time, she’s simply being herself — and that’s what makes the experience so rewarding.
“It’s so different from anything I’ve ever done,” she said. “Normally, I’m acting. Now, I’m just me, pushing myself in ways I haven’t in over 30 years.”
Each week, Hendrix has only five days to learn a new ballroom routine with her professional partner, Alan. “I’ve never done ballroom before,” she explained. “Learning the technique, the posture, the steps, and performing it live — it’s a lot to take in. There’s hardly any time to think before we’re already on to the next dance.”
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Embracing Age and Defying Expectations
On a recent episode, judge Carrie Ann Inaba praised Hendrix for her poise and energy, acknowledging that she’s the oldest female competitor this season at 54. While some fans criticized the comment, Hendrix views her age as a strength rather than a limitation.
“When you’re older, you’ve got some miles on you,” she said. “I’ve got injuries, I’ve got years of experience, and I face challenges others might not. But I’m pushing through them. People may have low expectations because of my age, and that just drives me harder. My age matters — it’s part of my story.”
For Hendrix, representing women over 50 on a national stage is deeply personal. “When I step onto that dance floor, I’m doing it for myself, my partner Alan, and for the fans who’ve supported me,” she said. “I want to show women everywhere — especially women of a certain age — that they are valuable, capable, and powerful. It’s not about clichés; it’s about real self-belief.”
The Power of Community and Support
Although she doesn’t have the massive social media following of some of her younger competitors, Hendrix says the encouragement she’s received has been overwhelming.
“It makes me emotional,” she admitted. “I’m so grateful because I don’t take any of it for granted. I’m working so hard every single day, and the support from fans keeps me going.”
A lot of that support, she says, comes from her hometown. “Friends told me that Yeehaw Brewing Co. in Tennessee hosted a watch party for me. There might be others, too,” Hendrix said with a smile. “Knowing that people back home are cheering me on means everything.”
Dancing Toward a Dream
As “Dancing with the Stars” continues, Elaine Hendrix is not only learning new dances — she’s also inspiring a new generation of fans who see her as a role model of resilience and authenticity.
“I’m starting to dare to dream,” Hendrix said. “Winning would be amazing, but more than anything, I want to show that it’s never too late to challenge yourself and do something extraordinary.”
From the bright lights of Hollywood to the heartfelt cheers in East Tennessee, Hendrix’s journey is a reminder that with hard work, courage, and self-belief, anything is possible — at any age.
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