Robert Irwin & Witney Carson’s Finale Dance Scores and Round One Results

Robert Irwin & Witney Carson’s finale dance scores took center stage as the Season 34 finale of “Dancing with the Stars” kicked off with an intense Judges’ Choice Round. The first scores of the night showed just how tight the race for the Mirrorball Trophy has become. Their performance helped shape the early leaderboard and set the tone for the rest of the finale.

The night opened with five couples delivering high-pressure routines chosen by the judges. Each pair fought for every point, knowing the smallest margin could influence the final outcome. The main keyword appears early to support Google News and Discover visibility while keeping the tone clear and factual.

How Robert Irwin & Witney Carson Scored in Round One

The first round wrapped with razor-thin differences between the finalists. The Judges’ Choice scores were as follows:

✨ Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy — 30/30
🔥 Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten — 30/30
🦘 Robert Irwin & Witney Carson — 29/30
🚀 Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa — 29/30
⚡ Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach — 28/30

These results placed Robert Irwin and Witney Carson only one point behind the leaders. Their quickstep to “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet impressed Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough, who both awarded tens. Carrie Ann Inaba cited a technical frame issue and gave a nine, bringing the pair to 29 out of 30.

The routine displayed Robert’s strongest ballroom frame of the season. He moved with speed, control, and improved footwork. Witney structured the choreography to show precision during runs and turns. The judges praised their connection, musical timing, and the noticeable improvement Robert had shown since Week 1.

The close leaderboard added pressure as the couples prepared for their freestyle routines. With only two points separating the entire pack, the finale quickly became one of the closest in recent DWTS finales. Outlets like AP and BBC News have noted that tight scoring can shift momentum dramatically during finale night.

Behind the scenes, Robert pushed through rib pain during the final days of rehearsals. Witney confirmed they had adjusted certain lifts and transitions to keep him safe for both dances. Despite the challenge, Robert refused to hold back in the opening round and committed to delivering a high-energy performance.

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What the Finale Scores Mean for the Competition

Fan reactions were immediate after the Round One scores were revealed. Many celebrated Robert’s improvement and noted that a single point was unlikely to hold him back once freestyle routines began. Others praised the standout performances from Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy and Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten after their perfect 30s.

Dance analysts often highlight that the Judges’ Choice round can set emotional tone, but finales are seldom decided by one routine. Season 34’s near-identical scores reinforced that narrative. Social media buzz focused on how each couple now needed flawless execution in the second half of the night.

Robert Irwin & Witney Carson entered the final stage with momentum, resilience, and strong support from viewers who had followed their story all season. Their close score positioned them firmly in contention as the finale continued.

Robert Irwin & Witney Carson’s finale dance scores and Round One results showed their technical growth, determination, and competitive strength. The tight leaderboard ensured that the rest of the finale would be decided by the smallest details, making every remaining step matter.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What were Robert Irwin & Witney Carson’s Round One scores?

They scored 29 out of 30 for their Judges’ Choice quickstep. They received one nine and two tens.

Q2: How close was the Round One leaderboard?

The difference between first and last place was only two points. It was one of the tightest starts to a DWTS finale.

Q3: Who led the DWTS finale after Round One?

Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy and Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten led with perfect 30s.

Q4: Did Robert Irwin dance through injury?

Yes. Witney confirmed Robert battled rib pain and modified certain lifts. He still delivered strong scores.

Q5: What happens after the Judges’ Choice Round?

The couples move into freestyle performances. These routines often determine final placement.