Dancing with the Stars crowns Robert Irwin winner after 10 years, first sibling duet since Bindi’s Season 21 dominance with one Irwin family record that will shock you

Dancing With the Stars crowned Robert Irwin as the Season 34 champion on November 25, making him the first sibling winner since his sister Bindi Irwin claimed victory in Season 21. The 21-year-old wildlife conservationist overcame a rib injury hours before he danced his way to the Mirrorball Trophy.

Robert Irwin Edges Out His Final Four Competitors

The Season 34 finale featured five couples battling for the prestigious trophy. Mirrorball Trophy winners are determined by a combination of judges’ scores and viewer votes, weighted equally at 50/50. Jordan Chiles, the Olympic gold medalist, and her partner Ezra Sosa finished as strong runners-up alongside Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy, both attempting to secure their first trophy.

The finale aired on ABC and Disney+ and marked a new format for the show’s history. Five finalists performed three separate new dances—judges’ choice, instant dance challenge, and freestyle routines—rather than the traditional two rounds. Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli scored all performances, with scores combined with viewer votes to crown the winner.

How Robert Irwin’s Partnership With Witney Carson Created Magic

Witney Carson became a two-time Mirrorball champion with Robert’s victory, having previously won Season 19 alongside Alfonso Ribeiro, who now serves as host of the dancing competition. Their on-stage chemistry and emotional performances resonated deeply with both judges and voters.

Throughout the season, Robert and Witney earned perfect scores during the semi-finals, performing a standout jive during Prince Night. Their partnership evolved into one of the season’s most celebrated and consistent performances, with Robert bringing genuine emotion and athleticism to every routine.

The Irwin Siblings’ Historic Achievement

Bindi Irwin made history as the youngest winner of Dancing With the Stars when she claimed the trophy in Season 21 on November 24, 2015, at just **17 years old**. She partnered with Derek Hough, who earned a perfect score during her freestyle devoted to her late father, Steve Irwin.

Now, exactly 10 years later, Robert follows in his sister’s footsteps, making them the first siblings in Dancing with the Stars history to each win the Mirrorball Trophy. The achievement carries special meaning for the Irwin family, honoring their late conservationist father’s memory through their performances.

Robert’s Last-Minute Struggle With Injury

Hours before the finale aired on November 25, pro partner Witney Carson revealed that Robert Irwin had suffered a rib injury during rehearsals. Despite the physical setback and pain, the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist pushed through to deliver his final performance on stage.

Carson made adjustments to their routines and provided support as Robert competed through discomfort. His determination and resilience impressed viewers and judges alike, cementing his journey as one of Season 34‘s most memorable narratives.

What’s Next For the Dancing With the Stars Winner?

Robert Irwin now joins an elite group of Dancing with the Stars champions recognized for their growth and dedication throughout the competition. The finale also featured performances from eliminated contestants and a sneak peek at the DWTS Live 2026 tour.

The victory cements Robert’s place in entertainment while he continues his wildlife conservation work. With his sister Bindi supporting him from the audience, the moment celebrated not only his personal achievement but also the Irwin family’s enduring legacy of excellence and perseverance.

Sources

• The Hollywood Reporter – Official Dancing with the Stars Season 34 finale results and scores
• Gold Derby – Dancing with the Stars Season 34 finale recap and winner predictions
• Independent UK – Robert Irwin injury and finale coverage

Jessica Morrison

Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.