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DWTS Finale Drama: Judge Booed for Critique of Robert Irwin

DWTS Finale Drama: Judge Booed for Critique of Robert Irwin
Editorial
  • PublishedNovember 26, 2025

UPDATE: An unexpected showdown unfolded during the Dancing With the Stars Season 34 finale on October 30, 2023, when judge Carrie Ann Inaba faced a chorus of boos after critiquing frontrunner Robert Irwin. The highly anticipated event was charged with emotion as Irwin and his partner Witney Carson kicked off the night with an electrifying quickstep to Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl,” earning a near-perfect score of 29 from the judges.

As the crowd roared with approval, Inaba’s forthcoming critique changed the atmosphere dramatically. She began by praising the performance as “amazing” and “wonderful,” but when she hinted at a critique, the audience erupted in boos. The moment was so intense that host Alfonso Ribeiro had to redirect the broadcast to the skybox for a chat with Julianne Hough while the backlash continued.

Inaba attempted to regain control, laughing nervously as she explained, “I don’t want to give it to anybody who doesn’t absolutely deserve it.” She reassured viewers that her critique did not diminish Irwin and Carson’s strong performance but insisted on honesty in her judging.

Despite the uproar, Robert and Witney scored highly, with Inaba’s score being the only dissenting vote. In a heartfelt moment backstage, Irwin expressed gratitude to Carson for believing in him. He reflected on his journey, saying dance was the last thing he ever envisioned for himself, and honored his family as his greatest support.

This dramatic moment in the ballroom adds to the ongoing excitement of the Dancing With the Stars finale, captivating fans and drawing significant attention on social media platforms. Viewers are left eager to see how this season will conclude and what this means for the future of the competition.

Stay tuned for more updates as the finale progresses and we learn who will take home the coveted mirrorball trophy!

Editorial
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Editorial

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