Mali Levi Opens Up About Childhood Harassment on Dancing With the Stars

On the final night of the personal stories challenge on Israel's Dancing With the Stars, contestants shared deeply personal and emotional experiences. Among them, actress Mali Levi revealed for the first time a childhood harassment incident that she had long suppressed. Levi recounted that when she was in first grade, she was alone with an older man who crossed a boundary, an event that left her confused and scared. Although the harassment stopped, it profoundly affected her, and she emphasized the importance of shedding light on such experiences to help others feel less alone.

Other contestants also shared significant struggles. Noa Cohen spoke candidly about her battle with body dysmorphic disorder, describing how it once prevented her from leaving the house without heavy makeup. Guy Hochman tearfully recounted a traumatic accident involving his mother, who was severely injured by a scooter traveling at 60 km/h, resulting in a brain injury that left her dependent on care. His father has since devoted himself to her full-time care.

Bar Brimer dedicated his dance to his late grandmother, sharing how her illness and chemotherapy affected their relationship and how the dance served as a final tribute to their bond. Tzachi Halevi, a former commando, discussed the invisible wounds of war and the mental health challenges he faces post-service, including episodes of night terrors and emotional breakdowns.

The episode highlighted the courage of the contestants in confronting and sharing their personal traumas, using the platform to raise awareness and foster empathy among viewers.