'Boy Meets World' Danielle Fishel Credits 'DWTS' Interest To Major Health Scare

Danielle Fishel is all about saying "Yes" after completing her breast cancer treatment.

The "Boy Meets World" star made the list of celebrity participants in the hit competition series "Dancing With The Stars." She recently revealed her health scare played a significant role in her involvement.

Danielle Fishel announced her breast cancer diagnosis in August 2024 during an episode of her "Pod Meets World" podcast. She will join other famous stars competing for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy on season 34 of the ABC program.

How Danielle Fishel's Breast Cancer Diagnosis Made Her Join 'DWTS'

After completing her breast cancer treatment, Fishel embraced a new mantra, "saying yes to this year." The stance stemmed from the realization that her life had been solely focused on her responsibilities without prioritizing "fun."

"The minute I was done with my cancer treatment, I thought to myself, 'If this has shown me anything, it has shown me that I am not experiencing enough joy in my life,'" Fishel told PEOPLE. She claimed she spent each day focused on work and family, without making time for herself.

On that note, Fishel did not hesitate when "DWTS" showrunners contacted her about the competition's new season. She revealed she accepted because participating in the hit show was "the perfect way to cap it off," referencing her breast cancer journey.

The TV Personality Was Diagnosed With DCIS

Fishel's breast cancer journey began in 2024 when she was diagnosed with an early form of the condition called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). She publicized the health update that August on her podcast before opening up about her treatment a month later.

The TV personality noted she underwent a lumpectomy and a margin revision surgery. She initially wanted a double mastectomy, but doctors talked her out of it because her condition was discovered early and did not require a mastectomy.

Fishel's treatment continued with 20 rounds of radiation, which caused a painful reaction. She claimed it "hurt to be awake" after the procedure gave her a rash and a "bad sunburn." After enduring these issues, performing on the hit show became the actress's silver lining.

The Disney Alum Is Excited To Hit The Ballroom

Following news of Fishel's participation in Season 34 of the dance competition, The Blast shared that she could not wait to hit the ballroom. She expressed excitement in an interview, revealing this wasn't the first time she had been asked to join the show.

Fishel explained that she had turned down the offer in the past; however, this year marked a new start. "When they asked, it was the most immediate and fastest 'yes' of the year. I just knew for sure this time was right and I wanted to do it," she raved.

The actress noted she felt a mix of excitement and nervousness to return to the spotlight after spending several years behind the camera as a director. Additionally, she felt vulnerable rocking sexy costumes for the show compared to the outfits she donned as a mom of two boys.

Other Stars Participating In The Dance Competition

Besides Fishel, famous figures from social media, Hollywood, and Sports were chosen to participate in the new season of "DWTS." The list included Zac Efron's younger brother, Dylan Efron, former child star Corey Feldman, and Australia's favorite wildlife advocate, Robert Irwin.

Robert's participation marked the second time someone from the famous Irwin clan had hit the ballroom as his sister, Bindi Irwin, emerged victorious in 2015 on the show's season 21. The celebrity cast continued with Fifth Harmony star Lauren Jauregui.

Social media personality Jen Affleck, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, and Alec Baldwin's longtime spouse, Hilaria Baldwin, also made the list. As for Fishel, she would hit the stage with professional dancer Pasha Pashkov as her partner, per ABC News.

Danielle Fishel Implored Fans To Prioritize Mammograms

Following her breast cancer diagnosis in August 2024, The Blast reported that Fishel had implored fans to prioritize going for regular checkups. She emphasized the importance of getting mammograms, noting her frequent examinations saved her life.

"The only reason we found it that early is because I prioritized myself into making sure I got a mammogram," Fishel explained. She noted her breast cancer was detected at an extremely early, "noninvasive" stage, described as stage zero.

Fishel's message wasn't addressed only to female fans as she implored her male followers to get regular checkups. She stressed that routine examinations were better than waiting for something to go wrong before visiting the hospital.

Fans can watch Danielle Fishel compete for the Mirrorball Trophy once the new season premieres on September 16.