Dancing with the Stars season 34 kept viewers buzzing on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, with its first-ever TikTok Night. While the evening featured high-energy routines set to viral hits, it was Robert Irwin’s bold performance with pro partner Witney Carson that left both the ballroom and fans at home in awe.
Robert Irwin Turns Up the Heat
The 21-year-old wildlife conservationist danced a Salsa to Tommy Richman’s 2024 hit “Million Dollar Baby.” Midway through the number, Irwin ripped off his shirt, showing off a toned physique and sending the audience into a frenzy. “The screams certainly marked the loudest of the night,” reported on-site accounts, as fans cheered wildly from the floor and backstage.
Just Jared highlighted how Irwin’s moment quickly went viral, with clips spreading rapidly across social media. The shirtless reveal not only played into TikTok’s theme of surprise-driven entertainment but also showcased Irwin’s commitment to pushing himself as a performer. The routine underscored his chemistry with Carson, who kept up with the fast Salsa choreography while hyping the crowd reaction.
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Inside the Ballroom: What Fans Didn’t See
PEOPLE reporters in the audience described TikTok Night as a nonstop wave of energy. Contestants performed Cha Chas, Foxtrots, and more to songs that had gained traction on the platform, creating an atmosphere that felt both modern and nostalgic for fans scrolling at home. Beyond the cameras, Irwin’s shirtless stunt had the cast buzzing backstage, where the screams from the crowd were still echoing long after the performance ended.
Family members also made their way into the ballroom to cheer on the season’s stars, adding another layer of excitement. In Irwin’s case, the support reflected the same enthusiasm that has followed him since his debut on the show.
Shocking Elimination Stirs Fans
But not every moment on TikTok Night was met with applause. As reported by TooFab, the elimination left many viewers “pissed” when a fan-favorite contestant was sent home. The decision underscored how unpredictable season 34 has been, with the competition intensifying as more celebrities find their footing on the dance floor.
Social media reactions were swift, with fans expressing frustration at the result. Still, the controversy kept the spotlight on DWTS, ensuring TikTok Night will be remembered as one of the most talked-about evenings of the season.
Dancing with the Stars Season 34: What’s Next?
With TikTok Night wrapped, contestants now face even steeper expectations. For Irwin, his breakout Salsa not only won over fans but also established him as one of the season’s boldest performers. Whether he can ride the momentum to the finals remains to be seen, but his willingness to take risks has made him a standout in the cast.
Dancing with the Stars continues next week with new themes and another round of eliminations. After Irwin’s viral moment, anticipation is high to see which celebrity will raise the bar next.
DWTS is proving once again why it remains a cultural force — balancing nostalgia, controversy, and viral-worthy performances that keep audiences invested week after week.
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