Ezra Frech Focuses on Purpose Amidst 'Dancing With the Stars' Success

Ezra Frech, a Paralympic gold medalist, is achieving top scores on Season 35 of "Dancing With the Stars," attributing his success to a deeper motivation: to increase disability representation.

Frech, who was born with a congenital limb difference, views his participation in the ABC competition as an opportunity to demonstrate the possibilities for individuals with disabilities. He shares that viral social media videos show children and adults with limb differences, wheelchair users, and amputees watching him dance, which he hopes encourages them. "I feel like I’m really connected to my purpose — what I feel I was put on this earth to do — and that’s getting the opportunity to be the disability representation that I think we need as a society," Frech told Decider. "It’s those videos that I see on social media of a little kid with a hand difference jumping up and down and watching me dance, or a little girl in a wheelchair, or someone who recently lost a leg and is watching me dance…. Maybe that motivates them just 5 percent more to get out of bed and go pursue something."

While Frech makes the complex dance routines appear effortless alongside his professional partner, Daniella Karagach, he acknowledges the significant physical challenge. However, he finds the effort worthwhile for the cause he champions. "Regardless of what I feel on a day-to-day basis, I know that I’m dancing for a bigger purpose this season, and that’s the most motivating part of all of it," he said.

Reflecting on his journey, Frech expressed surprise at the resurgence of viral clips from his past appearances, including interviews from "The Ellen Show" when he was nine years old. He noted that while he wouldn't alter his past, he would advise his younger self to "keep dreaming big," as he never anticipated being on "Dancing With the Stars."

Frech also highlighted the strong connection with his dance partner, Daniella Karagach, describing their relationship as akin to having a best friend. He praised her teaching style and their synchronized communication, which he believes has made the learning process smoother. The duo is preparing for Mariah Carey Night, where they will perform a rumba to "Anytime You Need a Friend."

Looking ahead, Frech anticipates themed nights such as Super Bowl Night and Halloween, appreciating how each theme adds a unique flavor to the competition. Winning the Mirrorball Trophy would be a dream come true, but Frech emphasizes the importance of controlling what he can: his work ethic, his process, and his commitment to pouring his heart into every performance. He believes that by giving his all, he and Karagach can walk away content, regardless of the ultimate result.