The Shocking Truth Behind Kate Flannery's Dancing With The Stars Elimination

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As of December 13, 2025, fans of *The Office* still vividly recall the surprising and, for many, deeply frustrating journey of beloved actress Kate Flannery on Season 28 of *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS). Known globally for her unforgettable role as the eccentric Meredith Palmer, Flannery brought her signature comedic energy and unexpected grace to the ballroom floor, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Her partnership with new professional dancer Pasha Pashkov was a highlight of the season, showcasing a genuine chemistry that transcended the competition. The season was defined by unexpected highs and a controversial elimination that left judges "confused and irritated," raising questions about the voting system. Flannery's run, which saw her consistently improve and deliver some truly memorable performances, ended abruptly in Week 8. This article dives deep into her complete DWTS experience, from her biographical roots to her partnership, her standout dances, and the lasting legacy of her shocking exit from the competition.

Kate Flannery: Biography and Career Profile

Kate Flannery is an American actress, comedian, and singer, best known for her role in one of the most iconic sitcoms of the 21st century.

  • Full Name: Kate Flannery
  • Date of Birth: June 10, 1964
  • Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
  • Raised In: Ardmore, Pennsylvania
  • Siblings: One of seven siblings in an Irish family
  • Education/Early Career: Began as a comedic stage actress and improviser, paying her dues in the vibrant theater and club scenes of Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.
  • Breakthrough Role: Meredith Palmer on the NBC series *The Office* (2005–2013).
  • Other Notable Work: Voice acting in animated series like *OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes*, and roles in films and TV shows such as *A Little Something for Your Birthday* and *American Housewife*.
  • DWTS Season: Season 28 (2019)
  • DWTS Partner: Pasha Pashkov
  • DWTS Placement: 7th place (Eliminated Week 8)

The Unexpected Grace of Season 28: Kate & Pasha’s Journey

When Kate Flannery was announced as a contestant on *Dancing with the Stars* Season 28, the public was excited to see the Dunder Mifflin favorite—a character known for her wild antics—attempt ballroom elegance. Paired with newcomer professional Pasha Pashkov, the duo quickly became known as "Team Pashkoff."

Flannery’s journey was a testament to dedication and heart, proving that age is just a number in the demanding world of competitive dance. At 55, she impressed the judges with her commitment and ability to tackle complex choreography.

Early Performances and Standout Moments

The pair started strong, with their Week 2 Foxtrot to Frank Sinatra's "Fly Me to the Moon" earning a respectable score of 21 (7, 7, 7) from judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman, and Bruno Tonioli. This performance set a positive tone for their potential, showing a surprising level of refinement.

One of the most emotionally resonant performances came during Disney Night (Week 5), where they performed a Jazz routine to "A Spoonful of Sugar." The routine was highly praised and earned them a solid score of 24 (8, 8, 8). Flannery also delivered a deeply personal Viennese Waltz, which she dedicated to her late sister, Nancy, who had passed away just before Kate signed on for DWTS. She also dedicated a dance to the hardworking service industry, a nod to her own past as a waitress.

The true magic of the partnership was the visible bond between Flannery and Pasha Pashkov. Their chemistry was often cited as a key factor in their success, with Pasha, a new pro, being commended by the judges for his excellent choreography and mentorship.

The Controversial Week 8 Elimination

The end of Kate Flannery’s DWTS run remains one of the most talked-about eliminations in the show's history. It occurred during Week 8, a crucial point in the competition, after she and Pasha performed a dazzling Jive to Linda Ronstadt’s "Heat Wave."

The Jive and The Bottom Two

Despite receiving positive feedback and a score of 24 for their Jive, Flannery and Pasha Pashkov found themselves in the bottom two, alongside pop star Ally Brooke and her partner Sasha Farber. The situation was immediately perplexing to the audience and the judges, as Ally Brooke had earned a perfect score of 30 earlier in the evening.

The "bottom two" scenario requires the judges to save one couple, and the decision between the two was agonizing. Ultimately, the judges chose to save Ally Brooke, sending Kate Flannery home in seventh place. The palpable shock in the room was evident, with judge Len Goodman calling the elimination "confusing and irritating," a direct critique of the fan voting results that put Flannery in jeopardy despite her strong performance.

Flannery's gracious exit, despite the controversial nature of the vote, cemented her status as a class act. She expressed gratitude for the experience, the physical challenge, and the bond she formed with her partner, Pasha.

Kate Flannery’s Post-DWTS Legacy and Current Updates

Kate Flannery's time on DWTS was not just a brief appearance; it significantly boosted her profile and showcased her versatility beyond Dunder Mifflin. Her DWTS experience has led to new opportunities and a continued presence in the ballroom world.

The DWTS Live Tour and Lasting Connections

Following her season, Flannery joined the *Dancing with the Stars Live* tour, taking her performance skills on the road to meet fans across the country. This allowed her to continue practicing ballroom and Latin dance styles, including the Cha-Cha and Quickstep, further solidifying her connection to the show's professional family.

In a more recent update, Flannery has publicly shown her support for subsequent DWTS contestants, demonstrating her ongoing engagement with the show. She was seen gushing over and encouraging fans to vote for Robert Irwin during a later season. This act of camaraderie highlights the tight-knit community formed during the competition.

Flannery’s time on Season 28 remains a powerful example of the show's ability to surprise. She proved that the heart of a performer can overcome a lack of formal training. For many fans, her shocking elimination was a wake-up call about the need for a balance between judges' scores and public votes. Her journey is celebrated not just for the dances, but for the sheer joy and authenticity she brought to the ballroom floor.

kate flannery dancing with the stars
kate flannery dancing with the stars

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