Dancing with the Stars finalist Robert Irwin is facing a major setback, nursing a painful rib injury just hours before the show's grand finale. The revelation came from his professional dance partner, Whitney Carson, who shared an emotional update detailing the physical toll of the competition.
An Emotional Update from the Dance Floor
In a candid video posted on social media, Carson described how both she and Irwin are "falling apart" after 11 gruelling weeks of intense competition. She did not hold back about the wildlife warrior's condition, stating that his ribs have been "killing him" during their final rehearsals.
"Robert’s ribs have been killing him and more will be revealed on Tuesday," Carson said, hinting that viewers would soon get a clearer picture of the challenges they've faced. The injury has had immediate consequences, forcing last-minute changes to their highly anticipated freestyle routine.
Last-Minute Changes and Rehearsal Struggles
The rib injury has added a significant layer of stress to an already intense preparation period. Carson admitted she has been forced to modify choreography, a process made more complex because it involves other performers.
"I do have to change some things that involve the other dancers and involve the other guys so it’s just honestly the most stressful part," she explained. Despite the pain and the pressure, the determined pair pushed through their final camera blocking session.
Carson painted a vivid picture of exhaustion, describing herself as looking "wrecked" and stating, "This is what 11 weeks of crazy vigorous hard dancing looks like." She added, "We’re like kind of falling apart right now just trying to keep it together for like two more days."
Emotional and Physical Exhaustion Before the Finale
The physical strain is matched by the emotional toll of the competition's end. Carson confessed to breaking down in tears during rehearsals, overwhelmed by the culmination of their journey.
"I was so emotional yesterday I literally couldn’t stop crying," she admitted. "I think I’m emotionally and physically exhausted but also that this whole experience is coming to an end."
True to his resilient nature, Robert Irwin's dedication has not wavered. The pair rehearsed until the studio closed at 9pm the night before the finale, with Carson predicting they would continue to practise "till the very last second."
Ending her update with an urgent plea, Carson called Tuesday’s finale "the most important vote of the entire season," urging viewers to support their final performance.
