Mr. Feeny Gives ‘A+’ Performance: William Daniels, 98, Makes Surprise Appearance on Dancing with the Stars
In a moment of pure, heartwarming nostalgia, beloved actor William Daniels, 98, best known to a generation as the sage and stern teacher Mr. Feeny from the iconic sitcom Boy Meets World, made a surprise appearance on the latest episode of Dancing with the Stars (DWTS).
The special cameo was part of “Dedication Week” and served as a touching tribute to Daniels by his former co-star, Danielle Fishel, who played Topanga Lawrence on the show and is a current contestant on DWTS.
A Classroom Reunion and an A+ Performance
The ballroom was instantly transported back to the halls of John Adams High as Fishel and her professional partner, Pasha Pashkov, performed a lively jive set to the unmistakable Boy Meets World theme song.
The routine began with Daniels, looking dapper at 98, standing at a teacher’s desk, perfectly recreating his iconic on-screen persona. Fishel and Pashkov then popped out to perform their high-energy dance. The performance concluded with the pair running back to Daniels, who was now seated at the desk, holding up a piece of paper marked with a familiar red “A+”—a clear nod to Fishel’s famously studious character.
A Tribute to a Lifelong Mentor
Before the dance, Fishel shared an emotional pre-taped segment, explaining the profound impact Daniels has had on her life since they first met more than three decades ago when she was just 12. She described him as a mentor and an inspiration.
“He treated me like I was his equal when I was just 12,” Fishel said. “I wouldn’t be the professional I am today without him.”
Daniels, who had previously won two Emmy Awards, showed his enduring affection for his former protégé. When asked about Fishel’s journey on the show, he offered sweet words of encouragement, saying, “I’m very proud of Danielle for all she’s doing. It’s a pleasure watching you.”
The entire segment was a massive highlight of the night, resonating deeply with fans and the studio audience—which included several other members of the original Boy Meets World cast—who erupted in cheers and applause for the emotional reunion.
The performance not only earned praise for its energy and sentiment but also helped Fishel achieve a high score from the judges, proving that even at 98, Mr. Feeny still holds the power to inspire an A-grade effort.
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