Who Is Melissa Rycroft? Former ‘DWTS’ Champion Arrested in Dallas

Melissa Rycroft, the former “Dancing With the Stars” champion and reality TV personality, was arrested in Dallas, Texas, on September 23, 2025. According to reports, the 42-year-old was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). The news surfaced after TMZ obtained her arrest record and published her mugshot online.

Rycroft, known to many for her appearances on “The Bachelor” and “DWTS,” has not addressed the incident publicly. Her lawyer, Bret Martin, released a statement urging the public to reserve judgment until the full legal process plays out.

Details About Melissa Rycroft’s Arrest

Melissa Rycroft first rose to fame on Season 13 of ABC’s “The Bachelor,” where she was briefly engaged to Jason Mesnick. She later joined “Dancing With the Stars” Season 8, finishing in third place with pro partner Tony Dovolani, before returning for the All-Stars season and winning the Mirrorball Trophy. Beyond reality TV, she has worked as a TV host and influencer while raising her three children with husband Tye Strickland.

On September 23, Dallas-area law enforcement arrested Rycroft for suspected DUI after an alleged traffic violation. She was reportedly detained for several hours and released the same day on a $1,000 bond. TMZ reported that a mugshot of the former dancer has circulated online since the arrest.

Her attorney, Bret Martin, told TMZ that the arrest “is no indication of guilt,” emphasizing that Rycroft is “presumed innocent until proven otherwise.” He added that the defense team will closely review the toxicology results and police conduct before making any further legal moves. Martin also criticized the rush to judgment on social media, urging the public to let the legal process unfold fairly.

Public Reaction and Impact on Her Career

Fans have flooded Rycroft’s Instagram with comments about the arrest, especially under her most recent post from September 5 featuring her daughter Ava. Many longtime followers expressed shock, while others voiced support for allowing the legal case to develop before making assumptions.

As of now, Rycroft has remained silent on social media and has not released any personal statement regarding the arrest. Entertainment outlets, including TMZ and Parade, reported that she has avoided public appearances since the incident. Her work in television and hosting projects has not been officially affected, but media scrutiny has intensified.

Melissa Rycroft’s case remains ongoing. Her lawyer continues to stress that she has not been convicted of any crime, and further legal updates will likely emerge once toxicology results and police reports are fully reviewed.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Melissa Rycroft?

Melissa Rycroft is a TV personality known for “The Bachelor” and “Dancing With the Stars,” where she won the All-Stars season. She is also a mother of three.

Q2: Why was Melissa Rycroft arrested?

She was arrested in Dallas on September 23, 2025, on suspicion of driving under the influence. She was later released on a $1,000 bond.

Q3: Has Melissa Rycroft made a public statement?

No, she has not personally commented on the arrest. Her lawyer released a statement asking the public to avoid rushing to judgment.

Q4: Could this affect Melissa Rycroft’s career?

It’s unclear at this point. Public reaction is mixed, and no official announcements have been made about her TV or media roles.

Q5: What did her lawyer say?

Her lawyer reminded the public that Rycroft is presumed innocent until proven guilty and urged people to let the legal process play out.