Full Breakdown
Robert Irwin Wins Season 34 of "Dancing With the Stars"
11/28/2025, 5:24:34 AM
Record-Breaking Finale Ratings
The finale of Season 34 of "Dancing With the Stars," which aired on November 26, 2025, achieved significant viewership milestones. The three-hour episode garnered 9.24 million total viewers and a 2.15 rating among adults aged 18-49, marking the show's strongest finale in a decade. This viewership nearly doubled the previous season's finale rating of 1.14 and represented a 45% increase from last year's audience of 6.37 million. The finale also recorded the largest audience share for any broadcast entertainment series since the series finale of "Friends" in 2004, capturing a 53% share in the 18-49 demographic.
Robert Irwin's Journey to Victory
Robert Irwin, the son of the late wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, and his partner Witney Carson won the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, echoing the success of his sister, Bindi Irwin, who won the same title ten years prior. Throughout the season, Robert showcased a blend of charm and determination, culminating in a finale performance that earned him an impressive 89 out of 90 points. Despite suffering from a rib injury leading up to the finale, Irwin delivered three polished routines, including a freestyle that resonated emotionally with viewers.
Emotional Significance of the Win
In his victory speech, Robert expressed the profound impact of winning the trophy, stating, "To follow in those footsteps and to do the same has meant everything to me." He emphasized the importance of the win for his family's legacy and their conservation efforts. The emotional weight of his victory was further highlighted by the support he received from notable figures, including Prince William and Kate Middleton, who congratulated him on social media.
Competition Overview
The finale featured five couples competing for the title: Robert Irwin and Witney Carson, Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy (who finished in second place), Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa (third), Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach (fourth), and Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten (fifth). The competition was fierce, with a record-breaking 72 million votes cast during the finale, reflecting a 31% increase from the semifinals.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the finale, Robert Irwin expressed his gratitude for the experience, stating, "This has absolutely changed my life." Witney Carson echoed his sentiments, saying, "I'm so grateful for Robert, honestly — I already feel like I won with him as my friend." The finale's success was also noted by ABC, which highlighted that the telecast delivered more adult 18-49 viewing than the entirety of CBS's primetime entertainment schedule for the previous week.
Criticism & Opposition
While the finale was celebrated, some critics pointed out that the show's reliance on viewer voting could lead to unpredictable outcomes, potentially overshadowing the technical merits of the performances. However, the overwhelming viewer engagement this season suggests a strong connection between the audience and the contestants.
What's Next
Following the successful conclusion of Season 34, ABC is set to air a "Dancing With the Holidays" special on December 2, 2025, featuring festive routines and performances, continuing the momentum generated by the season finale.
