Robert Irwin’s Injury Threatens DWTS Season 34 Victory

UPDATE: Just hours before the finale of Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) Season 34, winner Robert Irwin revealed he suffered severe rib injuries that almost jeopardized his performance. The Australian conservationist, who triumphed alongside professional dancer Witney Carson, disclosed that his condition had worsened leading up to the final dance.

In a heartfelt statement, Irwin admitted he had been enduring “a lot of pain” from his rib injuries, specifically citing tension in his intercostal muscles. “It’s been getting worse progressively,” he explained, highlighting the toll the intense competition has taken on his body.

The finale aired on November 25, 2025, and despite the physical challenges, Irwin and Carson delivered a stunning performance that earned them perfect scores from the judges. Irwin’s challenges were echoed by Carson in a TikTok video the day before the finale, where she revealed the strain of “11 weeks of crazy, vigorous, and hard dancing.”

“We’re like, kind of falling apart right now,” Carson stated, emphasizing the physical demands of the competition. She further noted, “Robert’s ribs have been killing him, and more will be revealed on Tuesday,” suggesting that their struggles were far from over.

The duo’s final night included three remarkable performances. In the Judge’s Choice round, they danced to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet. During the Instant Dance segment, they showcased their cha-cha skills to “Cake by the Ocean” by DNCE. Finally, in the Freestyle round, they captivated the audience with routines to “Black & Gold” by Sam Sparro and “The Nights” by Avicii.

Irwin’s resilience in the face of injury not only highlights his dedication but also serves as an inspiring testament to determination against adversity. This emotional journey has resonated with fans globally, sparking conversations about the physical toll of competitive dancing.

As the dust settles from the finale, viewers are left wondering about the extent of Irwin’s injuries and how they may affect his future in dance. The DWTS community eagerly anticipates more updates from the couple, who have become a beloved pair throughout the season.

Stay tuned for further developments on Robert Irwin’s health and his future endeavors after this triumphant yet challenging finale.