In a grand finale packed with emotion, energy and a few unexpected hurdles, Robert Irwin and his pro partner Witney Carson were crowned the winners of Dancing with the Stars Season 34. Host Alfonso Ribeiro delivered the big announcement, calling the duo “the new champions of Dancing with the Stars,” sparking loud cheers across the ballroom.
A Dream Finish — Even Through Injury
Moments after their win, Irwin dedicated the victory to those closest to him. “My sister said it best — thank you for changing my life,” he shared, visibly moved. Carson echoed the sentiment, adding, “I already feel like I won with him as my friend, and I can’t thank you enough.”
The celebration turned electric as fellow pros lifted the pair in the air, Mirrorball Trophies shining overhead — a classic DWTS moment.
What makes their win even more remarkable is Irwin’s rib injury, which he sustained just hours before performing in the finale on November 25. He revealed that the pain forced him to repeatedly stop during rehearsals, saying his “intercostal muscles were really painful,” and the discomfort kept getting worse. Carson admitted she was “extremely worried,” even teasing in a TikTok clip that “more will be revealed on Tuesday.”
A Tribute to Steve Irwin
Before their final performance, Robert opened up about wanting to honor his father, the late Steve Irwin. “I want this Freestyle to say thank you to America,” he said, adding, “I wish he could see it. I really wish he could be here.”
Their Freestyle routine — set to ‘Black & Gold’ by Sam Sparro and ‘The Nights’ by Avicii — was powerful enough for DWTS to declare on X that it would “live on in DWTS history.”
Fans & Celebrities Celebrate the Win
Good Morning America also joined the celebration in a congratulatory post wishing the pair well and inviting viewers to its DWTS afterparty.
The win adds another memorable chapter to the show’s legacy, with Irwin and Carson emerging as one of the season’s most inspiring and beloved pairs.
