On Dancing With the Stars Season 34, Danielle Fishel gave one of the most heartfelt performances of the season with a moving tribute to her longtime mentor and friend, William Daniels. The Oct. 14 episode, themed “Dedication Night,” asked each celebrity to honor someone who had shaped their life. Fishel, remembered by fans as Topanga from Boy Meets World, chose Daniels, the man who played the wise and beloved Mr. Feeny.
As Yahoo! Entertainment reported, the 98-year-old actor didn’t just watch from the audience—he joined the performance. Fishel and her partner, Pasha Pashkov, danced a lively jive to the Boy Meets World theme song. The crowd erupted when William Daniels appeared on stage, bringing back memories of Feeny’s warm guidance and the lessons that defined a generation of viewers.
William Daniels’ Enduring Impact
Before the performance, Fishel shared that her dance was a personal “thank you” to William Daniels for his influence and encouragement over the years. She described him as a guiding force in her career and life. Her Boy Meets World castmates watched proudly as she honored their shared legacy.
Afterward, Daniels told Variety that watching Fishel grow “as an actress, student, mother, and director” had been one of his greatest joys. He added that countless fans have told him how Mr. Feeny inspired them during their youth. For both Fishel and William Daniels, the night was a celebration of mentorship, friendship, and the lasting bond between teacher and student.
A Night Of Nostalgia And Connection
The episode sparked emotional reactions online as fans shared memories of learning life lessons from Mr. Feeny. Many said they were moved to tears seeing William Daniels return to the spotlight, reminding them of the heart of Boy Meets World.
For Fishel, the tribute was a full-circle moment that showed how far she’s come since her early days on set. For viewers, it was a touching reunion with a teacher who still feels like family. Dancing With the Stars proved nostalgia connects generations—one heartfelt dance at a time.