Robert Irwin, a leading contestant on ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ sustained a rib injury just before the season 34 finale, as revealed by his partner Witney Carson, leading to adjustments in their final performance. The injury added uncertainty to the highly anticipated competition, with Carson disclosing the issue in a social media video and emphasizing their determination to push through despite physical exhaustion.
Witney Carson shared details of Irwin’s rib injury in a TikTok video posted in the days leading up to the November 25 finale, noting that his ribs were ‘killing him’ and that more information would be revealed during the live episode. She explained that the injury necessitated last-minute changes to their freestyle routine, describing the process as stressful but essential to adapt to Irwin’s condition. The pair had been rehearsing intensively for 11 weeks, and Carson admitted that both their bodies were feeling the strain, with Irwin’s pain becoming a significant concern hours before the final show.
The physical toll of the competition was compounded by emotional exhaustion, as Carson described the experience as bittersweet and shared that she had been crying frequently due to the combination of fatigue and the journey’s end. Despite the challenges, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to partner with Irwin and for the support from voters who helped them reach the finale. Their commitment was unwavering, with rehearsals continuing until the studio closed on the eve of the finale, highlighting their dedication to delivering a memorable performance.
Irwin and Carson competed against other finalists, including influencer Alix Earle with Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles with Ezra Sosa, television personality Dylan Efron with Daniella Karagach, and actress Elaine Hendrix with Alan Bersten, for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Irwin had previously earned a perfect score in an episode, positioning him as a frontrunner, but the injury introduced an element of unpredictability into the outcome. The competition was fierce, with each pair bringing unique strengths to the finale after a season of rigorous performances.
Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin, carries a family legacy in the show, as his sister Bindi Irwin won ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in 2015. His participation has drawn attention due to his family’s fame and his own growing profile, including roles in television and conservation efforts. Irwin has been open about the physical demands of the competition, previously discussing how he maintains his fitness but acknowledging that his body was starting to break down under the pressure.
The timing of the injury raised questions about its impact on Irwin’s ability to perform at his best, with Carson hinting that viewers would learn more about the challenges they faced throughout the week. The pair’s resilience was evident as they focused on minimizing regrets, rehearsing extensively despite the pain and fatigue. Their partnership, built over the season, was characterized by mutual support and a shared goal of excellence, even in the face of unexpected setbacks.
As the finale aired on November 25, 2025, at 8 p.m. EST on ABC, fans eagerly watched to see if Irwin could overcome the injury and secure victory. The outcome would not only determine the winner but also underscore the themes of perseverance and adaptability that defined the season. Regardless of the result, Irwin’s journey highlighted the physical and emotional demands of competitive dance, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and adding to the show’s rich history.
