Daniella Karagach is a famous American ballroom dancer and choreographer. She is best known for her stunning performances on Dancing with the Stars. Her talent, dedication and graceful moves have earned her national and international recognition.
Fans often wonder about Daniella Karagach’s height because it plays a key role in her dance performances. Standing at 5’3″, she skillfully partners with taller celebrities on the show. Discovering how her height influences her routines makes her story even more fascinating.
Quick Facts About Daniella Karagach
| Fact | Details |
| Full Name | Daniella Brittany Karagach Pashkova |
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1992 |
| Age | 32 years old |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Height | 5’3″ (1.60 m) |
| Occupation | Professional ballroom dancer and choreographer |
| Husband | Pasha Pashkov (married 2014) |
| Children | Daughter: Nikita Sofia Pashkova (born May 30, 2023) |
| Education | College of Staten Island, studied Childhood Education |
| Nationality | American |
| Online Ventures | The Wedding Dance School (online dance program) |
Early Life and Background (1992–2009)
Born on December 26, 1992, Daniella Karagach grew up in Brooklyn, New York. Her parents, Mark Karagach and Regina Yvette Karagach, moved from Moldova. She spent her childhood in Forest Hills and Bath Beach neighborhoods. Daniella started ballet at age three and learned Latin dance at seven. Her ADHD diagnosis led her mother to encourage dance training instead of medicine, helping her focus and develop discipline.
During school, Daniella joined honors programs and showed creativity and energy. She trained with Leonid Juashkovsky at eleven. Competitions in Latin and ballroom dance shaped her early career. These years prepared her for national and international recognition.
Childhood and Family Origins
Daniella Karagach grew up in Brooklyn, New York with her Moldovan immigrant parents, Mark and Regina Karagach. Her parents divorced early, leaving her mother to raise her alone.
She later gained a stepfather, Arie Zurinam, and a stepsister, Ariana. Her family and cultural heritage shaped her values, resilience and strong connection to dance.
Daniella Karagach Professional Dance Career (2009–2019)
Daniella Karagach started her professional dance career in 2009. She trained in Latin and ballroom dance every day. She won many national competitions and traveled internationally for dance championships. Her hard work built skills, confidence and fame.
She partnered with Pasha Pashkov and earned major titles, including U.S. 10-Dance Champion and Blackpool Dance Festival Rising Star. She appeared on World of Dance and America’s Ballroom Challenge, gaining recognition for her precision, grace and creativity in competitive and performance dance.
Major Titles and International Recognition
- Seven-time United States 10-Dance Champion
- Three-time USA Dance Junior Latin Champion
- 2017 Blackpool Dance Festival Rising Star Professional Champion
- 2018 U.S. Latin American Showdance Championship winner
- Represented the United States in multiple international dance competitions
- Competed in World Championships in Latvia, Russia, and Barcelona
- Appeared on NBC’s World of Dance season 2
- Featured on America’s Ballroom Challenge television series
Daniella Karagach Dancing with the Stars Journey (2019–Present)
Daniella Karagach joined Dancing with the Stars in 2019. She started as a professional dancer in season 28. Her talent and choreography skills impressed judges and audiences. She danced with many celebrity partners and earned recognition for her creativity and performance quality.
Her major achievement came in season 30 with basketball player Iman Shumpert. They won the Mirrorball Trophy. Daniella also received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Choreography. Her journey shows dedication, skill and influence in television dance competitions.
DWTS Debut and Early Seasons
Daniella Karagach made her DWTS debut in season 28. She joined as a troupe member to learn the show’s format. Her dance skills and stage presence impressed the audience and judges, preparing her for celebrity partnerships in future seasons.
In season 29, she partnered with rapper Nelly. They reached the finals and finished third. This early success showed her adaptability and choreography talent, earning respect from fans and professionals alike. It set the stage for her future achievements on Dancing with the Stars.
Winning the Mirrorball Trophy
In season 30, Daniella Karagach partnered with basketball player Iman Shumpert. Their teamwork and dance routines impressed judges and fans alike.
They won the Mirrorball Trophy, making Shumpert the first NBA player to win Dancing with the Stars. Daniella also earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for her choreography.
Notable Celebrity Partners
- Nelly – Season 29
- Iman Shumpert – Season 30
- Joseph Baena – Season 31
- Jason Mraz – Season 32
- Dwight Howard – Season 33
- Dylan Efron – Season 34
Height Insights and DWTS Comparisons
| Celebrity Partner | Height | Daniella Karagach Height | Height Difference | Season | Notes / Highlights |
| Nelly | 5’10” (1.78 m) | 5’3″ (1.60 m) | 7 inches (18 cm) | 29 | Reached finals, placed 3rd |
| Iman Shumpert | 6’5″ (1.96 m) | 5’3″ (1.60 m) | 14 inches (36 cm) | 30 | Won Mirrorball Trophy, Emmy nomination |
| Joseph Baena | 6’1″ (1.85 m) | 5’3″ (1.60 m) | 10 inches (25 cm) | 31 | Eliminated 11th place |
| Jason Mraz | 5’8″ (1.73 m) | 5’3″ (1.60 m) | 5 inches (13 cm) | 32 | Runners-up |
| Dwight Howard | 6’10” (2.08 m) | 5’3″ (1.60 m) | 19 inches (48 cm) | 33 | Known for big height difference |
| Dylan Efron | 5’9″ (1.75 m) | 5’3″ (1.60 m) | 6 inches (15 cm) | 34 | Season ongoing |
Daniella Karagach Height in Feet, Meters, and CM
- Feet: 5’3″
- Meters: 1.60 m
- Centimeters: 160 cm
Personal Life and Relationship Timeline
Daniella Karagach met Pasha Pashkov in 2009. She was sixteen, and he was twenty-two. They started practicing together for dance competitions. Their professional partnership grew into a strong personal relationship over time.
Later, Pasha proposed on New Year’s Day 2012. They married on July 18, 2014. Their relationship combines love, teamwork, and dance. Together, they manage professional projects, TV appearances, and family life. Their story shows how partnership and dedication can grow both on stage and in life.
Timeline – How Daniella Met Pasha
Daniella Karagach met Pasha Pashkov in January 2009. She was sixteen and he was twenty-two. Their first dance tryout lasted only twenty minutes. They felt a strong connection immediately and began practicing together for competitions.
Over time, their friendship grew into a romantic relationship. They shared a passion for dance and teamwork. This early bond laid the foundation for their long-term partnership, both professionally and personally, shaping their journey in competitions and life together.
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Engagement and Marriage
Pasha Pashkov proposed to Daniella Karagach on New Year’s Day 2012. She happily accepted and they planned their wedding together. Their engagement reflected their love and shared commitment to dance and life.
They married on July 18, 2014, in New Jersey. Their marriage celebrates teamwork, romance and partnership. Together, they balance professional careers and personal happiness, supporting each other on and off the dance floor.
Daniella Karagach Motherhood Journey
Daniella Karagach experienced challenges and joy on her motherhood journey. In July 2022, she discovered her first pregnancy but faced a miscarriage at five weeks. This period tested her resilience and patience. She focused on recovery with support from Pasha Pashkov and family, showing courage and determination.
Four months later, she and Pasha announced a new pregnancy. Their daughter, Nikita Sofia Pashkova, was born on May 30, 2023. Balancing career, dance rehearsals and parenting, Daniella demonstrates strength, love and dedication, inspiring other working parents and dancers worldwide.
Pregnancy Loss and Recovery
- In July 2022, Daniella Karagach discovered she was pregnant.
- She experienced a miscarriage at five weeks.
- The loss was emotional and challenging for both her and Pasha Pashkov.
- Daniella focused on healing physically and mentally.
- She received strong support from her family and spouse.
- This period taught her resilience, patience and determination.
- Daniella shared her experience to inspire others facing similar struggles.
Welcoming Her Rainbow Baby
Four months after her loss, Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov announced a new pregnancy. Their daughter, Nikita Sofia Pashkova, was born on May 30, 2023.
The family celebrated this joyful moment with love. Daniella described Nikita as sweet, cheerful and full of personality.
Business Ventures and Current Projects
Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov run multiple business ventures. They founded The Wedding Dance School, collaborated with brands and created online programs. Their projects combine dance, education and entrepreneurship, inspiring dancers worldwide while managing DWTS careers.
| Business Venture / Project | Description | Timeline |
| The Wedding Dance School | Online program for engaged couples to learn dance | 2020–Present |
| Brand Collaborations | Partnerships with fashion and lifestyle brands | 2020–2025 |
| Online Dance Programs | Training for aspiring dancers globally | 2020–Present |
| DWTS Choreography | Choreographing routines for TV competition | 2019–Present |
The Wedding Dance School
Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov started The Wedding Dance School to help couples learn dance easily. The program teaches ballroom, Latin dance and choreography step by step, making first dances memorable and fun.
Many couples enjoy personalized guidance and tips from Daniella and Pasha. The school helps students gain confidence, improve skills and enjoy dance education. It also strengthens their reputation as trusted dance instructors and inspires aspiring dancers worldwide.
Net Worth and Financial Overview
Daniella Karagach has earned wealth through Dancing with the Stars, competitive dance, choreography and business ventures. Her income comes from multiple sources, including brand collaborations, sponsorships and her online Wedding Dance School, reflecting a successful and balanced career.
| Aspect | Details |
| Profession | Professional dancer, choreographer |
| TV Appearances | Dancing with the Stars |
| Business | The Wedding Dance School |
| Sponsorships | Dancewear brands, lifestyle collaborations |
| Net Worth | Estimated from career and ventures |
| Income Sources | TV, competitions, online programs, brand partnerships |
Income Sources
| Income Source | Details |
| Dancing with the Stars | Professional dancer and celebrity routines |
| Competitive Dance Winnings | National and international dance competitions |
| Choreography | TV shows and special performances |
| The Wedding Dance School | Online programs and tutorials |
| Brand Collaborations | Partnerships with dance, fashion, and lifestyle brands |
| Sponsorships | Endorsements and social media campaigns |
Sponsorships and Endorsements
- DWTS / ABC Network – Ongoing professional dancer appearances and promotional campaigns
- Dancewear Brands – Multiple sponsorships and endorsements for dance clothing and accessories
- Social Media Campaigns – Collaborations with lifestyle and fitness brands (2020–2025)
- The Wedding Dance School – Founder promotions and brand partnerships
- Fashion & Lifestyle Brands – Collaborations to expand visibility and influence in the dance community
Social Media Presence
Daniella Karagach engages fans globally through her active social channels and shares behind‑the‑scenes looks, dance clips, and family moments. Her influence grows steadily as she connects with audiences across platforms.
| Platform | Username (linked) | Followers |
| @daniellakaragach | ~794K followers | |
| X (Twitter) | @DKaragach | ~12.2K followers |
Recent Milestones and Celebrations
- Renewed wedding vows with husband Pasha Pashkov after 11 years of marriage in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
- Returned to competition just three months after giving birth to daughter Nikita Sofia Pashkova, demonstrating her commitment and resilience.
- Shared publicly her miscarriage experience from July 2022, turning a personal challenge into a platform for support and awareness.
10th Wedding Anniversary
In July 2024, Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary. They marked the milestone with joyful family activities at Six Flags Magic Mountain.
Their daughter Nikita Sofia Pashkova joined the celebrations. The day reflected love, teamwork and family happiness, highlighting their strong bond and shared journey in life and dance.
Physical Characteristics and Personal Details
Daniella Karagach has a graceful and athletic appearance. Her height is 5’3″ (1.60 m), which suits her ballroom and Latin dance performances. She keeps fit with daily ballet and Latin training, along with cardio and strength exercises.
Her personal style is elegant and modern. Stage costumes highlight her athletic physique. Off-stage, she wears comfortable, chic outfits. Daniella focuses on fitness, health and fashion, balancing her professional life and family commitments while inspiring fans with her poise and charm.
Fitness and Diet
| Category | Details |
| Dance Training | Daily ballet and Latin dance sessions |
| Cardio Exercises | Regular cardio workouts to maintain stamina |
| Strength Training | Strength exercises for muscles and balance |
| Diet | Balanced meals rich in proteins and vegetables |
| Hydration | Adequate water intake for energy and recovery |
| Rest | Proper sleep and recovery periods to support training and health |
Lifestyle, Legacy and Impact
Daniella Karagach lives a balanced lifestyle. She spends time training, performing and caring for her family. Her days include dance practice, teaching, and engaging with fans online. She enjoys fitness, healthy meals and quality rest.
Her legacy inspires many young dancers. She influences ballroom dance worldwide with creative choreography and dedication. Fans admire her hard work, skill, and determination. Daniella sets an example of balancing career, motherhood and personal growth, making her a respected role model in the dance community.
Influence on Modern Ballroom Dancing
Daniella Karagach brings fresh energy and creativity to modern ballroom dancing. She blends classic Latin and ballroom techniques with innovative moves, making performances exciting and unique.
Her work on Dancing with the Stars sets high standards for choreography and stage presence. Many professional dancers follow her style and take inspiration from her skills.
Dwight Howard & DWTS Partner Daniella Karagach Discuss Height Challenges and Dance Adjustments
Conclusion
Daniella Karagach has built a remarkable career as a ballroom dancer and choreographer. Her talent, dedication, and hard work on Dancing with the Stars have earned her awards, fame, and respect in the dance community. Standing at 5’3″, she proves that skill and passion matter more than height. Her journey shows resilience, creativity, and the power of following one’s dreams, making her a true role model for aspiring dancers worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How tall is Daniella Karagach on DWTS?
Daniella Karagach stands at 5’3″ (1.60 m), making her graceful and agile on the DWTS stage.
Her height complements her ballroom and Latin dance performances beautifully.
What is Daniella Karagach’s age?
She was born on December 26, 1992, making her 32 years old in 2025. Daniella continues to inspire fans with her energy and dedication at this age.
Who is Daniella Karagach’s husband?
Daniella is married to Pasha Pashkov, her professional dance partner and collaborator. They tied the knot on July 18, 2014, blending love with a shared dance career.
Does Daniella Karagach have children?
Yes, she has a daughter named Nikita Sofia Pashkova. Nikita was born on May 30, 2023, bringing joy to Daniella and Pasha’s family.
What is the height difference between Dwight and Daniella?
The height difference between Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach is 1 foot 7 inches. Dwight stands 6’10″, while Daniella is 5’3″, creating a striking DWTS duo.
What dance competitions has Daniella won?
Daniella has won seven United States 10-Dance Championships and three USA Dance Junior Latin Championships. She also claimed titles at the Blackpool Dance Festival and U.S. Latin American Showdance Championship.
What ethnicity is Daniella Karagach?
Daniella Karagach is of Moldovan descent, born to Moldovan immigrant parents. Her heritage shaped her cultural identity and influenced her dance journey.
