J.R. Martinez 'Honored' To Share His Journey

Although he didn't earn the judges' top scores on last night's Dancing with the Stars, war vet-turned-soap star J.R. Martinez certainly scored high with the audience as evidenced by the crowd's lengthy standing ovation. 

This week's round of dancing called for a personal story theme which in turn would gave viewers a chance to learn more about the celebs in the competition. Contestant J.R. chose to tell the story of his personal struggle to regain strength and positivity following the accident that nearly took his life, and Martinez tells ET he was "honored" to be given the opportunity.

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"Everybody sees the positive and happy side of me and nobody really sees the struggle and the journey that I went on to get to this place," J.R. explained. "I wanted to be able to share that and [pro-partner Karina Smirnoff] allowed me to."

In reflecting on his performance backstage, J.R. shared his gratitude for being alive as he did the chance live and tell his tale. "I'm honored not only to have the opportunity to be on the show and to have reached week three to tell the story, but I'm honored to have such an amazing friend and teacher that allowed me to go there."

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Watch the video to hear more from Ricki Lake, Chynna Phillips and David Arquette who share details behind their personal dances this week.

Dancing with the Stars returns tomorrow. Tune in for the results show to see who stays and who goes!