The Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy: 7 Shocking Moments And The Surprising Winner Of Dancing With The Stars Season 34

Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) successfully wrapped up its thrilling 34th season on December 2, 2025, delivering an emotional and highly competitive finale that saw a fan-favorite celebrity take home the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. As of today, December 12, 2025, the dust is still settling on the incredible performances, shocking eliminations, and backstage gossip that defined the season, making it one of the most talked-about installments in the show's history. The latest season, which aired on ABC and Disney+, was a spectacular showcase of celebrity transformations, featuring a diverse cast from the worlds of sports, social media, and entertainment. From the first Cha-Cha to the final Freestyle dance, the competition was fierce, culminating in a finale that pitted five incredible couples against each other for the ultimate prize.

Dancing with the Stars Season 34 (2025) At a Glance

Season 34 of the American dance competition series premiered on September 16, 2025, and concluded on December 2, 2025. The season was marked by high scores, emotional tributes, and the return of a beloved judging panel and hosting duo.

• Winner: Robert Irwin and Witney Carson
• Runners-Up: Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy
• Finalists: Dylan Efron, Jordan Chiles, and Elaine Hendrix
• Hosts: Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough
• Judges: Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli
• Trophy: The Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy

The victory was particularly poignant for the Irwin family, as Robert became the second member of his family to win the competition, following in the footsteps of his sister. Robert Irwin, the son of the late Australian wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, proved to be a charismatic and technically proficient dancer, earning high praise for his emotional Contemporary and powerful Paso Doble routines.

The 5 Biggest Controversies and Most Memorable Performances of DWTS Season 34

Beyond the flawless footwork and dazzling costumes, Season 34 delivered its fair share of drama and unforgettable moments. The show thrives on its celebrity contestants pushing their limits, and this season was no exception, leading to a number of viral moments and heated discussions among fans and judges alike.

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1. Robert Irwin and Witney Carson's Emotional Freestyle: Widely regarded as the performance that sealed their win, the couple's final dance was a powerful, heartfelt routine that paid tribute to Robert’s late father, Steve Irwin. The judges, including Derek Hough and Carrie Ann Inaba, gave the performance a standing ovation, noting its perfect blend of technical skill and emotional resonance.
2. The Controversial Dance Marathon: A mid-season staple, the Dance Marathon saw all remaining couples compete simultaneously for extra points. The victory, which went to Leavitt and Ballas, sparked significant fan debate online. Many viewers disagreed with the judges' decision, arguing that other couples deserved the bonus points, adding a layer of drama to the middle weeks of the competition.
3. The Jen Affleck and Jan Ravnik Controversy: Celebrity Jen Affleck and professional dancer Jan Ravnik were at the center of a media buzz due to rumors of tension and conflicting creative visions. While the couple consistently delivered high-scoring routines, the whispers of backstage friction dominated tabloid headlines, creating a compelling narrative that captivated viewers throughout the season.
4. Alix Earle's Shocking Transformation: Social media influencer Alix Earle, paired with veteran pro Val Chmerkovskiy, entered the competition as a dark horse. Her journey was one of the season's most compelling arcs, as she overcame early struggles to deliver a stunning Viennese Waltz that proved she was a serious contender, ultimately landing her in the runner-up position.
5. Bruno Tonioli's Near-Perfect Score Meltdown: Known for his flamboyant judging style, Bruno Tonioli had a particularly dramatic moment during the Halloween-themed week. After giving a 10 to a celebrity's Tango that the other judges scored lower, his passionate defense of the dance became a viral clip, highlighting the subjective nature of the scoring system and the high stakes involved.

The Professional Dancers: The True Backbone of the Show

The success of every celebrity on DWTS rests squarely on the shoulders of their professional partners. Season 34 featured a lineup of seasoned veterans and rising stars who choreographed breathtaking routines across a wide range of styles, including the Quickstep, Jive, Salsa, and Foxtrot. The professional dancers are the unsung heroes, dedicating countless hours to transforming novices into ballroom stars.

The victory for Witney Carson with Robert Irwin solidified her status as one of the show's most successful female pros. Her innovative choreography and ability to connect with her partners consistently put her couples at the top of the leaderboard. Similarly, Val Chmerkovskiy once again proved his mettle by guiding Alix Earle to the final, showcasing his versatility and coaching expertise.

Other notable professional dancers who brought their A-game this season included Brandon Armstrong, Jenna Johnson, Artem Chigvintsev, and newcomer Jan Ravnik, whose routines were consistently praised for their complexity and artistic vision. The chemistry between the pros and their celebrity contestants is what truly drives the show's topical authority and keeps the audience tuning in week after week.

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What’s Next? Predictions and Rumors for Dancing with the Stars Season 35 (2026)

With the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy safely in Robert Irwin’s hands, the attention immediately shifts to the future. Fans are already speculating about the cast and format for Dancing with the Stars Season 35, which is expected to premiere in the fall of 2026.

Is DWTS Season 35 Confirmed?

As of this date, ABC has not yet made an official renewal announcement for Season 35. However, given the strong ratings and significant social media buzz generated by Season 34, a renewal is considered highly likely. The expected premiere window is mid-September 2026, maintaining the show's traditional fall launch schedule.

Who Will Host and Judge Season 35?

The successful pairing of co-hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough is expected to return for the next season. Their dynamic, which blends Ribeiro's comedic timing with Hough's professional dance insight, was a major highlight of Season 34. Similarly, the judging panel of Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli is anticipated to remain intact, continuing to provide their expert critiques and scores.

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Early Celebrity Rumors and Predictions

While no official cast announcements have been made, the rumor mill is already buzzing with potential celebrity contestants. Names frequently mentioned in fan predictions include reality stars, Olympic athletes, and actors looking for a career resurgence. The show's casting directors are known for their ability to pull in diverse and surprising talent, so the Season 35 lineup is sure to be one of the most anticipated reveals of the year.

The enduring appeal of Dancing with the Stars lies in its ability to deliver genuine, feel-good entertainment while showcasing incredible talent and transformation. Season 34 was a testament to this formula, and as the show looks ahead to Season 35, the legacy of the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy continues to inspire celebrity contestants and professional dancers to reach for perfection on the ballroom floor.