Robert Irwin and professional dance partner Witney Carson have officially won Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars, capturing the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy after a dramatic and emotionally charged finale on Tuesday night. Their long-anticipated victory marked the culmination of months of intense practice, physical challenges, and heartfelt on-screen moments that resonated with millions of fans.
The beloved wildlife conservationist and television personality, best known for carrying on the legacy of his late father Steve Irwin, entered the competition as a viewer favorite from the start. Throughout the season, he impressed judges and audiences with his determination, surprising dance ability, and charismatic presence. His partner, two-time Mirrorball champion Witney Carson, helped guide him to the top with creative choreography and steady encouragement.
A Standout Finale Performance
Irwin and Carson delivered three high-energy routines during the live final, showcasing their growth and versatility:
Quickstep to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet
Cha Cha to “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE
Freestyle performance to “Black & Gold” by Sam Sparro and “The Nights” by Avicii
The finale freestyle received a standing ovation in the ballroom, bringing fans to tears as the pair danced with visible emotion. Their storytelling approach, paired with explosive energy, cemented their win over finalists:
Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
Victory Through Pain
Irwin’s win was especially remarkable given that he performed through significant rib pain. In the days leading up to the finale, Carson revealed that Irwin was struggling with discomfort due to tense intercostal muscles. Nonetheless, he pushed through rehearsals and danced at full force on competition night.
“My sister said it best: Thank you for changing my life.”
— Robert Irwin, after the win
Carson expressed her gratitude and admiration:
“I’m so grateful for Robert, and I feel like I already won with him as my friend.”
Their visible bond has become one of the most celebrated partnerships in DWTS history.
A Family Legacy Lives On
The victory carries extra significance — Robert’s sister, Bindi Irwin, won Season 21 of the show in 2015. Fans celebrated across social platforms, calling the moment a “full-circle Irwin family achievement.”
Social media erupted with praise, calling Irwin’s perseverance and positive spirit “inspiring” and “the heart of the season.”
A Season to Remember
Season 34 featured a diverse celebrity lineup, from social media personalities to Olympic athletes. Many viewers have called it one of the most emotional and competitive seasons in years.
With their Mirrorball Trophy win, Irwin and Carson end the season on a triumphant note, proving that resilience, joy, and genuine friendship can shine as brightly as technical perfection.
