Robert Irwin’s Rib Injury Shakes Up Dancing with the Stars Season 34 Finale

The Dancing with the Stars Season 34 Finale culminated on November 25, 2025, with five celebrities competing for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Frontrunner Robert Irwin faced a last-minute rib injury just hours before the live broadcast. The three-hour event on ABC featured a historic new three-dance format for the first time.

Contestants Alix Earle, Dylan Efron, Jordan Chiles, and Elaine Hendrix also vied for the championship title. The finale introduced judges’ choice, instant dance, and freestyle rounds. Viewer votes combined with judges’ scores to determine the ultimate winner.

Historic Finale Format Tests Finalists’ Versatility

Each couple performed three entirely new dances in the groundbreaking finale structure. This change heightened competition and required immense preparation from the celebrities and their professional partners. According to Reuters, the format was designed to test adaptability and skill under pressure.

Robert Irwin and Witney Carson performed a quickstep for their judges’ choice selection. Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy earned a perfect 30/30 score in the same round. The instant dance challenge added an element of surprise, requiring couples to perform to randomly selected music.

Injury Drama and Fan Favorites Define Final Night

Robert Irwin’s rib injury created significant uncertainty heading into the final performances. His professional partner, Witney Carson, confirmed the injury just before the live show. Despite this setback, Irwin proceeded with all three scheduled dances.

Social media momentum heavily favored Alix Earle throughout the competition. Her TikTok following generated substantial viewer engagement and voting support. Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles also demonstrated remarkable athleticism and growth throughout the season.

Freestyle Performances Showcase Creativity

The freestyle round allowed couples to express their unique styles and strengths. Alix Earle performed to a mashup of “Maneater” by Nelly Furtado and “Sports Car” by Tate McRae. Jordan Chiles chose “Motivation” by Normani for her athletic and powerful routine.

These performances often determine the final outcome of the competition. Couples invest significant creative energy into choreographing memorable routines. The freestyle round typically generates the most social media buzz and viewer discussion.

Eliminated Cast Returns for Celebration

All previously eliminated contestants returned for the grand finale celebration. Jen Affleck, Whitney Leavitt, Hilaria Baldwin, and Baron Davis joined the event. Corey Feldman, Danielle Fishel, Scott Hoying, and Lauren Jauregui also returned to support the finalists.

Season 33 champions Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson made a special appearance. Their performance celebrated the show’s ongoing legacy and successful transition to new seasons. The reunion created an emotional conclusion to the competitive journey.

The Dancing with the Stars Season 34 Finale combined unexpected drama with exceptional performances, crowning a new champion while honoring the show’s rich history. The winner joins an elite group of entertainers and athletes who have mastered the ballroom.

Thought you’d like to know

Who won the Dancing with the Stars Season 34 finale?

The winner was determined by combining judges’ scores and viewer votes after the final performances. Results were announced live at the end of the three-hour broadcast on November 25, 2025.

What was Robert Irwin’s injury before the finale?

Robert Irwin suffered a rib injury hours before the live finale broadcast. Despite this setback, he competed in all three dance rounds with professional partner Witney Carson.

How did the new finale format work?

Each couple performed three new dances: judges’ choice, instant dance challenge, and freestyle routine. This marked a significant departure from previous seasons’ finale structures.

Which professional dancers reached the finale?

Witney Carson, Val Chmerkovskiy, Daniella Karagach, Ezra Sosa, and Alan Bersten all partnered finalists. This represented a mix of veteran and newer professional dancers.

Did any past winners return for the finale?

Season 33 champions Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson performed during the finale event. Bindi Irwin, Robert’s sister and season 21 winner, supported him from the audience.

How does the voting system work for the winner?

The winner is determined by combining judges’ scores (50%) and public votes (50%). Viewers could vote during the East Coast broadcast until voting closed after the final performance.