The recent Dancing With the Stars: Live! 2027 announcement left many fans puzzled when the beloved pro pair Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov were missing from the roster. The duo, whose chemistry has long been a highlight of the television competition, confirmed that they will not be part of the core lineup for the 60-stop tour slated for early next year.
Family takes priority over the stage
During a post-episode interview with Us Weekly on Tuesday night’s DWTS broadcast (October 6), Karagach explained the decision in her own words: “We’re probably going to be in and out. We just want to take this time to truly just enjoy our family.” The couple’s three-year-old daughter, Nikita has been on three consecutive tours, and the parents admitted they have “hadn’t had a moment” to simply breathe as a family. Karagach added, “She has been on three tours. We haven’t had a break, and I think this is the time to just inhale each other and go for a vacation in December or something.” The sentiment reflects a growing trend among performers to prioritize personal wellbeing after years of relentless travel.
Possible cameo appearances remain on the table
While the pair will miss the bulk of the itinerary, neither dismissed the idea of popping up for select shows. “We’ll do a few weeks here and there” Karagach hinted, suggesting that occasional guest spots could still thrill audiences. This flexible approach allows the pros to protect their family rhythm while keeping a connection to the live audience, a balance that many touring artists find appealing.
Who will light up the 2027 tour stage?
The announced lineup features a robust mix of seasoned professionals and fresh faces. Expected headliners include Brandon ArmstrongAlan BerstenHailey BillsVal ChmerkovskiyJenna JohnsonEmma SlaterEzra SosaBritt Stewart and Adele Zaikman. Rylee Arnold and Sharna Burgess will appear on select dates, while the troupe—Kamri PetersonOnye StevensonJaxon Willard and Carter Williams—will join the production for the first time. The tour promises a blend of classic ballroom, Latin flair, and contemporary choreography across the nation.
Season 35 remains the immediate focus
Beyond the tour, Karagach’s attention is fixed on season 35 of the television show, where she partners with Ezra Frech. Their rumba to Mariah Carey’s “Anytime You Need a Friend” earned a solid 24 out of 30 from the judges. When asked about scoring philosophy, Karagach emphasized the moment-to-moment mindset: “It’s not about the score. It’s not about the next week. It’s just about what we’re doing in the moment.” This perspective underlines why she values a brief hiatus from the grueling tour schedule.
Fans can still hope for surprise appearances from the couple throughout the 60-stop journey, but for now, the primary narrative is one of family rejuvenation and strategic career pacing.
