David Krumholtz Explains Why He Missed the ’10 Things I Hate About You’ Reunion on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ and Shares Emotional Words About Heath Ledger

David Krumholtz has addressed his absence from the emotional “10 Things I Hate About You” reunion that took place on “Dancing With the Stars,” explaining that he was miles away on the East Coast while his former castmates gathered to honor the late Heath Ledger.

The actor, who played Michael Eckman in the beloved 1999 romantic comedy, took to Instagram on Wednesday to share why he could not be in the Los Angeles ballroom for the special tribute performance. Krumholtz revealed that he is currently in the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York, where he is filming a movie. In the video, he expressed his disappointment at missing the occasion while also praising the tribute and his former co-stars.

“I could not be in L.A. for Dancing With the Stars last night. I would have loved loved loved to have been there,” Krumholtz said. “Everyone looked so amazing. Julia’s tribute to my dear friend, who I miss every single day, was amazing and stunning, and I’m so proud of her.”

His words carried obvious emotion, given that Ledger was not only a co-star but a close friend. Krumholtz continued by complimenting the other members of the cast, noting how youthful they still appeared. “I thought the cast looked amazing. They all look so young still,” he added.

Then, in a moment of levity, Krumholtz removed his hat to reveal a completely shaved head. He joked that it “would have been weird” to show up alongside his former castmates in the ballroom looking so different, especially since the sight of his bald head would likely become “internet fodder.” He clarified, however, that this was not the reason he missed the reunion. “I didn’t want that, but that’s not why I wasn’t there. I would have dealt with it. Anyway, love them all, love you all,” he concluded.

The reunion came together during the latest episode of “Dancing With the Stars,” which aired Tuesday night and featured a dedication night. Julia Stiles, who starred as Kat Stratford in the film, and her professional partner Ezra Sosa dedicated their routine to Heath Ledger, who played Patrick Verona. The actor died in 2008 at the age of 28 from an accidental overdose, leaving behind a legacy of powerful performances and a dedicated fanbase.

Stiles and Sosa danced to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli, the iconic song that Ledger’s character used to serenade Kat in one of the film’s most memorable scenes. In that sequence, Patrick runs and dances through the high school stadium bleachers while the marching band plays, all in an effort to win Kat’s affections after Joey Donner, played by Andrew Keegan, pays him to take her out. The dance routine incorporated some of Ledger’s signature moves from the scene, making the tribute even more poignant.

As the routine came to an end, the emotional weight of the moment was underscored by the poem that Kat reads in the film, a heartfelt piece about her complicated feelings for Patrick. The ballroom then became a reunion space as Stiles laid a flower on the floor in Ledger’s honor. She was soon joined by several of her “10 Things I Hate About You” co-stars: Andrew Keegan, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik, Gabrielle Union, and Susan May Pratt. Their appearance on stage created a powerful visual for longtime fans of the film, many of whom have waited decades to see the cast together again.

Krumholtz’s absence was noticeable, given his close ties to the film and to Ledger. In his Instagram video, he made it clear that his heart was with the group even if he could not be there in person. He also gave fans an update on his current project, explaining that he is in the Catskills shooting a movie. The Catskill Mountains, located in upstate New York, have long been a popular filming location for productions seeking natural scenery and quieter settings. Krumholtz did not share any further details about the role, but his excitement about the project was evident.

“10 Things I Hate About You” remains a staple of late-90s teen cinema. Directed by Gil Junger and written by Karen McCullah Lutz and Kirsten Smith, the film was a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” It premiered in March 1999 and quickly became a critical and commercial success, praised for its sharp dialogue, charismatic cast, and timeless theme of unexpected romance.

The plot centers on the Stratford sisters: Bianca, played by Larisa Oleynik, and Kat, played by Julia Stiles. Their overprotective father, Walter Stratford, has a strict rule that Bianca cannot date until Kat does. This creates a problem for Joey Donner, a popular student who wants to take Bianca to prom. In order to bypass the rule, Joey pays Patrick Verona, a mysterious and rebellious outsider, to date Kat. What starts as a business arrangement slowly turns into something genuine, much to everyone’s surprise.

David Krumholtz’s character, Michael Eckman, is a friend of Cameron James, the new student played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Cameron also has a crush on Bianca and relies on Michael for advice and comic relief throughout the film. Michael is witty, observant, and fiercely loyal, making him one of the movie’s most endearing supporting characters.

The film also featured notable performances from Gabrielle Union, who played Chastity, and Susan May Pratt, who played Mandella, adding even more depth to the high school world. The chemistry among the entire cast was a major reason the movie resonated with audiences and continues to be celebrated today.

Over the years, “10 Things I Hate About You” has been revisited by fans new and old. Its popularity has led to a television series adaptation, although it was short-lived. The original film, however, remains the version that people cherish, with many quoting its dialogue, recreating its scenes, and celebrating its soundtrack.

Krumholtz has always been open about his affection for the film and his co-stars. He has participated in various reunions and interviews over the years, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and memories of working with Ledger. In past interviews, he has described Ledger as a kind, talented, and vibrant person who left an unforgettable mark on everyone he worked with. The pain of losing Ledger is still clearly felt by those who knew him best, and the “Dancing With the Stars” tribute provided a moment for the cast and fans to honor his memory together.

The tribute was also a testament to how much “10 Things I Hate About You” continues to mean in popular culture. More than two decades after its release, the film still inspires dances, fashion, and affection from celebrities and fans alike. Seeing Julia Stiles perform to the exact song that played during Patrick’s grand gesture was enough to bring tears to the eyes of many viewers. Adding the poem and the flower ceremony made it an unforgettable segment of television.

For Krumholtz, missing the reunion was a professional necessity, but his message made it clear that the bond between the cast members has not faded. His bald head might have been a joking concern, but his words were sincere. He called the tribute “amazing and stunning” and expressed pride in Julia Stiles for delivering such a beautiful homage to Heath Ledger.

The actor’s video post quickly received attention from fans and media outlets, who appreciated his transparency and warmth. Many fans took to social media to express their love for Krumholtz and to share their own memories of the film. Some noted that seeing a grown-up Michael Eckman with a shaved head was surprising, but they understood his reasoning. Others simply expressed hope that he would get a chance to see his co-stars soon.

As “Dancing With the Stars” continues its season, this particular episode will likely stand out as one of the most emotional moments. The confluence of dance, music, and nostalgia created a powerful tribute to a beloved actor and a beloved film. For those who grew up watching “10 Things I Hate About You,” it was a moment of collective reflection on how much time has passed and how much the film still matters.

David Krumholtz’s message added a personal layer to the evening’s events. He might not have been in the ballroom, but his love for his friend and his co-stars was unmistakable. It is clear that Heath Ledger is remembered not only as an Academy Award-nominated actor but also as a dear friend who inspired loyalty and affection from those who knew him.

In the end, the “10 Things I Hate About You” reunion was a celebration of friendship, memory, and the enduring power of a teenage rom-com that refuses to fade away. Krumholtz’s absence was disappointing for fans hoping to see the full cast together, but his heartfelt explanation turned that disappointment into understanding. The film’s legacy continues, and moments like this one ensure that Heath Ledger’s spirit remains ever-present in the hearts of his friends and fans.