Danielle Fishel understands family dynamics well.
After her recent appearance on “Dancing with the Stars,” she shared her thoughts about how her loved ones have impacted her journey in Hollywood, especially given their own early fame.
“My family has really kept me grounded,” she mentioned when speaking to FOX News Digital, standing alongside her dance partner Pasha Pashkov. Fishel explained, “They didn’t need me to work, but they supported me in doing it because it was what I wanted. So they made sure I came home and did things like pick up dog poop in the backyard.”
Reflecting on her childhood in the industry, Fishel, known for her role as Topanga on “Boy Meets World,” shared that her upbringing included chores like making her bed every morning, but she didn’t get to experience things like teenage nightclubs.
She gained fame at just 12 years old, starring on the show for seven years. Fishel added that her close circle of friends from high school helped keep her grounded during her ascent to stardom.
Her mother once told her, “‘If you ever want to stop, just say the word, and I’ll turn this car around faster than you can imagine.'” Fishel reflects on this advice often, especially when she feels tempted to take her career for granted. “My mom always reminds me that this was once my dream. If it stops feeling like a dream, then it’s time to step back. But for now, it still feels like a dream, so I keep going,” the actress stated.
Recently, Fishel performed “No Good Deed” from *Wicked*, earning an impressive score of 36 out of 40. She credited Pasha for helping her build confidence, stating, “He really challenges me, and I’m thankful for that.”
Feeling more at ease with her body, she noted, “I think I’m getting a better handle on things throughout the day and night. Even when the choreography is tough, I feel my confidence is definitely growing with each passing week.”
Fishel shared her determination to rise to challenges, recalling how Pasha encouraged her to push her limits instead of opting for easier routines. “He believed in my ability, and I wanted to match that,” she said.
In terms of dedication, she mentioned that she practices for about four hours daily, underscoring her commitment to improving on the dance floor.
