The fictional Season 34 finale of Dancing with the Stars delivered everything viewers hoped for: intensity, emotion, stunning choreography, and a nail-biting finish that left fans arguing long after the credits rolled. After eleven grueling weeks and three high-stakes final rounds — Judges’ Choice, Instant Dance, and Freestyle — the Mirrorball Trophy finally found a new home… though not everyone agreed with where it landed.
On Tuesday, November 25, millions tuned in to watch the last five couples battle for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. By the end of the night, a champion was declared — and social media instantly erupted in debate.
The Finalists and the Battle for the Trophy
The Season 34 finale featured an eclectic and talented group of finalists:
Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
Robert Irwin & Witney Carson
Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
Each duo showcased their strengths in three demanding rounds that tested technique, stamina, musicality, and showmanship. The competition was fierce — perhaps the closest in the show’s fictional history.
When the dust finally settled, Robert Irwin and partner Witney Carson were crowned the Season 34 champions, echoing the emotional victory his sister Bindi earned ten seasons earlier. The moment felt like déjà vu with an added emotional punch.
Robert and Witney’s finale routines included:
A razor-sharp Quickstep to Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl”
A playful, rhythm-heavy Cha Cha in the Instant Dance round
A showstopping Freestyle set to Sam Sparro’s “Black & Gold” and Avicii’s “The Nights”
Their energy, charm, and steady progress throughout the season won over the judges and — apparently — enough viewers to clinch the trophy.
Final Results and Shockwaves Online
When hosts read the final placements:
5️⃣ Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
4️⃣ Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
3️⃣ Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
2️⃣ Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
1️⃣ Robert Irwin & Witney Carson — Winners
Julianne Hough announced that the viewer vote margin between the top two couples was “one of the tightest we’ve ever seen.”
And that announcement only fueled the fandom firestorm.
Within seconds, social platforms were packed with reactions ranging from celebration to outrage. One fan wrote:
“This was a ROBBERY. I’m reporting it to the ballroom police.”
Another insisted Jordan Chiles had the strongest Freestyle of the night. Others argued that Alix Earle had the most growth and should have won.
But supporters of Irwin clapped back, pointing out that he entered the competition with zero dance experience and improved dramatically week after week.
One viewer defended the result:
“America got it right. Robert started from scratch and earned every vote.”
A Difficult Journey Behind the Scenes
While the fictional season looked glamorous on-screen, the work behind it was grueling. Witney Carson revealed that Robert had been dancing through rib pain. Eleven weeks of nonstop rehearsals took a toll on both of them.
When the win was announced, Carson fought back tears, praising Robert’s work ethic and heart. Robert, visibly overwhelmed, thanked her for “changing his life,” echoing a sentimental phrase his sister Bindi once used.
A Season Full of Heart — and Healing
For Robert Irwin, this fictional Mirrorball victory held special meaning. Throughout the season, he quietly honored his late father, Steve Irwin. He often rehearsed in one of Steve’s old shirts — faded, torn, and deeply sentimental — telling producers it felt like “a big hug” that grounded him during the hardest weeks.
After winning, Robert revealed he’d soon be heading to New York and then South Africa for a new conservation project. Witney joked that she planned to tag along for part of the adventure.
The Legacy of Season 34
Whether fans agree on the winner or not, one thing is certain in this fictional world: Season 34 delivered drama, talent, tears, and unforgettable performances.
Robert Irwin’s journey — raw, heartfelt, and filled with quiet tributes — resonated with viewers. The finale may have sparked debate, but it also showcased why Dancing with the Stars continues to captivate fans season after season.
And as for the “robbery” accusations?
Well… every great season needs a little controversy.