Image Source: People.com
Ezra Frech has quickly become one of the most inspiring contestants on season 35 of Dancing With the Stars, but the Paralympian is not taking on the ballroom challenge alone. Behind the 21-year-old athlete is a close-knit family that has supported his athletic career, disability advocacy and personal mission for years.
Frech is preparing for Dedication Night on October 20, 2026, when he and professional dance partner Daniella Karagach will perform a contemporary routine honoring his mother, Bahar Soomekh. The pair are set to dance to “Bloodline” by Mon Rovia in what promises to be one of the season’s most emotional performances.
Ezra Frech’s Family Takes Center Stage on DWTS
Frech offered fans a glimpse into rehearsals in an Instagram video shared on October 18. Standing beside Soomekh, he described his mother as his “best friend, therapist, life coach and now dance partner.” He also jokingly introduced the rehearsal space as his “office.”
The tribute gives viewers an opportunity to learn more about the family members who have helped shape Frech’s outlook. Although his work in the ballroom is highly visible, his support system has long been connected to adaptive sports and the Paralympic community.
Bahar Soomekh: Ezra Frech’s Inspiring Mother
Soomekh is a mother of three who has built a varied career as an actress, public speaking coach and real estate agent. She is perhaps best known for playing Dorri in the 2004 film Crash, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
She later appeared in television shows including JAG, Without a Trace, Ghost Whisperer, Castle and Parenthood. Her professional accomplishments, however, extend beyond acting.
Soomekh is also a cofounder of Angel City Sports, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that provides year-round adaptive and Paralympic sports programs. The organization has helped create opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities and has played an important role in the Frech family’s community involvement.
Soomekh has been vocal about her pride in her son throughout his Dancing With the Stars journey. In a September 2026 social media post, she expressed intense excitement ahead of the competition and encouraged supporters to “Frech’n go.” Her appearance during Dedication Night is expected to make the performance especially meaningful.
Clayton Frech’s Role in Ezra’s Mission
Ezra’s father, Clayton Frech, is also deeply involved in adaptive athletics. He serves as CEO of Angel City Sports and founded Vitium Productions, a company focused on sharing stories from the adaptive and Paralympic sports community.
Clayton has spoken openly about how raising Ezra and being part of a diverse sports network influenced the entire family. In comments to the Special Fathers Network, he explained that his children grew up around wheelchair users and amputees. As a result, they learned to interact with people with differences naturally and without fear.
That upbringing aligns closely with Ezra’s stated purpose on Dancing With the Stars. After the season 35 cast was announced, the athlete said he wanted to change how the world sees disability. His presence on the show allows him to showcase athletic ability while challenging assumptions about what disabled performers can accomplish.
Meet Ezra Frech’s Brothers, Gabriel and Elijah
Frech is one of three children. His brothers, Gabriel Frech and Elijah Frech, have also supported him, although they maintain different levels of privacy.
Gabriel previously took part in the United States Senate Page Program, an experience that introduced students from diverse backgrounds to life and learning in Washington, D.C. He thanked Senator Adam Schiff and his school for helping make the opportunity possible.
Elijah keeps a lower profile. His social media presence indicates that he is a high school student in Los Angeles, but he has largely stayed out of the public spotlight while his brother competes on television.
Why Ezra Frech’s DWTS Journey Matters
Frech’s participation carries significance beyond scores, costumes and elimination results. The Paralympian is using one of television’s biggest dance platforms to promote visibility for people with disabilities. He also received encouragement from fellow Paralympic athlete and former Dancing With the Stars contestant Amy Purdy, who has served as a mentor and friend.
With Soomekh beside him for Dedication Night and his family cheering from home, Frech’s performance will highlight both his progress as a dancer and the people who helped him reach the ballroom. His story continues to connect entertainment, elite sport and disability representation in a powerful way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra Frech
Who is Ezra Frech?
Ezra Frech is a 21-year-old Paralympian and season 35 contestant on Dancing With the Stars. He is competing with professional dancer Daniella Karagach.
Who is Ezra Frech’s mother?
His mother is Bahar Soomekh, an actress, public speaking coach, real estate agent and cofounder of Angel City Sports.
Who is Ezra Frech’s father?
His father is Clayton Frech, the CEO of Angel City Sports and founder of Vitium Productions.
Who are Ezra Frech’s brothers?
Ezra has two brothers, Gabriel Frech and Elijah Frech. Gabriel participated in the United States Senate Page Program, while Elijah is a high school student in Los Angeles.
What will Ezra Frech perform on Dedication Night?
Frech and Daniella Karagach will perform a contemporary dance to “Bloodline” by Mon Rovia in honor of Bahar Soomekh.
