The Season 34 finale of Dancing With the Stars delivered one of the most electric nights the ballroom has seen in years, complete with showstopping routines, emotional performances, and a final leaderboard that kept viewers guessing until the last moment. From the first dance of the night to the closing announcement of the new Mirrorball champions, the episode showcased the heart, stamina, and talent that defined this season.
The ballroom glowed with the energy of a live three-hour event that featured five finalists, each arriving with their own momentum and dedicated fan base. With three rounds of competition—Judges’ Choice, Instant Dance, and Freestyle—the finale demanded versatility and near-perfect execution. Every couple knew that one slip could change the outcome. The pressure was high, the stakes were real, and the performances matched the moment.
Table of Contents
The Final Five Bring Their Best to the Ballroom
Season 34’s finale featured a diverse group of celebrities, each representing a different corner of entertainment and culture. The finalists included a wildlife conservation personality, a top social-media creator, a decorated Olympian, a reality-television figure, and an accomplished actress. Their backgrounds were different, but their shared commitment to the competition made for one of the strongest final groups in recent seasons.
The couples competing for the Mirrorball Trophy were:
- Robert Irwin & Witney Carson
- Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
- Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
- Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
- Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
Each pair had overcome their own challenges throughout the season. From early-season nerves to tough critiques to breakthrough performances, their journeys were filled with growth. The finale was their chance to show the complete transformation the show is known for.
A Finale Structured for High Drama
For the finale, the show followed a three-round structure that tested everything the couples had learned:
1. Judges’ Choice Dance
In this round, each couple repeated a dance style selected by one of the judges. The goal: to demonstrate improvement, polish, and the ability to incorporate detailed technical notes. This round often sets the tone for the rest of the night, and this finale was no exception. The top couples delivered crisp, refined routines.
2. Instant Dance
This round has quickly become a fan favorite and one of the most nerve-wracking for the competitors. The couples learned the style and music only moments before stepping onto the dance floor. It required instant adaptability, rhythm, and mental focus. For many viewers, this round revealed which couples had truly mastered their partnership.
3. Freestyle
The freestyle round is always the most anticipated. The rules disappear, the creativity expands, and the routines become pure entertainment. Freestyle performances often determine the winner, as they allow couples to express character, passion, and storytelling that go beyond traditional ballroom dance.
With viewer votes and judges’ scores combined, all three rounds carried significant weight. The finale made clear that no couple was guaranteed the win.
Standout Performances That Energized Season 34
The energy inside the ballroom was palpable from the start. Several performances stood out during the finale, but two couples in particular captured the judges’ attention early.
Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy Deliver a Perfect Moment
The pair’s opening samba lit up the ballroom. Clean footwork, sharp timing, and infectious energy made their first performance one of the most memorable moments of the night. Their charisma fed off each other, and the chemistry between Alix and Val reflected their season-long bond as partners.
Robert Irwin & Witney Carson Bring Heart and Precision
Robert and Witney, a fan-favorite pair, leaned into emotional expression and storytelling. Throughout the season, Robert had shown impressive growth, and his finale performances demonstrated newfound confidence. His partnership with Witney was built on trust, and it showed in their fluid transitions and poise.
Why the Judges’ Scores Were So Close
One of the standout characteristics of the Season 34 finale was the razor-thin margin between the scores. The judges’ panels rewarded technical excellence, performance quality, and growth—three criteria where multiple couples excelled. Rather than relying on standout “star performers,” this finale highlighted consistent excellence.
- Robert & Witney approached near-perfect technical execution.
- Alix & Val combined showmanship with precision.
- Jordan & Ezra brought athletic power and sharp choreography.
- Dylan & Daniella delivered high-energy routines that never faltered.
- Elaine & Alan leaned into personality, stage presence, and polished lines.
With such high-caliber performances, viewer votes became more crucial than ever.
A Mirrorball Trophy for the Champions
After the final scores were tallied and viewer votes locked in, the hosts announced the Season 34 Mirrorball champions:
Alix Earle & Val Chmerkovskiy
Their win marked a triumphant end to a season filled with determination and evolution. Alix came into the competition with no ballroom experience but quickly emerged as one of the season’s most improved performers. Her journey from newcomer to champion reflected the essence of what the show celebrates: growth, passion, and fearlessness.
Val Chmerkovskiy, one of the show’s most respected and accomplished professionals, added another Mirrorball to his storied career. His choreography this season blended modern flair with classic ballroom technique, helping bring out the strengths in his partner week after week.
What Set the Winners Apart
Several factors contributed to Alix and Val’s success:
1. Consistent Improvement
From Week 1 to the finale, their trajectory was upward. Improvement is a major factor both in viewer perception and in judge scoring.
2. Audience Connection
Alix’s authenticity and willingness to be vulnerable made her relatable. Fans rallied behind her, providing a powerful base of support during the live vote.
3. Clever Choreography
Val’s routines highlighted Alix’s strengths while gently expanding her technical boundaries. Their finale routines felt bold but comfortable.
4. Strong Freestyle Impact
Their freestyle performance—full of energy, rhythm, and personality—left a lasting impression and likely sealed their win.
How the Other Finalists Finished Strong
While Alix and Val took home the trophy, the remaining finalists delivered performances worthy of deep respect.
Robert Irwin & Witney Carson
Robert’s emotional range and commitment to each performance created a meaningful journey. His partnership with Witney was one of the most heartfelt of the season, and their finale dances demonstrated technique and soul.
Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa
Jordan’s Olympic background brought power and athletic flair. She showcased balance, rhythm, and explosive movement that made her one of the season’s standout performers.
Dylan Efron & Daniella Karagach
Dylan’s transformation was remarkable. His charisma and Daniella’s sharp choreography produced crowd-pleasing routines, especially in high-energy styles.
Elaine Hendrix & Alan Bersten
Elaine’s performances leaned into acting skill and expressive movement. Her chemistry with Alan helped create several memorable moments this season.
Season 34: A Reflection on the Journey
Season 34 offered a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and inspiration. The show honored two decades of success with tributes, returning faces, and nods to favorite themes. It also embraced the present era with modern music choices, viral-ready performances, and interactive viewer engagement through social platforms.
The Cast Diversity Enhanced the Season
Influencers, athletes, actors, and TV personalities brought unique perspectives and fanbases. This variety contributed to consistently high viewership and strong weekly voting participation.
The Ballroom Felt More Competitive Than Ever
Several couples delivered performances capable of winning a normal season. This made Season 34 unique—competition was fierce from beginning to end, with no clear early-season frontrunner. Every week mattered.
Looking Ahead: What the Victory Means
For the champions, this win marks the beginning of new opportunities:
- Media appearances
- Live tour invitations
- Brand partnerships
- Broader entertainment opportunities
Val’s status as a DWTS icon only grows stronger with another championship title, while Alix’s rise from digital creator to ballroom champion represents a major moment of mainstream expansion.
Final Thoughts
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars proved once again why the show remains one of the most beloved competition series in American television. The finale delivered excitement, artistry, athleticism, and emotional peaks that made every moment memorable. With new champions crowned and fan enthusiasm riding high, the ballroom feels more alive than ever.
Which performance was your favorite from the finale? Share your thoughts and join the discussion below!