Alfonso Ribeiro isn’t letting his injury slow him down. Earlier in the day, the actor was reported to be confined in a wheelchair after an incident in Florida. The report sent fans of Dancing with the Stars into panic. The 500th episode of the dancing competition reality show airs on Tuesday, November 12th. They were looking forward to seeing their beloved host. While Ribeiro has yet to comment on his health, a recent sighting shows that he is more than ready to celebrate the milestone with fans.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air alum looked in great spirits during a sighting at LAX. Ribeiro was spotted waiting in line for a flight, presumably to Los Angeles, to take part in the filming for the highly-anticipated 500th milestone. The host donned a casual look comprising a blue camouflage sweater with black pants and colorful sneakers. Ribeiro had on a baseball cap and glasses while chatting with a female companion. He cracked a smile during the conversation and was seen limping.
TMZ was the first to break the news about Ribeiro’s on-set mishap, saying he injured his ankle while filming a dance number at Disney World. Witnesses told the publication that he stepped on one of the trolley rails and rolled his ankle while recording a holiday special.
Fans Worry For Alfonso Ribeiro After He Threw Up
As seen in a video, following the incident, Ribeiro leaned on his DWTS co-host Julianne Hough, afraid of putting his weight on the affected leg. When he eventually summoned the courage, he was in so much pain. Per reports, a production team member ran to his aid, providing a chair so he could sit. He was later transferred to a wheelchair while the crowd cheered with encouragement. Ribeiro reportedly threw up in a trashcan on the side of the street after the accident.
Despite concerns about his well-being, a source claimed Ribeiro’s ankle injury was mild. The insider noted that he planned to soldier on, finish filming, and then participate in DWTS. Following the incident, fans online sent their well wishes to the star. “I hope you get better very soon, Alfonso. Just try and rest your ankle for a day or two,” a fan wrote.
“I am so sorry to hear you got hurt! You’re such a nice man,” a second user wrote.
Alfonso Ribeiro became a household name for his role as Carlton Banks, the cousin of Will Smith’s character on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. His character often danced to It’s Not Unusual by Tom Jones, with the routine gaining fame as “The Carlton.” After the series ended in 1996, Ribeiro featured in a couple of shows and movies before appearing on Season 19 of DWTS as a contestant. He emerged as the winner with professional dancer Witney Carson, cementing his status as a ballroom icon. Two seasons later, Ribeiro returned to DWTS as a guest judge, and the rest is truly history.