ABC/ADAM LARKEYNot all Dancing With the Stars' stars can go out with a Michael Bolton-size bang. Tonight's eliminee chose to bow out quietly, slinking away before the second the show wrapped and skipping all those fun-filled backstage interviews with reporters like us!
But was this castoff demonstrating some sore loser-ship, or was there a good reason behind bailing on the press line? Here's the real story from backstage:
"He had either a wisdom tooth or sore throat hurting him the whole day," his partner Karina Smirnoff tells us. "He finally got a doctor to see him, so he's in a trailer." Mike's rep echoed Karina's report, but according to her, it's "neck issues" that kept him from the press line.
"I don't think people realize how little time we have to rest. But hopefully he'll be ready for Jimmy Kimmel Live! tonight, because I don't think I can do it on my own," laughs Karina.
Love him or hate him, Mike's DWTS' costars are really sad to see him go.
"Mike did a great job," Karina says. Sure, he's "definitely not a dancer, but he's come a long way. This was short and sweet, but you've got to take it with a grain of salt. I'm going to miss the real Mike, the real person, the sweet, charming guy."
Adds Jennifer Grey: "I'll miss his sweetness and his humor. I've never seen such a quirky guy in my life!"
"He was a hoot!" Bristol Palin tells us—right before laughing at herself for using the word hoot.
Whatever's plaguing you, Mike, get well soon! Your goofy dancing style (and immense love of your own abs) will be greatly missed.