Jen Affleck is making waves on season 34 of Dancing With the Stars, but her journey has not been without its share of challenges as a new mother. The 26-year-old star of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives recently opened up on TikTok about experiencing the postpartum blues. In a candid video, she showcased her initial reluctance to dance, which her professional partner, Jan Ravnik, helped her overcome. With a joyful spirit, they danced to Donna Summer’s “Last Dance,” highlighting the importance of movement during difficult times.
Affleck cleverly captioned her video, “Depression can’t hit a moving target,” highlighting her resolve to keep moving forward even when faced with emotional hurdles. Despite her achievements on the dance floor, including a score of 19 out of 30 for her performances, Affleck has expressed her struggles with body image since giving birth to her daughter Penelope in July, just eight weeks before joining the show.
Fans have rallied around her, with one supporter praising her resilience and talent. Her husband, Zac Affleck, also chimed in with encouragement for her performance during Halloween Week, further emphasizing the familial support she is receiving during this challenging yet exciting time.
Competing alongside notable personalities such as Whitney Leavitt, Jordan Chiles, and Robert Irwin, Jen Affleck is certainly not backing down from the competition. She admitted to feeling the weight of juggling three children under the age of three while also focusing on her dance routines. The reality star characterized her experience as a blend of fun and physical challenge while still navigating the emotional complexities of motherhood.
Affleck has shared her belief that even amidst the stress, her motivation extends beyond personal triumphs; she aims to inspire her children to pursue their passions in the future. Addressing the universal experience of mom guilt, she stressed that being a good parent often involves striving for better each day.
Viewers and fellow contestants have taken note of her dedication and work ethic. The support and amazement from peers reflect the broader understanding of the difficulties faced by new mothers, especially in high-intensity environments.
Dancing With the Stars continues to air on ABC and Disney+, delivering thrilling performances weekly while providing an uplifting space for both contestants and viewers alike. Jen Affleck’s journey resonates with many, proving that even in challenging times, joy and resilience can lead the way.