Image Source: People.com
Ezra Frech is showing television audiences that athletic excellence can take many forms. The 21-year-old Paralympic champion is competing on the 35th season of Dancing with the Stars, where his powerful performances and charismatic personality have made him one of the season’s most compelling contestants.
Frech is partnered with professional dancer Daniella Karagach, and after four weeks of competition, the pair remains firmly in the hunt for the championship. Their performances have consistently earned strong marks from the judges, placing them among the leading couples on the show.
Ezra Frech’s Remarkable Rise From Paralympic Champion to TV Star
Long before appearing on network television, Frech had already built an extraordinary résumé in para athletics. At the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, he won gold in both the 100 meters and high jump in the T63 classification.
His international medal collection also includes World Para Championship honors. Frech won high jump gold at the 2023 World Para Championships and followed that success with silver medals in the high jump at the 2024 and 2025 championships.
He first gained major international attention at the 2019 World Junior Para Championships, where he earned three individual medals. His results included high jump gold, along with bronze medals in the long jump and 100 meters.
What the T63 Classification Means
The T63 classification includes athletes whose movement is moderately affected in one leg or who have an absence of limbs above the knee. In the 100 meters, the classification is used for runners with the absence of one leg above the knee.
That background has made Frech’s success on the dance floor especially notable. His performances require balance, timing, control and confidence—qualities that have also helped define his career as an elite adaptive athlete.
A Former Brentwood Jumper Makes a Powerful Impression
Frech’s connection to track and field began during his high school years at Brentwood. Competing in California’s Southern Section, he established himself as one of the area’s notable jumpers in Division 4.
- High jump: 6 feet
- Long jump: 21 feet, 1.25 inches
- Triple jump: 39 feet, 5 inches
Those marks show the athletic foundation behind his current television performances. Although Dancing with the Stars is a very different stage from a track or jumping pit, Frech has brought the same competitive energy and determination to each routine.
Strong Scores Keep Frech in the Competition
Frech and Karagach opened the season with a tango to Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone.” They followed with a cha-cha-cha to Flo Rida’s “Low” during Viral Hits Night, where they tied for first place on the leaderboard.
During Yacht Rock Night, the duo performed a foxtrot to “Just the Two of Us” by Grover Washington Jr. and Bill Withers. Their routine tied for fourth place, adding another solid result to their growing campaign.
Their latest performance came during Mariah Carey Night, when they danced a rumba to “Anytime You Need a Friend.” The routine earned 24 points out of 30 and placed them tied for second on the night.
Next, Frech and Karagach are scheduled to perform a salsa to Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” during Super Bowl Night. The upcoming routine will give Frech another opportunity to combine athletic movement, musicality and showmanship.
Why Ezra Frech’s Visibility Matters
According to ABC, approximately seven million viewers watched the season premiere. That audience gives Frech a significant platform beyond the world of competitive athletics.
His appearance may encourage new viewers to learn more about the Paralympic movement, adaptive sports and track and field. While not every television viewer will immediately become a fan of para athletics, Frech’s presence makes the sport more visible to a broad mainstream audience.
For fans who already know his achievements, the show offers a fresh look at a champion outside the stadium. For new audiences, it is an introduction to an athlete whose career includes Paralympic gold, world medals and an unmistakable ability to command attention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra Frech
Who is Ezra Frech?
Ezra Frech is a 21-year-old Paralympic track and field champion who competes in the T63 classification. He is also a former Brentwood high school jumper and a contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
What medals has Ezra Frech won?
Frech won gold medals in the 100 meters and high jump at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. He has also won World Para Championship medals and three individual medals at the 2019 World Junior Para Championships.
Who is Ezra Frech’s dance partner?
Frech is partnered with professional dancer Daniella Karagach on the 35th season of Dancing with the Stars.
What are Ezra Frech’s high school track and field bests?
While competing for Brentwood, Frech recorded a 6-foot high jump, a 21-foot, 1.25-inch long jump and a 39-foot, 5-inch triple jump.
