Before taking the stage for the first time on Dancing with the Stars on Monday night, Olympian Ryan Lochte made it clear that he was hoping to use the show to find redemption.
However, it appears not everyone was ready to give it to him—and while he and dance partner Cheryl Burke were receiving feedback from the judges after their foxtrot, it appears as if either one or multiple people attempted to rush the stage to attack him.
ABC did not show footage of the alleged attack, but judge Carrie Ann Inaba can be seen getting progressively more flustered and yelling out, "Excuse me! Hey! Back off!" After security stepped in to break up whatever was happening, they quickly cut to commercial. This tweet gives you a better sense of the action:
Anti-Lochte protestor tackled to the ground at #DWTS pic.twitter.com/ATWrFb34nKSeptember 13, 2016
After returning to the show so that Ryan and Cheryl could get the rest of the judges' feedback, the swimmer made it clear he was a little bit shaken up by the whole thing and hurt that it happened.
Neither Ryan nor ABC has yet to release a statement on the matter—but you can watch the pair's performance below.
Update 9/12, 8:00 p.m.: Multiple sources now report that two male protestors wearing shirts with a cross through Ryan Lochte's name stormed the stage on Monday, walking in front of host Tom Bergeron and yelling into the cameras. They were quickly tackled by security and escorted offstage.
This is the cause of the #DWTS disruption. More to come. pic.twitter.com/0AMkY6P2a1September 13, 2016
Anti-Lochte protestor tackled to the ground at #DWTS pic.twitter.com/ATWrFb34nKSeptember 13, 2016
"I was backstage and when I heard the commotion I ran to the side of the stage and I was just in shock," dancer Lindsay Arnold told People. "I couldn't believe it was happening. I think it's a shame that people would feel the need to do that. Ryan is just a guy who is coming here to entertain and get a fresh start and it's sad that such a happy night of dance was disrupted like that."
"Ryan was backstage and close to tears," contestant Jana Kramer added. "Everyone makes mistakes and I really hope America gets to see the guy we are all getting to know, which is a really, really nice guy."
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Gina Mei is a writer and editor based out of Los Angeles. When she isn't writing, reading, and lost in an Internet vortex, she can usually be found petting the nearest dog.
-
'Yellowface' Is Our June Book Club Pick
Read an excerpt from R.F. Kuang's latest novel, here, then dive in with us throughout the month.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
I Scoured the Summer Runways—Here Are the Six Shoe Trends Actually Worth Buying
Hit the ground running this season.
By Emma Childs
-
I’ve Been Planning My Summer Wardrobe for Months—I’m the Most Excited About These Pieces
It’s giving–effortlessly chic.
By Humaa Hussain
-
Everyone Wants Lindsay Lohan on Season 3 of 'White Lotus,' And It Could Actually Happen (If We're Lucky)
Please??????
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
An 'American Idol' Contestant Called Out Katy Perry for "Mom-Shaming" Her
She was really upset by the comment.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Jennifer Coolidge Addressed the Fan Campaign for Pamela Anderson to Play Her Sister on 'White Lotus'
She's a big fan, too.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
'Too Hot to Handle' Season 3 Was Filmed in Actual Paradise
A.k.a. Turks and Caicos.
By Jenny Hollander
-
The Best Celebrity 'Squid Game' Costumes
A handful of stars chose this year's most popular theme.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
The ‘Lizzie McGuire’ Cast Then & Now
'Lizzie McGuire' is getting a modern reboot. In honor of the Disney Channel classic's highly-anticipated update, here's a look at the cast then and now.
By Kayleigh Roberts
-
A Clip of Harry and Meghan Was Reportedly Booed at a British Awards Show
The video was from the couple's interview with Oprah.
By Marie Claire Editors
-
Generation Yara
“We’re in a time in which we’re no longer settling for reform, but genuine reimagination.”
By Lola Ogunnaike