Carrie Ann Inaba Apologizes to Danielle Fishel for Body Remark

Carrie Ann Inaba Apologizes to Danielle Fishel on DWTS

Carrie Ann Inaba showed her softer side on Dancing With the Stars. During the Nov. 4 episode, the longtime judge took a moment to apologize to Danielle Fishel after realizing her earlier words may have been hurtful.

On Halloween Night, Carrie commented on Danielle’s “tiny little” frame while offering performance feedback. The Boy Meets World alum later admitted that the remark stayed with her, even though she knew no harm was meant.

‘DWTS’ judge Carrie Ann Inaba apologizes to Danielle Fishel for body comment https://t.co/0rLVGngRo3 pic.twitter.com/cX57jNQkxT

— Page Six (@PageSix) November 5, 2025

Danielle Fishel Reflects on Carrie Ann’s Comment

Before returning to the dance floor for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame-themed episode, Danielle spoke candidly about the experience.

“I am a tiny little woman,” she said in a confessional. “But I’m big on the inside—more powerful—so I need to unleash her more often.”

Acknowledging her 5-foot-1 height, Danielle joked about the challenge of “flailing” her body across the ballroom. Her pro partner, Pasha Pashkov, took the feedback seriously and choreographed a contemporary routine to Aerosmith’s Dream On to help her express larger movements.

#DWTS Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night recap: Danielle Fishel sent home in SHOCK elimination after apology from Carrie Ann Inaba. pic.twitter.com/ocDX1fm4Uv

— ExtraTV (@extratv) November 5, 2025

Carrie Ann’s Apology and Emotional Reaction

After Danielle and Pasha’s performance, which earned a solid score of 34, Carrie Ann revisited her earlier words.

“I would like to apologize for my words if they hurt you at all because I didn’t mean that,” Carrie said during the live show. “You are small but you pack a punch, and that’s why I can say it—because I believe in you.”

Danielle quickly reassured her, replying, “I was not offended.” The judge smiled, relieved, and praised the pair for their storytelling and emotion on the dance floor.

“Contemporary is about emotion and storytelling—you told that story beautifully,” Carrie added. “I felt the chills. You transported us.”

Danielle Fishel’s DWTS Journey Comes to an End

Despite the heartfelt moment, Danielle and Pasha were voted out at the end of the episode. Their journey on Season 34 may have ended, but they left the stage with grace and gratitude.

As the competition heats up, fans are eager to see what’s next for the remaining contestants on Dancing With the Stars.

carrie ann inaba having to apologize to a woman contestant nearly every week for her comments should be some kind of red flag to this production #dwts pic.twitter.com/YUkKZ4czWI

— m (@BDavisPSawyer23) November 5, 2025

I’m so devastated for Danielle. She tried so hard and pushed through a hellish week & so much self doubt that’s so real for all girls. She’s never danced before and just always remained such a light. I hate that I won’t see her continue. #DWTS pic.twitter.com/ZddhXTFmaE

— Yanny ⎕ | Missing The Guys (@laurelsnotyanny) November 5, 2025