Danielle Fishel reunited with her ‘Boy Meets World’ co-star William Daniels, 98, for a special performance on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ dedication night, dancing to the show’s iconic theme song in an emotional tribute that brought together cast members from the beloved sitcom.
During the October 14, 2025, episode, Fishel and her partner Pasha Pashkov performed a jive to the ‘Boy Meets World’ theme, with Daniels making a surprise appearance on stage. The routine was dedicated to Daniels, who played the wise teacher Mr. Feeny, and served as a heartfelt thank you for his mentorship over the years. Daniels sat at a teacher’s desk holding a paper with an ‘A+’ grade, symbolizing his role, while Fishel and Pashkov danced around him, incorporating nostalgic elements from the series that resonated with fans.
The ballroom audience included several ‘Boy Meets World’ alumni, such as Will Friedle (Eric Matthews), Betsy Randle (Amy Matthews), William Russ (Alan Matthews), Trina McGee (Angela Moore), Bonnie Bartlett (Lila Bolander and Daniels’ wife), and Alex Désert (Eli Williams). Their presence added to the reunion atmosphere, with fans cheering as the cast shared the moment, creating a warm and supportive environment that highlighted the enduring bonds formed during the show’s original run.
Judges praised the performance’s storytelling and energy. Bruno Tonioli called it a pitch for ‘Boy Meets World the Musical’ and awarded Fishel her first eight of the season, contributing to a total score of 29 out of 40. Derek Hough and guest judge Kym Johnson echoed the enthusiasm, though Carrie Ann Inaba offered criticism about repetition, which was met with audience disapproval. Despite this, Fishel maintained a positive attitude, telling cohost Julianne Hough that she always has fun, sometimes forgetting she’s supposed to be dancing.
In a pre-recorded message, Daniels expressed pride in Fishel’s growth from a young actress to a mother and professional, highlighting the impact of their roles on fans. He noted that it’s rewarding to hear from thousands of fans about his influence as Mr. Feeny and that the entire cast continues to love each other. Fishel, on her podcast, described the dance as a way to honor Daniels’ inspiration and the show’s role in her life, calling it a ‘second act’ in her career at 44 years old.
‘Boy Meets World’ aired from 1993 to 2000 on ABC, becoming a cultural touchstone for its portrayal of adolescence and mentorship. The cast later reunited for the spinoff ‘Girl Meets World’ from 2014 to 2017, further cementing their bond. Daniels’ continued involvement, even at 98, underscores the enduring legacy of the series and its characters, with Fishel noting his ongoing participation in conventions and events as a testament to his dedication.
This reunion not only delighted fans but also highlighted the lasting connections formed through television. Fishel’s journey on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ continues, with this performance marking a memorable milestone that could inspire future tributes or reunions in the entertainment industry, showcasing how classic shows can bridge generations and reinforce the power of storytelling.