Irwin's Emotional Victory After Gruelling Season
Robert Irwin has claimed victory in the latest season of Dancing with the Stars US, securing the coveted Mirror Ball trophy alongside professional dance partner Witney Carson. The win comes exactly ten years after his sister, Bindi Irwin, achieved the same accomplishment on the popular American dance competition.
The Australian conservationist and television personality fought through significant physical challenges to reach the finale, including managing a painful rib injury during the crucial final performances. Despite the setback, the duo adapted their choreography and pushed through to impress both judges and viewers.
Narrow Victory in Record-Breaking Season
Co-host Julianne Hough revealed that this season saw the highest voting numbers in the programme's history, with Irwin's margin of victory over runner-up Alix Earle being the narrowest ever recorded on the show. This remarkable statistic highlights the intense competition throughout the season.
While influencer Alix Earle received a perfect judge's score of 90 points, Irwin tied with Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles at 89 points. However, when combined with audience votes, the Australian wildlife presenter emerged as the ultimate champion.
Emotional Tribute to Late Father Steve Irwin
Following his winning performance, an emotional Irwin shared heartfelt words about his late father, the beloved conservationist and television personality Steve Irwin. "I wish he could see it, I really wish he could be here," Irwin expressed, adding that he wanted to make his father proud through his dance journey.
The injury concerns were very real for Irwin heading into the final show. "I've been dealing with rib pain; it's been getting progressively worse," he confessed before performing. "If I pull something in the quickstep, I can't do the instant dance, I can't do the freestyle. But if I push any harder, my body's going to break."
Host Alfonso Ribeiro officially announced the results, declaring: "The winners and new champions of Dancing With the Stars are... Robert and Witney." The victory marks a significant achievement for Irwin, who has maintained his family's legacy in wildlife conservation while branching out into new entertainment ventures.
The three-hour marathon finale saw Irwin and Carson compete against four other celebrity-pro pairings: influencer Alix Earle, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, actor Elaine Hendrix, and Dylan Efron, brother of Hollywood star Zac Efron.
