Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars has officially come to a close, marking one of the most memorable and competitive seasons in the show’s history. Each week brought record-breaking viewer votes and a cast that blended Reality TV star Whitney Levitt, wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, and social media sensation Alix Earle. Fans tuned in for powerhouse performances, emotional storytelling, and even a few injuries. Themed nights such as Wicked Night, Rock ’n’ Roll Night, and the 20th Birthday Celebration added creativity and nostalgia, especially when past contestants returned to the ballroom.
During the finale, the five remaining contestants: Alix Earle, Robert Irwin, Dylan Efron, Jordan Chiles, and Elaine Hendrix, competed for the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. They faced three rounds: the Judges’ Choice, the Instant Dance, and the Freestyle. Ultimately, Robert Irwin and his partner Witney Carson claimed the win. With this being the most competitive season yet, here are my top performances of Season 34.
10. Dylan Efron — Finale (Foxtrot)
In the finale, each couple drew a randomized dance style and song to perform live. Although Dylan Efron initially hoped to avoid the Foxtrot, his performance with partner Daniella Karagach became his strongest of the season. With a clean frame, precise footwork, and emotional depth, the routine earned a perfect score. Judge Derek Hough even called it “one of the best foxtrots by a man, ever.”
9. Whitney Levitt — Disney Night (Foxtrot)
Whitney Levitt and Mark Ballas stunned the audience with their Foxtrot to “The Room Where It Happens” from Hamilton. Levitt’s expressive showmanship and natural performance ability shone through. The choreography blended jazz and classic ballroom elements, creating a polished, Broadway-inspired routine that nearly earned a perfect score.
8. Alix Earle — Rock ’n’ Roll Night (Paso Doble)
By Week 8, Alix Earle and Val Chmerkovskiy had become a fan-favorite duo. Their Paso Doble to Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” delivered fierce energy, bold choreography, and a rock-chic aesthetic. Earle’s intensity and commitment made this one of her standout routines.
7. Alix Earle — Disney Night (Viennese Waltz)
Disney Night was filled with strong performances, but Earle’s Viennese Waltz as Maleficent stood above the rest. Dancing to Lana Del Rey’s “Once Upon a Dream,” she showcased her versatility by embracing a darker, more dramatic persona. The haunting storytelling and emotional depth helped solidify her place as one of the season’s most-voted-for contestants.
6. Whitney Levitt — TikTok Night (Samba)
One of the most viral performances of the season came from Levitt and Ballas’ Samba to Mystikal’s “Shake Ya’ Ass.” Their rhythmic precision, musicality, and high-energy choreography captivated viewers. The routine’s quick footwork and sharp hip action inspired countless recreations online.
5. Robert Irwin — Jive (“Born to Be Wild”)
In Week 1, Robert Irwin and Witney Carson delivered what Derek Hough called “the best first dance I’ve ever seen.” Their Jive to “Born to Be Wild” showcased Irwin’s natural charisma, sharp kicks, and dynamic lifts. From the very first episode, he established himself as a frontrunner.
4. Robert Irwin — Dedication Night (Contemporary)
Irwin’s Dedication Night performance left the ballroom in tears. Dancing to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be in My Heart,” he honored his mother, Terri Irwin, following the loss of his father, Steve Irwin. The choreography emphasized emotional storytelling and musicality. The moment culminated in Terri joining her son on the dance floor for a tearful embrace—one of the season’s most unforgettable scenes.
3. Jordan Chiles — Finale (Freestyle)
Jordan Chiles’ Freestyle to a mashup of “Motivation” by Normani and “Bow Down” by Beyoncé blended hip-hop, acrobatics, and explosive energy. Her commanding presence electrified the ballroom. The performance reached new heights when Normani herself stepped onto the dance floor, creating one of the most iconic Freestyles in show history.
2. Alix Earle — Finale (Freestyle)
Earle’s final dance, a mashup of “Maneater” by Nelly Furtado and “Sports Car” by Tate McRae was a popstar-level performance. Blending multiple dance styles, she delivered confidence, precision, and star power. The choreography was packed, detailed, and earned a perfect score.
1. Alix Earle — Viennese Waltz (“Purple Rain”)
Taking the top spot is Earle’s breathtaking Viennese Waltz to Prince’s “Purple Rain.” With cinematic lighting, elegant costuming, and sweeping choreography, the routine delivered romance, drama, and artistry. The judges awarded a perfect 30, and Carrie Ann Inaba declared it a dance that “will go down in history.” Earle didn’t just perform the steps, she embodied the character and transformed into a true dancer.
Honorable Mentions
Elaine Hendrix — Wicked Night (Contemporary)
Elaine Hendrix and Alan Bersten’s contemporary routine to “Defying Gravity” featured dramatic bodywork, intricate turns, and a striking trust fall. Hendrix’s Elphaba-inspired look and theatrical staging made the performance a standout of the themed night.
Whitney Levitt — Freestyle (Post-Show Performance)
Although not performed on the show, Levitt and Ballas’ Freestyle on the Call Her Daddy podcast deserves recognition. After discussing her struggles with cyberbullying, Levitt performed a deeply symbolic routine to Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” The choreography depicted online harassment through masked dancers, culminating in a powerful moment of resilience. The emotional storytelling left fans stunned and showcased Levitt’s strength beyond the ballroom