“Dancing With the Stars” Season 34 Heats Up: Robert Irwin Faces Fierce Competition from Whitney Leavitt 🔥

Maks Chmerkovskiy Says Robert Irwin Isn't DWTS Frontrunner

Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars has reached a fever pitch — and at the center of the storm is Robert Irwin, the beloved son of the late Steve Irwin. From his first performance, Robert has captivated millions with his radiant smile, infectious energy, and rapidly improving dance skills. Social media has exploded with hashtags like #TeamRobert and #IrwinMagic, celebrating every time he steps onto the dance floor.

But a recent bombshell from former DWTS pro Maks Chmerkovskiy has shaken things up. During an appearance on Peta Murgatroyd’s podcast, The Penthouse with Peta, Maks made a bold claim: “Robert was never the frontrunner. As long as Whitney [Leavitt] is in the competition, he’s not leading.”

That single comment sent shockwaves through the DWTS fandom — and suddenly, the fan-favorite narrative wasn’t so clear.

Robert Irwin: The Fan-Favorite and Family Legacy 🌟

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From the moment Robert joined the cast, expectations were sky-high. As the younger brother of Bindi Irwin, who won Season 21’s Mirrorball Trophy, many assumed Robert would follow in her footsteps. Announced as the first celebrity contestant for Season 34, his involvement instantly fueled buzz and excitement.

Since then, Robert has delivered a string of standout performances — from fiery sambas to emotional tangos to inventive freestyles — proving he’s more than just a celebrity guest. Fans have flooded social media with admiration:

“He’s pure joy on stage!”
“Robert’s the heart of the show!”

His authenticity, charm, and deep connection to the Irwin family legacy have made him one of the most beloved contestants in recent DWTS history.

Maks Chmerkovskiy’s Controversial Take 💣

Maks’s statement, however, changed the conversation. “Robert isn’t the one to beat,” he said bluntly. “Whitney is the real frontrunner.”

Immediately, fan communities split in two. Team Robert fans defended their favorite, calling him the emotional core of the show, while others began rallying behind Whitney Leavitt, whose technical skill has earned consistent praise from judges.

The debate quickly spilled onto Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, where clips of both dancers are now being dissected frame by frame.

Whitney Leavitt: The Breakout Threat 💃

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A relative newcomer to casual DWTS viewers, Whitney Leavitt has emerged as the dark horse of the season. Week after week, her routines showcase near-flawless technique, emotional depth, and unmatched precision. Judges have praised her ability to combine artistry with discipline — a balance that makes her Robert’s toughest rival yet.

While Robert’s performances thrive on charm and connection, Whitney’s are about control and mastery. This contrast — passion versus perfection — has created one of the most exciting rivalries the show has seen in years.

The Road to the Finale: A Battle for the Ages 🏆

As the finale approaches, all eyes are on the freestyle round — the ultimate test of creativity, power, and heart. Maks predicted: “If Robert wants that Mirrorball, he’ll have to go all in against Whitney. No holding back.”

Behind the scenes, rehearsals are intense. Both contestants are pushing themselves harder than ever, determined to deliver performances that could make DWTS history. Fans are glued to every update, every rehearsal leak, every judges’ comment.

Online polls remain neck-and-neck, with Robert holding the edge in fan votes but Whitney dominating on technical scores.

What’s Next for DWTS Season 34?

Whether Robert Irwin’s heartfelt performances can overcome Whitney Leavitt’s technical brilliance remains to be seen. What’s undeniable is that both have elevated Dancing With the Stars to new emotional and artistic heights.

Robert represents the show’s heart — a genuine performer who dances with joy and purpose. Whitney embodies its soul — a dancer’s dancer, driven by perfection and discipline.

As the finale night draws near, one question remains:
Will the Mirrorball Trophy go to Robert, the fan-favorite legacy, or Whitney, the unstoppable powerhouse?

Whatever the outcome, Season 34 has already proven unforgettable — a season where passion, skill, and star power collide in spectacular fashion.