Robert Irwin and Witney Carson's Winning Dance Journey

Robert Irwin, a 21-year-old conservationist, made history by winning "Dancing with the Stars" season 34 alongside his dance partner, Witney Carson. Despite a painful rib injury, Irwin and Carson managed to secure the Mirrorball trophy, beating out other talented finalist pairs like Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy, Dylan Efron and Daniella Karagach, Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa, and Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten. The duo had to adjust their final freestyle dance due to Irwin's injury, which made breathing difficult at times. Carson prioritized Irwin's health, removing a tricky move that aggravated his ribs. However, they pulled off their three finale dances, including a quickstep, a cha cha, and a freestyle, which Irwin described as a "thank you" to everyone who supported them on their dancing journey. Winning the Mirrorball trophy was Carson's second time earning the title as a pro dancer. She won her first trophy in season 19 with Alfonso Ribeiro, who now co-hosts the show. Carson said it felt different this time around, as she now has kids and a husband to celebrate with. Irwin also followed in his sister Bindi Irwin's footsteps, who won the trophy 10 years ago. The season 34 finalists flew overnight from Los Angeles to New York to appear live on "Good Morning America. " Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy described their journey on the show as humbling, with Earle crediting Chmerkovskiy for pushing her along. Dylan Efron, the younger brother of actor Zac Efron, said it took him a while to get comfortable on the ballroom floor but enjoyed the experience. Jordan Chiles, a full-time student and college athlete, called the entire experience amazing. Elaine Hendrix, one of the older contestants on the show, shared that it's never too late to chase your dreams, with her partner Alan Bersten cheering her on throughout the journey.