š The Mirrorball Moment: ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Ends Season 34 With Star-Studded Finale and a Historic Win
š The Mirrorball Moment: ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Ends Season 34 With Star-Studded Finale and a Historic Win
The ballroom shimmered one final time as Dancing With the Stars concluded its monumental Season 34 with a dazzling, three-hour finale on Tuesday, November 25, that delivered on its promise of being one of the most demanding and emotional showdowns in series history.
Five extraordinary couples—each representing a unique journey of growth, passion, and sheer dedication—vied for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy in a night packed with high-octane performances, emotional tributes, and the triumphant return of fan-favorite eliminated couples.
In a result that solidified his standing as one of the season's most beloved and consistent dancers, wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin and his professional partner Witney Carson were crowned the champions of Season 34!
The Grand Finale Showdown: Three Rounds of Perfection
In a historic twist, co-host Alfonso Ribeiro had revealed that the finale would feature three rounds of competition for the first time ever, demanding an unprecedented level of endurance, versatility, and focus from the finalists.
The pressure was palpable as the top five—Robert Irwin & Witney Carson, social media personality Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa, reality personality Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach, and actress Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten—took to the floor.
1. The Judges’ Choice: The Final Polish
The night kicked off with the Judges' Choice dance, where each judge selected an unlearned style for a finalist couple to perform. This round showcased the technical mastery they had acquired:
Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy opened with a sizzling Samba, chosen by Carrie Ann Inaba. The judges praised Alix's transformation and the high-level of content, earning them a perfect 30/30.
Robert Irwin & Witney Carson tackled a challenging Quickstep, selected by Derek Hough. Despite a reported rib injury, Robert attacked the routine with his signature energy, earning a near-perfect 29/30, with Derek proudly declaring him the "Quickstep King."
Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten danced a soulful Rumba, chosen by Derek Hough, which showcased Elaine's emotional depth and connection to the music, resulting in a perfect 30/30.
2. The Instant Dance: The Ultimate Test
The second round was the nail-biting Instant Dance, where couples were given a surprise song and dance style just moments before hitting the floor. This is a true test of a couple's partnership and ability to adapt under immense pressure.
Alix & Val drew a Cha-cha-cha, a dance they hadn't performed since Week 1. Val's choreography was brilliant, and Alix’s confidence shone through, securing their second perfect 30/30 of the night.
Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa finished this round with a powerful Instant Tango, an emotionally charged performance that impressed the judges with its precision and execution, resulting in yet another perfect 30/30.
3. The Freestyle: Leaving It All on the Floor
The final dance for the Mirrorball Trophy was the iconic Freestyle—the "anything goes" routine designed to encapsulate the celebrity's journey. These performances are often the most memorable of the season, and Season 34 did not disappoint.
Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach delivered a breathtakingly beautiful contemporary Freestyle. It was tender, sincere, and poetic, showcasing Dylan's emotional vulnerability and earning a standing ovation and a perfect 30/30.
Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten's theatrical Freestyle, set to "I Hope I Get It" from A Chorus Line, was a deliciously crafted nod to Elaine's acting roots, even featuring a surprise cameo from her The Parent Trap co-star Lisa Ann Walter. It brought Carrie Ann to tears and scored a perfect 30/30.
Robert Irwin & Witney Carson closed the competition with a dynamic, high-energy Freestyle. It blended ballroom moves with a contemporary feel, perfectly embodying Robert's fearless spirit and infectious joy. Their incredible journey culminated in a rousing performance and a perfect 30/30.
š Star-Studded Interludes and Emotional Returns
Beyond the five finalists, the three-hour spectacle was a true celebration of the season and the show’s legacy.
All nine eliminated couples returned to the ballroom for a series of high-energy, unforgettable group numbers. Seeing couples like Whitney Leavitt & Mark Ballas, Corey Feldman & Jenna Johnson, and Andy Richter & Emma Slater once again showcased the genuine bonds and camaraderie that had defined Season 34.
Even Season 33 champions, Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson, returned for a spectacular performance, reminding everyone of the incredible standard set by past winners. The finale was not just a competition; it was a reunion and a magnificent curtain call for the entire cast and crew.
The Announcement: A Poetic Victory
With the judges' scores and viewer votes combined, the moment of truth arrived, hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough. The final results were incredibly close—a testament to the high caliber of the final five.
Fifth Place: Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
Fourth Place: Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
Third Place: Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
Runners-Up: Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
The final spotlight fell on Robert Irwin and Witney Carson. The excitement was palpable as it was announced that Robert Irwin and Witney Carson were the Season 34 Champions!
Irwin's victory is particularly poignant, coming ten years after his sister Bindi Irwin won the competition. It was an emotional full-circle moment that paid tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin, who Robert frequently cited as his inspiration. He took home the highly sought-after Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, concluding a season that celebrated both incredible dancing and the power of personal growth under the bright lights of the ballroom.
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars proved that the combination of star power, stunning choreography, and heartfelt personal stories continues to make it one of television's most compelling reality competitions.
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