“Dancing With the Stars” frontrunner Robert Irwin injured his ribs just hours ahead of the highly anticipated season finale.
Irwin’s pro partner, Witney Carson, revealed the concerning news via TikTok Monday night, sharing that both of their bodies are “falling apart” after 11 weeks of grueling dance rehearsals.
“Today at [camera] blocking is a little stressful because we just have to make the freestyle all come together. Robert’s ribs have been killing him and more will be revealed on Tuesday and you guys can get a better idea of what we’ve been dealing with all week,” Carson, 32 explained.
Due to the wildlife conservationist’s injury, the choreographer also shared that she had to “change some things” about their finale routines last minute, which has been “the most stressful part.”
Carson praised Irwin, 21, for pushing through pain and knows that despite the injury, “he’s going to want to practice until the very last second.”
The Australian TV personality has been a frontrunner and fan-favorite since the premiere of Season 34.
He especially stole viewers’ hearts with his “Dedication Night” routine, which was a tribute to his mom, Terri Irwin, and late dad, Steve Irwin.
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The emotional contemporary routine set to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be In My Heart” was in honor of his mom’s strength since the tragic death of his father in 2006. The beloved “Crocodile Hunter” was just 44 years old when he was fatally struck by a stingray barb.
“This is a moment with my mother that I will cherish forever,” Robert said in a video ahead of the dance. “And I know my dad would be so proud.”
If Robert does take the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy Tuesday night, he would be following in the footsteps of his older sisterm Bindi, who won Season 21 of the ABC show.
To conclude her tearful video, Carson gushed over the “beautiful, special experience” she’s had with Robert throughout this season of the dance competition show and said that she can’t believe is coming to an end.
