The “Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 competitors created an unforgettable show when they took to the ballroom for Week 8. It was Rock & Roll Night, and Danielle Fishel and her professional partner, Pasha Pashkov, performed a contemporary routine to “Dream On” by Aerosmith. Unfortunately, it was their last performance of the season as they were later eliminated.
Carrie Ann Inaba Reflects on Her Comments
Before their elimination, the pair earned 34 out of 40 from judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Derek Hough, and special guest judge Flavor Flav. They were among the bottom of the pack on the night. When Inaba delivered her score, she used the moment as an opportunity to apologize to Fishel for commenting on her body in Week 7. Her critique at the time was “You have to use the space because you are a tiny little woman,” E! News reports.
In the confessional before the show, Fishel and Pashkov reflected on Inaba’s earlier comments and how she wanted Fishel to use more space on the ballroom floor. Pashkov felt this contemporary routine was the perfect opportunity for the “Boy Meets World” star to do this.
“I would like to apologize for my words if they hurt you at all because I didn’t mean that at all,” Inaba said. “You are small but you do pack a punch, and that’s why I can say it, because I believe in you, OK?” Fishel was not offended by the judge’s remarks. Still, it was thoughtful of Inaba to apologize for a remark that she felt could have been hurtful.
“Contemporary is all about the emotion, it’s all about the storytelling — you told that story,” Inaba added. “I felt the chills. There’s that magic thing that happens in the air that we can all feel, that takes us into a place that’s not here. Thank you for the transport. Well done.”
Saying Goodbye to Danielle Fishel
Fans are heartbroken to say goodbye to Fishel, who was such a great performer. She was arguably not the strongest dancer in the ABC competition, given the level of talent this year. However, she is well-liked for her personality and energy.
On November 5, the day after Fishel’s elimination, the official “Dancing with the Stars” Instagram account posted photos of her. “Danielle, you brought a light and energy to the ballroom that we will miss dearly. We’re so proud of your journey with Pasha this season!” the caption reads. “Help us send them love as they leave the competition #DWTS #RockHallNight.”
Fans flooded the comment section with loving messages. “Team Topasha forever,” a comment reads. “I hate that they were eliminated !! She was such a joy to watch I love her and Pasha they made an amazing team,” another fan shared.
“She deserved to stay!” a third fan wrote.
