The Unexpected Power Of 5'3": Unpacking Daniella Karagach's Height, Career, And Recent DWTS Drama

Daniella Karagach, the fiery professional dancer and choreographer best known for her dominant performances on *Dancing With the Stars* (DWTS), has captivated millions with her technical prowess and expressive routines. As of December 2025, the latest buzz around the ballroom involves her recent partnership with Dylan Efron and persistent rumors of on-set tensions, but a question that frequently resurfaces among fans is surprisingly simple: exactly *how tall is Daniella Karagach*? Her stature is often a point of fascination, especially when paired with towering celebrity partners. The answer is that the Moldovan-American dance champion stands at a graceful 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 meters) tall. This height, while modest in the world of professional sports, is perfectly suited for the intricate footwork and dynamic lifts required in Latin and Ballroom dance, allowing her to maintain a low center of gravity and incredible agility. Her relatively small frame, often listed with a weight of around 115 pounds, belies the immense power and athleticism she brings to the DWTS stage, a fact that has become a defining feature of her career.

Daniella Karagach: A Quick Professional and Personal Profile

Daniella Karagach's journey from a young competitor in Brooklyn to a Mirrorball Trophy winner is a testament to her dedication to dance. Here is a brief look at her key biographical details:

• Full Name: Daniella Brittany Karagach Pashkova
• Date of Birth: December 26, 1992
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 32
• Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York, USA
• Parents: Mark Karagach and Regina Yvette Karagach (Immigrants from Moldova)
• Height: 5'3" (1.60 m)
• Weight: Approximately 115 lbs (52 kg)
• Spouse: Pasha Pashkov (Married July 18, 2014)
• Children: One daughter, Nikita (Born 2023)
• DWTS Debut Season: Season 28 (Troupe Member)
• DWTS Pro Debut: Season 29
• DWTS Winning Season: Season 30 (with Iman Shumpert)
• Key Dance Titles: 3-time US National 10 Dance Champion, US National Professional Show Dance Champion, British Open Finalist.

The Height Challenge: Dominating the Ballroom at 5'3"

The professional ballroom world often sees a wide range of heights, and Daniella Karagach’s height of 5'3" is considered an advantage by many in the Latin dance sphere. Her stature allows for incredible speed, control, and a sharp, grounded quality in dances like the Samba, Cha-Cha, and Paso Doble. However, the size difference becomes a major talking point when she is paired with the tall celebrity contestants on *Dancing With the Stars*. This contrast has provided some of the most memorable visual moments in the show’s history, showcasing her versatility as a choreographer and partner.

The Staggering Height Difference with NBA Stars

One of the most extreme examples of the height contrast was her partnership with former NBA star Dwight Howard. Howard stands at a towering 6 feet 10 inches tall—a staggering 19-inch difference from Karagach. Fans and judges alike were fascinated by how the pair would navigate their routines. Karagach’s genius was in turning this physical challenge into a creative opportunity. She masterfully adapted the choreography, focusing on routines that emphasized the dramatic visual contrast and showcased Howard’s raw power while maintaining her technical precision. This ability to adapt to any partner, regardless of their size or athletic background, is what cemented her as one of DWTS's most valuable professional dancers. Another significant partnership was with fellow NBA champion Iman Shumpert in Season 30. Shumpert, at 6'5", was also significantly taller than Karagach. Their partnership ultimately led to her first Mirrorball Trophy win, making Shumpert the first NBA player to ever win the competition. This victory proved that Karagach's technical skill and innovative choreography could overcome any perceived physical limitations, solidifying her reputation as a champion.

From Moldovan Roots to DWTS Champion: Daniella's Dance Journey

Daniella Karagach's dance career began at a young age in New York, following her parents, Mark and Regina Yvette Karagach, who had immigrated from Moldova. Her early years were dominated by competitive ballroom and Latin dancing, where she quickly rose through the ranks. She established herself as a formidable competitor long before DWTS, achieving the prestigious title of a 3-time US National 10 Dance Champion and a US National Professional Show Dance Champion. Her early professional partner, Leonid Juashkovsky, helped her secure three United States Junior I and II Latin champion titles, laying the groundwork for her illustrious career. Her transition to *Dancing With the Stars* began in Season 28 as a troupe member. She officially became a professional dancer in Season 29, and by Season 30, she was a champion. Her partnerships have consistently been highlights of the show, including her recent, highly-publicized pairing with Dylan Efron in the most recent season (Season 34).

The Recent Drama and Partnership with Dylan Efron

In the current DWTS landscape, Daniella has been at the center of fresh media attention regarding her partnership with actor Dylan Efron. Rumors, fueled by tabloid speculation, suggested a potential snubbing of Efron or even threats of her quitting the show due to creative dissatisfaction. Karagach has been quick to address these rumors, often with humor and professionalism, confirming that while the intensity of the competition is high, her commitment to her partner and the show remains strong. Her ability to handle the spotlight—both for her incredible dancing and the inevitable reality TV drama—further establishes her as a seasoned professional.

A Decade of Love: Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov

Beyond the ballroom, Daniella’s personal life is anchored by her marriage to fellow DWTS professional, Pasha Pashkov. The couple’s love story is a beautiful example of a successful partnership both on and off the dance floor. They were married on July 18, 2014, in New Jersey, and recently celebrated a significant milestone by renewing their wedding vows after 11 years of marriage, a moment they shared with their young daughter, Nikita, who was born in 2023. The fact that both Daniella and Pasha are DWTS pros means they share an intimate understanding of the demands of their intense profession, a bond that has undoubtedly contributed to their enduring relationship. They are one of the most beloved couples in the DWTS family, often collaborating on tours and special performances, making them a true power couple in the world of professional dance. Their shared passion and mutual support, especially as they navigate the challenges of being working parents in the entertainment industry, provide a fascinating counterpoint to the on-screen drama of the DWTS competition.