A Professional Dancer’s Rise to Fame
Daniella Brittany Karagach Pashkova is a renowned American professional dancer and choreographer. Born on December 26, 1992, she has made a name for herself in the world of dance through her impressive performances on Dancing with the Stars.
She began her career in dancesport and gained popularity alongside her husband, Pasha Pashkov, on the second season of World of Dance. Her age and talent have been key factors in her success, making her one of the most accomplished professional dancers on Dancing with the Stars. With a strong family backing her, she has achieved significant milestones, including winning her third season with basketball player Iman Shumpert and receiving a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.
Who is Daniella Karagach?
Daniella Karagach is a renowned professional dancer known for her exceptional skills in ballroom and Latin dance styles. She has established herself as a leading figure in the dance world, particularly in the realm of competitive ballroom dancing.
Professional Background
Daniella Karagach began her career in dancesport at the age of eleven when she formed a dance partnership with Leonid Juashkovsky. Together, they achieved significant success, becoming three-time USA Dance Junior I and II Latin Champions. They represented the U.S. at various international competitions, including the IDSF World Championships in Latvia, Russia, and Barcelona. In 2009, Karagach paired with Pavel “Pasha” Pashkov, with whom she has won numerous titles, including seven-time U.S. 10-Dance Champions and Latin Champions.
Rise to Fame
Karagach’s rise to fame was marked by her success in competitive dancing, particularly with her partner Pasha Pashkov. They won the Rising Star Professional Championship at the 2017 Blackpool Dance Festival and the 2018 U.S. Latin American Showdance Championship. Their talents were showcased on television when they competed on the second season of World of Dance in 2018. Additionally, Karagach has choreographed for So You Think You Can Dance in 2022, further establishing her credentials as a versatile and accomplished professional dancer in the world of dance and ballroom dancing.
Her expertise and charisma have made her a respected figure among her peers and a favorite among people who appreciate the art of dance. As a result, she has become a prominent figure in the show business, particularly after joining Dancing with the Stars, one of the most popular dancing stars competitions in the world.
Early Life and Background
The story of Daniella Karagach’s early life is one of resilience and passion, shaped by her family and surroundings. Born on December 26, 1992, in Brooklyn, New York, Daniella Brittany Karagach was the daughter of immigrants from Moldova, Mark Karagach and Regina Yvette Karagach (now Zurinam).
Birth and Family Origins
Daniella Karagach’s parents divorced when she was just one year old, and she was primarily raised as an only child by her mother in the Forest Hills and Bath Beach neighborhoods of New York. Her mother’s subsequent marriage to Arie Zurinam introduced a stepsister, Ariana, into her life. As she grew older, Daniella moved to South Beach, Staten Island, experiencing different environments that contributed to her diverse upbringing.
Childhood and Education
Daniella began taking ballet lessons at the age of three, and by seven, she was enrolled in Latin dance classes. At six years old, she was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but instead of medication, her mother enrolled her in ballroom dance classes, which significantly helped her focus and improve her academic performance. Despite the challenges posed by ADHD, Daniella excelled academically, enrolling in honors and advanced placement programs. She graduated from Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School and went on to study childhood education at the City University of New York, the College of Staten Island.
Her early introduction to dancing laid the foundation for her future career as a professional dancer. The discipline and focus she developed through dance classes were instrumental in her academic achievements and personal growth.
| Age | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 3 | Began ballet lessons |
| 6 | Diagnosed with ADHD |
| 7 | Started Latin dance classes |
Daniella Karagach’s early life experiences, from her family background to her introduction to dance, played a crucial role in shaping her into the person she is today. At years old, she was already on the path to a successful dancing career, surrounded by people who supported her endeavors and helped her navigate various things life presented.
Physical Attributes
Daniella Karagach’s physical attributes play a crucial role in her success as a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars. Her physique is well-suited for the demands of ballroom dancing, which requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal.
Height and Body Measurements
Daniella Karagach’s height and body measurements are key factors in her dancing ability. Her height allows her to perform lifts and movements with ease, making her a versatile partner on the show. The proportions of her body are in line with the aesthetic requirements of dance performances on Dancing with the Stars, contributing to her overall visual appeal.
Weight and Fitness Routine
Maintaining an optimal weight is crucial for Daniella Karagach’s dance performances. She achieves this through a rigorous fitness routine that includes strength training and flexibility exercises. This regimen not only helps her feel like she’s at her best physically but also enables her to execute complex choreography with precision. Several things contribute to her fitness, including a balanced diet and regular practice.
Her physical conditioning is essential for performing challenging choreography and lifts with partners of various sizes. Even during significant life events like pregnancy and postpartum recovery, Daniella adapted her training to maintain her professional dance career. The importance of strength and flexibility in her dance style cannot be overstated, as these attributes allow her to create memorable performances.
Age and Personal Details
Born on December 26, 1992, Daniella Karagach has achieved remarkable success in the dance world. As a Capricorn, she embodies traits such as discipline and a strong work ethic, which are evident in her professional dance career.
Birthday and Zodiac Sign
Daniella Karagach was born on December 26, 1992, making her a Capricorn. People born under this sign are known for their ambition and practicality, characteristics that have likely contributed to her accomplishments in the competitive dance industry.
Current Age and Milestones
As of the current year, Daniella Karagach is in her early thirties. At a relatively young age, she has accomplished significant milestones, including becoming a professional dancer, getting married, and becoming a mother. Her age has been an advantage in her physically demanding career, allowing her to connect with younger celebrity partners on Dancing with the Stars.
Key Milestones:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1992 | Born on December 26th |
| Early 20s | Began professional dance career |
| Late 20s/Early 30s | Joined Dancing with the Stars, got married, and became a mother |
Her perspective as a millennial dancer influences her choreographic choices and teaching style, bringing fresh energy to the show. Balancing career responsibilities with personal life milestones typical for someone her age, Daniella Karagach serves as an inspiration to many young dancers and fans.
Daniella Karagach’s Dance Career
Daniella Karagach’s illustrious dance career is a testament to her dedication and passion for the art form. With a strong foundation in various dance styles, she has risen to prominence in the competitive dance world.
Early Dance Training
Daniella Karagach began her dance journey at the age of three with ballet training, which laid the groundwork for her future success. At seven, she started Latin dance training, further diversifying her skill set. Her early start and diverse training helped shape her technique and prepared her for the demands of competitive dancing.
By the time she was eleven, Karagach had formed a professional dance partnership with Leonid Juashkovsky. Together, they achieved significant milestones, including becoming three-time USA Dance Junior I and II Latin Champions. This partnership marked the beginning of her competitive career in dancesport.
Professional Achievements Before DWTS
In January 2009, Karagach paired with Pavel “Pasha” Pashkov, a partnership that would transform both her personal and professional life. Together, they represented the U.S. at the 2009 World Games in Taiwan and participated in various international competitions and festivals. Their achievements were impressive, earning them seven-time U.S. 10-Dance Champions and Latin Champions titles.
Some of their notable achievements include:
- Winning the Rising Star Professional Championship at the prestigious 2017 Blackpool Dance Festival
- Securing the 2018 U.S. Latin American Showdance Championship
- Representing the U.S. at the IDSF World Championships in Latvia, Russia, and Barcelona
- Appearing in the second and third seasons of America’s Ballroom Challenge
Karagach and Pashkov’s partnership not only brought them success in the competitive dance world but also prepared them for their future endeavors, including their appearances on Dancing with the Stars.
Their television appearances before Dancing with the Stars, including shows like America’s Ballroom Challenge and World of Dance, helped hone their skills and readiness for mainstream television success. As a couple, they have been a formidable team, both on and off the dance floor, making significant contributions to the world of ballroom dance.
Dancing with the Stars Journey
As a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars, Daniella Karagach has made a significant impact since joining the show in season 28. Initially, she was part of the troupe without a celebrity partner, which allowed her to learn the show’s format and dynamics.
Joining the Show
Daniella Karagach joined Dancing with the Stars in season 28 as a professional dancer. Although she didn’t have a celebrity partner that season, being part of the troupe helped her understand the show’s intricacies and prepare for future partnerships.
Season-by-Season Performance
For season 29, Karagach was paired with rapper and singer Nelly. They made it to the finals and placed third on November 23, 2020, establishing Karagach as a formidable competitor. In season 30, she was paired with basketball player Iman Shumpert, and despite a shaky start, they won the competition on November 22, 2021.
Karagach and Shumpert’s contemporary piece to “I Got 5 on It (Tethered Mix)” for Halloween week was particularly noteworthy, receiving critical acclaim and being hailed as one of the best dances in the series’ history. For her work on season 30, Karagach received her first nomination for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography.
| Season | Celebrity Partner | Placement | Notable Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29 | Nelly | 3rd | Finals Performance |
| 30 | Iman Shumpert | Winner | Halloween Week Contemporary |
| 31 | Joseph Baena | 11th | – |
| 32 | Jason Mraz | Runners-up | Finals Performance |
| 33 | Dwight Howard | 6th | – |
| 34 | Dylan Efron | – | – |
Championship with Iman Shumpert
Karagach and Shumpert’s journey in season 30 was remarkable. They faced challenges early on but improved significantly over the season, culminating in their historic win. Their contemporary routine for Halloween week was a standout performance, praised by both critics and viewers.
Throughout her journey on Dancing with the Stars, Daniella Karagach has demonstrated her versatility, skill, and dedication to her craft. From her early days as a troupe member to her championship win and subsequent seasons, she has remained a compelling figure on the show.
Notable Performances and Choreography
Daniella Karagach’s Dancing with the Stars journey is marked by numerous standout performances that have captivated audiences and critics alike. Her choreographic work has been a significant factor in the show’s success, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in dance television.
Iconic Dances
One of Karagach’s most memorable performances was her contemporary piece to “I Got 5 on It (Tethered Mix)” with Iman Shumpert during Halloween week of season 30. This dance received perfect scores from the judges and was hailed as one of the best in the series’ history. The routine showcased Karagach’s innovative approach to choreography, particularly in how she utilized the height difference between her and Shumpert to create a visually stunning performance.
Other notable performances include her freestyle dance with Iman Shumpert that secured their victory in the season, as well as a perfect-scoring Argentine tango with Jason Mraz. These performances demonstrate Karagach’s versatility as a choreographer and her ability to adapt to different dance styles and partner dynamics.
Emmy Nomination
For her work on season 30 of Dancing with the Stars, Karagach received her first nomination for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography. This recognition highlights her exceptional creative work and the impact she has had on the show. The nomination is a testament to her skill in blending traditional ballroom techniques with contemporary influences and creative lifts, creating a unique and captivating style that has raised the bar for choreography on the show.
| Performance | Partner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Contemporary | Iman Shumpert | Perfect |
| Freestyle | Iman Shumpert | High |
| Argentine Tango | Jason Mraz | Perfect |
Karagach’s choreographic style not only showcases her technical expertise but also her ability to highlight her partners’ strengths while challenging them to grow as dancers. Her work has influenced the show’s choreographic standards, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on Dancing with the Stars and inspiring future seasons.
Marriage to Pasha Pashkov
The journey of Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov together began with their introduction through their dance coaches, marking the start of a lifelong partnership. Their meeting was facilitated by their shared passion for dance, which would later become the foundation of their relationship.
How They Met
Daniella Karagach was introduced to Russian professional dancer Pasha Pashkov when she was 16 years old, and he was 22. Although they met at this young age, they didn’t start dating until Karagach turned 18 in 2010. Their introduction through dance coaches laid the groundwork for a relationship that would blossom amidst their training and shared love for dance.
Wedding and Relationship
Pashkov proposed to Karagach on January 1, 2012, and they got married on July 18, 2014. Their wedding marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, both personally and professionally. The couple has since become a formidable team, both on and off the dance floor. Their love and commitment to each other have been a stable foundation amidst the demanding world of professional dance and reality television.
Working Together
Karagach and Pashkov have not only shared their life together but have also collaborated professionally. In 2020, they launched an online dance program designed to help engaged couples prepare for their first dance. This venture combined their expertise in dance with their understanding of the significance of this special moment in a couple’s life. To commemorate their eleventh wedding anniversary, Karagach and Pashkov renewed their vows in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on July 19, 2025, reaffirming their love and commitment to each other.
Family Life
With the birth of her daughter, Nikita Sofia Pashkova, Daniella Karagach embarked on a journey of motherhood while continuing her work on “Dancing with the Stars.” This new chapter in her life has brought significant changes, intertwining her personal and professional worlds.
Becoming Parents
Daniella Karagach and her husband, Pasha Pashkov, faced a challenging journey to parenthood. After discovering they were pregnant in July 2022, they suffered a miscarriage at five weeks gestation. Four months later, they announced they were expecting again, this time a “rainbow baby.” Their daughter, Nikita Sofia Pashkova, was born on May 30, 2023. The name Nikita Sofia holds special significance, reflecting the couple’s cultural heritage and personal preferences.
Balancing Career and Motherhood
Balancing her demanding career on “Dancing with the Stars” with motherhood has been a significant challenge for Daniella Karagach. She continued to perform on the show during season 32 while pregnant and returned for season 33 just months after giving birth. This required careful planning and a strong support system, including her husband Pasha Pashkov, who also works on the show. Managing childcare with their intense rehearsal schedules has been a logistical challenge, but they have adapted to their new roles as parents.
Motherhood has also influenced Daniella Karagach’s perspective as a dancer, choreographer, and mentor. Her experiences as a mother have brought new insights into her work, allowing her to connect with her celebrity partners on a different level. As she navigates this new chapter, Daniella Karagach continues to excel in her career, making her one of the standout professionals on “Dancing with the Stars.”
Net Worth and Financial Success
Daniella Karagach’s rise to financial success is closely tied to her achievements on “Dancing with the Stars” and her entrepreneurial ventures in the dance industry. As a professional dancer on the show, she has not only gained fame but also significantly increased her earnings.
Income Sources
Daniella Karagach’s income is diversified across various streams. Her primary source of income is her salary as a “Dancing with the Stars” professional dancer, which has likely increased with her longevity on the show. Additionally, she earns through dance instruction, choreographing for other productions, and making appearances at dance events. The online dance program she launched with her husband, Pasha Pashkov, to help engaged couples prepare for their first dance, represents another lucrative business venture.
Her success on “Dancing with the Stars,” including winning the show with Iman Shumpert, has undoubtedly boosted her market value. Furthermore, receiving an Emmy nomination has likely contributed to an increase in her earning potential. These achievements have positioned her as a leading figure in the dance community, allowing her to capitalize on various opportunities.
Estimated Net Worth
While the exact figure of Daniella Karagach’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, it is possible to estimate it based on her years in the industry, her success on “Dancing with the Stars,” and her other business ventures. As a professional dancer on a popular reality TV show, she is among the higher earners in her field. The reality TV landscape has created new financial opportunities for dancers that were previously unavailable.
Comparing her financial success to other professional dancers on “Dancing with the Stars,” Daniella Karagach is likely among the top earners due to her sustained presence on the show and her additional business ventures. The financial opportunities available to professional dancers today, particularly through reality TV shows like “Dancing with the Stars,” have significantly expanded, allowing talented individuals like Karagach to build successful and lucrative careers.
Recent Activities and Future Plans
As the spotlight shines on Dancing with the Stars Season 34, Daniella Karagach is making waves alongside her partner Dylan Efron. The brother of actor Zac Efron, Dylan won The Traitors, bringing a unique competitive edge to their partnership.
Current Season of DWTS
Daniella Karagach and Dylan Efron have been delivering impressive performances week after week. Their scores have been consistently high, with the judges praising their chemistry and dance skills. As they continue in the competition, their chances of making it to the finale look promising.
The dynamic between Karagach and Efron has been a key factor in their success. Karagach has been adapting her teaching and choreographic style to Efron’s abilities and personality, resulting in captivating routines that have wowed both the judges and the audience.
Upcoming Projects
As the current season of Dancing with the Stars progresses, fans are eagerly speculating about Karagach’s future plans. Whether she will return for future seasons or embark on new projects remains to be seen. However, her recent interviews hint at potential business ventures and tours on the horizon.
| Partner | Score | Notable Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Dylan Efron | High scores consistently | Week 5: Argentine Tango |
| Dylan Efron | Judge’s praise | Week 3: Contemporary |
With her experience and talent, Daniella Karagach is poised to continue making significant contributions to the world of dance, both on and off the stage of Dancing with the Stars.
Conclusion
Having won the hearts of audiences and judges alike, Daniella Karagach has established herself as a leading figure in the world of ballroom dance. Her journey from a young dancer in Brooklyn to becoming a Dancing with the Stars champion and Emmy-nominated choreographer is a testament to her dedication and talent.
Daniella’s achievements on Dancing with the Stars are noteworthy, particularly her victory with Iman Shumpert in season 30 and her runner-up finish with Jason Mraz in season 32. Her ability to work with partners of different heights and abilities has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on the show, showcasing her innovative choreography.
Beyond her professional success, Daniella’s personal growth from a competitive ballroom dancer to a television personality is remarkable. She has balanced her career with her personal life, including her marriage to Pasha Pashkov and becoming a parent. Their partnership extends beyond the dance floor, demonstrating a strong bond both on and off stage.
Daniella’s impact on Dancing with the Stars has been significant, contributing to the show’s evolution in recent seasons. As a professional dancer and choreographer, she has set a high standard for her peers. Her legacy in the world of dance and reality television continues to grow, with a bright future ahead.
As Daniella Karagach continues to dance and choreograph, her influence on the world of dance is expected to endure. With her talent, love for dance, and charismatic stage presence, she is sure to remain a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.
