Last night’s Dancing With the Stars turned into a heartfelt throwback when Danielle Fishel honored her Boy Meets World roots — and delighted fans by dancing alongside none other than Mr. Feeny, actor William Daniels, in a surprise reunion. EW.com+2People.com+2
A Classroom Turns Into a Ballroom
On the Dedication Night episode of DWTS Season 34, Fishel and her pro partner, Pasha Pashkov, opened the show in a recreated classroom scene. There stood William Daniels, back in his Mr. Feeny role, next to a desk and chalkboard. EW.com+2People.com+2
As the Boy Meets World theme song started to play, Danielle and Pasha popped out and launched into a lively jive. The ballroom erupted with applause when the trio ended the dance in front of Mr. Feeny, culminating in an emotional embrace and the revealing of a red “A+” grade paper. EW.com+2People.com+2
A Tribute Steeped in Gratitude
For Fishel, this was more than a performance — it was a personal tribute. She told viewers how intimidating it was to join Boy Meets World as a 12-year-old, but Daniels treated her with respect and guided her growth. She said she “would not be the professional [actor] I am today” without his influence. EW.com+2People.com+2
In a rehearsal video call, Daniels himself expressed pride in Fishel’s journey: “I’m very proud of Danielle… It’s a pleasure watching you.” EW.com+1
Castmates Answer the Call
Adding to the magic of the night, many Boy Meets World alumni showed up to lend support:
- Will Friedle (Eric Matthews)
- Betsy Randle (Amy Matthews)
- William Russ (Alan Matthews)
- Trina McGee (Angela Moore)
- Alex Désert (Mr. Williams)
- Matthew Lawrence (Jack Hunter)
- Bonnie Bartlett (Daniels’ real-life wife)
Rider Strong (Shawn Hunter) was absent due to prior work commitments, and Ben Savage did not appear. People.com+3Page Six+3EW.com+3
Judges React — and Score
Judges praised the performance for its nostalgia and heart, with Kym Johnson calling Fishel “very effortless.” But they also encouraged sharper edges and more attack in her movement. EW.com
The judges awarded Fishel and Pashkov a score of 29/40. Page Six+2EW.com+2
This extraordinary crossover of reality TV and ’90s sitcom nostalgia reminds us why Boy Meets World still holds a special place in many hearts. Fans watching last night got not just a dance — but a reunion decades in the making.