Why Did Laurie Hernandez Break Down in Tears Following Her Foxtrot on DWTS?
Laurie Hernandez's foxtrot was completely magical during Dancing With the Stars' super competitive Season 23 semi-finals — despite some seriously difficult circumstances. Laurie and her partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, took the stage for their emotional performance mere days after the Puerto Rican gymnast's grandmother, Brunilda Hernandez, who suffered from Alzheimer's disease, passed away.
It was an understandably tough night for Laurie, but she gave it her all, even allowing herself to break down at the end, while Val did his best to comfort his heartbroken partner. Laurie took to Instagram to express her grief after the show, writing:
Today was pretty rough and emotional; but I'm grateful to have the people I'm closest to help pick me back up. I lost someone very dear to me. My grandma was a tough cookie, and she'll always have a special place in my heart. Thanks for all of your love and support; and thank you @iamvalc for being there for me and looking out for me.
We're sending our love to Laurie! Press play above to watch what could be her rawest performance to date. Then, re-watch all her DWTS moments.