Wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin clinched the Mirrorball Trophy in the 34th season of Dancing With the Stars on November 25, 2025, alongside his professional dance partner Witney Carson. The 21-year-old Aussie rose above stiff competition to secure the title, logging a defining win just a decade after his elder sister Bindi Irwin lifted the same trophy back in 2015.
A Legacy Rekindled: Brother Follows Sister’s Footsteps
Robert’s victory carries deep emotional weight for the Irwin family. When asked what winning meant to him, he recalled Bindi’s own win ten years ago, adding: “My sister said it best — thank you for changing my life.”
With both siblings now champions, the family becomes the first sibling pair to claim the Mirrorball Trophy in the show’s history.
A Tough Finale: Overcoming Injury to Claim the Crown
Despite suffering a rib-cage injury just hours before the finale, Robert persevered. On live television the next morning, he acknowledged the pain: “It’s painful, but you know, no pain, no gain.” Still, he and Witney adapted their choreography, eliminating riskier lifts — a decision that didn’t stop them from delivering a winning performance.
Their final night included three demanding rounds: a Quickstep for the Judges’ Choice, a Cha Cha for the Instant Dance, and a Freestyle. The judges awarded near-perfect scores, and combined with audience votes, this sealed their victory over formidable finalists including influencer Alix Earle, gymnast Jordan Chiles, actor Elaine Hendrix, and actor/creator Dylan Efron.
Witney Carson: A Champion Again
For Witney Carson, this marks her second Mirrorball win. She previously won the trophy in 2014 alongside co-host Alfonso Ribeiro. She described winning with Robert as “the biggest gift,” expressing gratitude to fans and praising Robert’s “resilience, joy, light and heart.”
What’s Next for Robert Irwin
Following his win, Robert revealed plans to travel to New York and then fly to South Africa to film a new show. He also hinted that Witney might visit Australia — joking “you’re not getting rid of me that easy.”
As he celebrated on stage, Robert dedicated the trophy win to family — honoring not only Bindi but also paying tribute to their late father (the famed conservationist). The emotional win underscored the blend of dance, legacy and heartfelt tribute that defined his DWTS journey
