Robert Irwin Wins Dancing With the Stars in Emotional Season 34 Finale
Robert Irwin wins Dancing with the Stars and steps into a spotlight that has followed his family for decades, claiming the Mirror Ball trophy ten years after his sister Bindi Irwin’s unforgettable triumph. The wildlife conservationist, TV host, and youngest member of the Irwin dynasty proved he could swap khakis for sequins — and deliver a finale fans will talk about for years.
A Victory a Decade in the Making
The 21-year-old entered the ballroom partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Week after week, the pair delivered polished, high-energy routines that showcased impressive growth, fierce determination, and Robert’s natural showmanship. Their win capped a marathon three-hour finale that featured five couples and three dances each, combining judges’ scores with nationwide audience votes.
Despite competing with a painful rib injury, Robert fought through the final night with a mix of grit and emotion. He opened the finale strong with a 29 out of 30, then rose to the moment and earned perfect scores in his final two performances. Although he finished the leaderboard tied for second with Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles — and just behind influencer Alix Earle’s perfect 90 — the audience carried him across the finish line.
When the votes were tallied, Robert Irwin and Alix Earle emerged as the top two scorers. Moments later, the ballroom erupted as Robert was crowned the season 34 champion.
“I wish he could see it, I really wish he could be here,”
Robert said through tears, referring to his late father, Steve Irwin. It was a raw, emotional end to a season defined by family, legacy, and storytelling through dance.
From Wildlife Warrior to Ballroom Champion
Robert’s journey from the Australia Zoo to the polished stage of Dancing with the Stars felt both unexpected and inevitable. He entered the competition performing in classic Irwin style — literally.
During his premiere, he appeared in his trademark khaki on the hood of a 4WD, binoculars in hand, a kookaburra calling in the background. With one dramatic leap, he tore off his shirt and exploded into a jive set to Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild.” It was a viral moment that set the tone for a season filled with personality and heart.
Throughout the competition, Robert and Witney delivered a series of standout routines including:
- A powerful tango
- A smooth, technically demanding foxtrot
- A playful jazz tribute to Wicked’s “Dancing Through Life”
- A heartfelt contemporary piece honoring his mother Terri Irwin
As the competition progressed, his dancing became more refined — but his focus on family never wavered. The emotional narrative threaded through his performances became a central pillar of his season.
Dances Dedicated to Family and Legacy
Honoring Terri and Steve Irwin
One of Robert’s most talked-about moments came during “dedication night,” when he honored his mother Terri Irwin with an emotional routine to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be In My Heart.” In a beautifully executed camera move, Witney slipped off the stage mid-routine and Terri gracefully stepped in. The moment captured the deep strength and resilience Terri has shown since Steve Irwin’s passing in 2006.
“My mum and dad were just … the ultimate team,” Robert said afterward. “They created something so much bigger than themselves. And I truly feel in some way … that he’s here in some way. And I hope he’s proud.”
Weeks later, Robert performed a foxtrot tribute to his late father to Leona Lewis’ “Footprints in the Sand,” mirroring Bindi Irwin’s own tribute from 2015. Bindi joined him onstage before a montage of Steve holding baby Robert illuminated the dance floor. Robert broke down in tears — and earned perfect 10s across the board.
Calling the performance “healing,” he wrote on Instagram,
“I carry Dad’s legacy with me in everything I do. I’m a proud Wildlife Warrior, and I’ll always carry on my dad’s mission.”
These moments turned Robert’s season into more than a dance competition — they revealed a personal story of grief, gratitude, and generational legacy that resonated deeply with viewers.
A Season That Captivated Millions
Robert Irwin wins Dancing with the Stars — and becomes a global favorite
Judging by the numbers, this season marked a high point for the long-running series. Dancing with the Stars averaged nearly 6 million same-day viewers according to Nielsen, with younger demographics tuning in at higher rates than in previous years. Robert’s routines regularly dominated YouTube, pulling in millions of views — often surpassing other contestants by large margins.
The five finalists who joined him in the finale included:
- Alix Earle, social media influencer
- Jordan Chiles, Olympic gymnast
- Elaine Hendrix, actor
- Dylan Efron, filmmaker and brother of Zac Efron
Their inclusion created one of the most diverse, competitive casts in years — but Robert’s combination of charm, narrative depth, and technical growth made him a standout.
What Comes Next for Robert Irwin
The win is just the latest milestone in what has already been a whirlwind career. Earlier in 2024, Robert was announced as the new co-host of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! alongside Julia Morris, stepping into a major TV role at only 20. Months later, he earned a Gold Logie nomination, becoming the youngest male nominee for the award.
His Bond’s underwear campaign — featuring Robert posing confidently with Australian reptiles — became a viral sensation and showed the world a more mature, grown-up version of the beloved conservationist.
“The defining moment I think for me… was when I got my gear off and did that ad,” he joked to People magazine. “But it’s a new era, I want to embrace that I’m all grown up.”
Key Takeaways
- Robert Irwin’s DWTS win arrives 10 years after Bindi Irwin’s.
- His finale performance included two perfect-score dances.
- Family tributes were among the most emotional moments of the season.
- Younger audiences boosted ratings for the show’s 34th season.
- Robert’s entertainment career continues to rise rapidly.
For DWTS Fans
If you’re inspired by Robert’s journey and want to bring a bit of that energy and glam into your own home, check out our hand-picked Amazon picks. These items let you feel like a Mirror Ball champion in your own space.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Robert 2026 Calendar
- Dancing With the Stars – Cardio Dance for Weight Loss
- Glam Makeup
- Ballroom Latin Tango Salsa Dance Dress
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