UPDATE: Just moments after winning the Dancing With the Stars season 34 finale on November 25, 2023, Robert Irwin revealed his next big move: a trip to South Africa for a new television show. The 21-year-old conservationist and dancer, who partnered with Witney Carson, shared the news with E! News shortly after the live broadcast, emphasizing the rapid transition from the dance floor to international filming.
Irwin stated, “I actually go to New York and then straight to South Africa to film another show over there. And then I’m back home.” His whirlwind schedule comes directly after a grueling 11-week dance competition that tested his physical limits, especially following a recent rib injury.
Despite the challenges, Irwin and Carson claimed victory with a perfect score of 30 in their freestyle and cha-cha-cha performances. The win echoes a familial celebration, marking a decade since Irwin’s sister, Bindi Irwin, triumphed in the same competition alongside judge Derek Hough.
The night was not without tension. Just hours before the finale, Carson expressed her concerns over Irwin’s health due to his rib injury. “Robert’s ribs have been killing him,” she revealed in a TikTok video, detailing the stress of preparing for the live show. Carson stressed the importance of Irwin’s well-being, saying, “At the end of the day, his health is my priority.”
The injury, described by Irwin as a significant issue, stemmed from rehearsals leading up to the final performances. “I’ve been dealing with rib pain because the intercostal muscles of the ribs are under a lot of tension,” he explained in an emotional video segment aired during the finale. Carson, who was visibly worried for her partner, noted they had to adapt their routines due to his condition. “We’re gonna have to run it a lot and just make sure everything is coming together,” she said as they prepared for the final showcase.
As viewers tuned in to see who would take home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy, Irwin and Carson’s journey captivated fans. They ultimately outperformed competitors like influencer Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy, who finished second, and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles with Ezra Sosa in third.
Looking ahead, Carson confirmed her plans to reunite with Irwin next spring, stating, “You’re not getting rid of me that easy!” This commitment underlines the strong partnership that has developed over their time together on the show.
As Irwin prepares for his next project, fans are left to reflect on his incredible journey and the emotional investments behind the scenes, especially concerning his injury and the pressures of performance.
The latest developments in Irwin’s career and health are drawing significant attention as he transitions from the dance floor to new horizons. Stay tuned for updates on Irwin’s upcoming shows and possible collaborations with Carson as they continue to impress audiences worldwide.
This breaking news serves as a reminder of the rigorous demands placed on reality TV contestants and the resilience required to succeed in high-pressure environments. Share your thoughts on Irwin’s victory and upcoming endeavors with us!
