Actress Danielle Fishel is facing an emotional challenge ahead of Dancing with the Stars’ upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night. The Boy Meets World alum will perform a contemporary routine to Aerosmith’s Dream On with her partner Pasha Pashkov.
During the November 2 episode of her Danielle with the Stars podcast, Fishel shared how the preparation for this dance has unexpectedly resurfaced deep personal struggles — including body image issues and self-doubt.
The candid revelation comes as Season 34 of DWTS intensifies on Disney+ and ABC, airing Tuesdays at 8/7c.
Fishel’s Emotional Preparation and Storyline
Throughout the season, Danielle Fishel has documented her DWTS journey, offering behind-the-scenes insights on her podcast. In the latest episode, she discussed the emotional toll of her upcoming performance with former professional dancer Louis van Amstel.
Fishel explained that their contemporary routine tells “the story about how difficult it can be to be a woman in a society where we are somehow always too much and also never enough.” She described the personal nature of the dance, touching on societal expectations surrounding appearance, motherhood, and aging.
Her remarks revealed that the preparation has triggered old insecurities, leading to “negative self-talk” and “disordered eating” patterns. Despite these challenges, Fishel emphasized her commitment to “lean into the experience” and channel her emotions into the performance.
Quotes and Reactions: Support from Louis van Amstel
Former DWTS professional Louis van Amstel offered words of encouragement during the discussion, telling Fishel, “You can take the nerves and give up, or you take the nerves and switch on, use the adrenaline and say, ‘People at home, watch this.’”
Fishel thanked Van Amstel for his guidance, saying his perspective helped her “wake up” after a difficult week. She acknowledged that while the emotional process has been taxing, it has also been “transformative,” strengthening her resolve to perform authentically.
How It Shapes DWTS Week 7
Fishel’s vulnerability and transparency have drawn attention from both fans and critics as DWTS enters Week 7. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame theme is expected to showcase high-intensity performances, and her emotional interpretation of Dream On could stand out among the night’s routines.
Analysts note that contestants who connect emotionally with audiences often receive higher engagement and stronger judges’ scores. Fishel’s willingness to share her struggles may position her as a leading contender for the semifinals, depending on viewer votes and overall execution.
DWTS Continues on Disney+ and ABC
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night episode of Dancing with the Stars will air Tuesday at 8/7c on Disney+ and ABC, with next-day streaming available on Hulu.
Fishel’s performance to Dream On by Aerosmith is anticipated to be one of the evening’s highlights, marking a pivotal moment in her DWTS journey. Fans are eager to see how her emotional honesty translates on the dance floor.
Sources
Dancing with the Stars, Disney+ and ABC Broadcast Schedule
Danielle with the Stars Podcast, November 2, 2025 Episode
Interview with Louis van Amstel
Official DWTS social media and ABC press materials
