The finish line has arrived for season 34 of ABC’s beloved competition series “Dancing With the Stars,” and tonight’s three-hour finale promises one of the most demanding showdowns in the franchise’s history. After weeks of paso dobles, quicksteps, and unpredictable eliminations, finalists Elaine Hendrix, Alix Earle, Dylan Efron, Jordan Chiles, and Robert Irwin will return to the ballroom for their last chance at the coveted mirror ball trophy.
During the November 18 episode, cohost Alfonso Ribeiro teased an unprecedented twist, revealing that each couple will perform three routines: a Judges’ Choice, an Instant Dance set to a surprise song on live TV, and a freestyle.
“Next week, we’re taking over all of ABC in primetime with our most demanding season finale in the history of the show,” Ribeiro told the audience. “For the first time, we’ll have three rounds of competition.”
DWTS Odds Show Robert Irwin Leading the Finale Race
According to VegasInsider.com, wildlife TV presenter Robert Irwin currently leads the pack with +122 odds and an implied 45% chance of winning “Dancing With the Stars” season 34. His wide-reaching appeal and steady improvement appear to have resonated with both judges and fans.
A VegasInsider.com spokesperson explained why Irwin’s odds jumped following a major upset.
“In the wake of Whitney Leavitt’s surprising elimination—a reminder that high judges’ scores don’t always translate into viewer support—Robert Irwin has emerged as the clear favorite, with his odds of winning season 34 shortening to +122,” the spokesperson said. “Robert’s natural charisma has been evident since the very first episode, and his broad, cross-generational appeal could very well carry him to the win.”
Close behind is social media star Alix Earle with +200 odds (33%). With a massive online following and consistent dance scores, she remains a strong contender heading into finale night.
‘Dancing With the Stars’ Underdogs Could Still Shake up the Finale
Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles sits in third place with +500 odds (17%). Her athleticism, competitive drive, and crowd-pleasing routines have kept her firmly in the running.
But don’t count out the long shots. “The Traitors” winner Dylan Efron and actress Elaine Hendrix both enter the finale with +1900 odds (5%). While they haven’t been viewed as traditional frontrunners, their improvement arcs could surprise viewers.
“While neither Dylan nor Elaine have been considered a frontrunner,” the VegasInsider.com spokesperson added, “past editions have shown that audiences love rooting for an underdog and rewarding growth—so anything is possible come final night on the dance floor.”
The season 34 finale of “Dancing With the Stars” airs Tuesday, November 25, on ABC.
