Ariana Madix's DWTS Partner: A Journey Of Resilience And Rumba

When "Vanderpump Rules" star Ariana Madix stepped onto the "Dancing With the Stars" ballroom floor for Season 32, the world was watching. Not just for her dance moves, but for her remarkable journey of resilience following a highly publicized breakup. Fans had been eagerly anticipating her appearance, especially after the dramatic events of her personal life became front-page news. One of the biggest questions on everyone's mind was: Who would be the professional partner to guide her through this new chapter?

Initially, there was a buzz of speculation. DWTS pro dancer Alan Bersten, who has danced on the show for seven seasons and even won the mirrorball trophy with Hannah Brown on season 28, openly revealed in an August 2023 interview why he’d love to be paired with Ariana. However, as the pairings were officially announced, the answer became clear, and it couldn't have been more perfect for Madix.

The Perfect Pairing: Pasha Pashkov

Vanderpump Rules star Ariana Madix couldn’t be happier to be paired up with Pasha Pashkov for season 32 of Dancing With the Stars. Her excitement was palpable, and she wasted no time in expressing her joy. “I already won because I have the best partner,” Madix declared, a testament to the immediate connection and positive dynamic she found with Pasha.

Pasha Pashkov, known for his elegant style and supportive demeanor, proved to be an ideal match for Ariana. Their partnership quickly blossomed into something special, captivating audiences and judges alike. From the very first week, Madix ruled the ballroom, even drawing inspiration from her iconic "reunion revenge dress" for her premiere look. Her performances consistently showcased not just her inherent talent but also the strong bond and trust she built with Pasha.

A Partnership Beyond the Ballroom

The chemistry between Ariana and Pasha extended far beyond the dance floor. Their collaboration became a cornerstone of Ariana's healing process and a source of immense emotional growth. ET's Deidre Behar recently caught up with Madix and her dance partner, Pasha Pashkov, to discuss her exhilarating experience on the show and the emotional release she felt while performing.

One of the most poignant aspects of their partnership was the theme of trust. Before the finale of DWTS, Ariana became emotional while talking with her dance partner about how she’s learned to trust again. This deeply personal revelation resonated with many, highlighting the profound impact the show and Pasha's guidance had on her. It wasn't just about learning steps; it was about rebuilding her sense of self and opening up after a period of profound betrayal.

Their bond was so strong that Ariana even expressed a desire for a double date! "Dancing With the Stars" contestant Ariana Madix wants to go on a double date with her pro partner Pasha Pashkov and his wife Daniella Karagach. And not just any double date – she wanted her new boyfriend, Daniel Wai, to join them. This adorable idea further emphasized the genuine friendship and mutual respect that developed between the dance partners and their significant others.

Throughout the season, Ariana and Pasha delivered memorable performances. As part of Motown Week, the "Vanderpump Rules" star and her partner Pasha Pashkov performed a quickstep to The Supremes' "You Can't Hurry Love." Madix shared her excitement, stating, "This week I'm really excited." Their dedication and hard work were evident in every routine, earning them high scores and praise from the judges.

From Scandal to Sparkle: Ariana's DWTS Transformation

Ariana Madix's journey on "Dancing With the Stars" was inextricably linked to the highly public breakup with her nine-year relationship with "VPR" costar Tom Sandoval. The scandal, which erupted when she discovered Sandoval's infidelity, thrust her into the national spotlight in a way she never anticipated. DWTS became more than just a competition; it was a platform for her to reclaim her narrative and showcase her strength.

She showed that she had officially moved on from the scandal, embracing her new chapter with grace and determination. Less than two weeks after ending her relationship with Tom Sandoval, Madix met Daniel Wai, a 37-year-old fitness influencer, in the spring. Their relationship quickly blossomed, and Daniel Wai became a steadfast source of support for Ariana, especially during her DWTS tenure. Ahead of DWTS, Ariana Madix shared updates on her relationship with her boyfriend, Daniel Wai, demonstrating her happiness and stability.

At the DWTS finale, Ariana Madix was supported by her 'Vanderpump Rules' castmates, Lisa Vanderpump, and her "proud boyfriend" Daniel Wai. This outpouring of love and encouragement underscored how far she had come. Her resilience was inspiring, and her performances on the show became a powerful testament to her ability to turn adversity into triumph. Her "reunion revenge dress" moment, which inspired her premiere look, perfectly encapsulated her transformation from heartbroken to empowered.

It's also worth noting that "Vanderpump Rules" fans had known for a while that Ariana Madix would be competing on Season 32 of Dancing with the Stars. Not to be outdone, her ex-boyfriend, Tom Sandoval, also joined the cast of a different reality competition, "Special Forces," creating a parallel narrative of post-breakup endeavors.

Ariana Madix: More Than Just a Reality Star

Beyond her reality TV fame, Ariana Madix is a multifaceted talent. Born June 24, 1985, she is an American television personality, model, actress, dancer, and bartender. Her time on "Dancing With the Stars" allowed her to showcase her natural dancing abilities and dedication, proving she's much more than just a cast member on a Bravo series.

Her post-DWTS endeavors also highlight her versatility. Ariana Madix reflects on "Dancing with the Stars," working with dance partner, Pasha Pashkov, appearing in "Chicago" on Broadway, and where she stands with Lisa Vanderpump. This shows her continued growth and willingness to explore new artistic avenues.

The impact of her DWTS journey continues, with Pasha sharing that she was able to dance with two of his partners during the DWTS Live 2025 Tour, where he shared a moment with her. This further solidifies the lasting professional and personal bond formed during their time on the show.

In summary, Ariana Madix's journey on "Dancing With the Stars" Season 32 was a compelling narrative of personal triumph, expertly guided by her professional partner, Pasha Pashkov. Their partnership transcended mere dance steps, fostering emotional healing, rebuilding trust, and showcasing Ariana's incredible resilience. Supported by her new boyfriend, Daniel Wai, and her "Vanderpump Rules" family, Ariana not only excelled in the ballroom but also inspired countless viewers with her ability to turn a challenging personal experience into a dazzling new chapter.