Season 34 of “Dancing With the Stars” has never been hotter. When Robert Irwin – son of the late Steve Irwin – hit the dance floor, millions of fans flooded social media with hashtags like #TeamRobert and #IrwinMagic. With his radiant smile and steadily improving dance skills, Robert turned every performance into a full-blown spectacle.

But recently, former pro Maks Chmerkovskiy dropped a shocker on Peta Murgatroyd’s podcast: Robert… isn’t the frontrunner. Immediately, the DWTS fan community split into two camps: one firmly supporting Robert, the other starting to bet on Whitney Leavitt – a competitor showing incredible consistency and technique.

So what’s the real story? And why is Robert Irwin, who seemed destined to win, suddenly not the top pick?

Robert Irwin: Fan Favorite and Irwin Family Icon

From day one, Robert has been a crowd favorite. As the younger brother of Bindi Irwin – who won the Mirrorball Trophy in Season 21 – expectations were sky-high. Robert was the first contestant announced for Season 34, generating early excitement and massive fan support.

His performances have consistently impressed judges and audiences alike: from fiery samba routines to emotional tango, to creative freestyle numbers, Robert proves he’s more than just a celebrity; he’s a legitimate dance competitor. Fans have flooded Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok with praise: “He’s a dancing genius!” “Robert is the heart of this season!”

Maks Chmerkovskiy: The Controversial Take

But Maks Chmerkovskiy has a different perspective: “Robert was never the leader of the pack. As long as Whitney is on, Robert isn’t leading.”

This statement, made on Peta Murgatroyd’s podcast The Penthouse with Peta, immediately ignited debate online. Fans of Robert reacted strongly: “No way! Robert is the fan favorite!” Meanwhile, Whitney supporters cheered: “Maks is right – Whitney is taking the lead!”

Whitney Leavitt: The Rising Threat

Whitney Leavitt – a relatively new face to many viewers – has emerged as the season’s dark horse. Her performances are technically flawless, emotionally engaging, and consistently impress the judges. While Robert relies on fan love and family fame, Whitney earns recognition through skill and execution, making her a formidable contender.

This dynamic has set up a dramatic rivalry: Robert, the beloved fan favorite, versus Whitney, the technically superior dancer. Social media buzzes with comparisons of every step, expression, and lift – fans can’t get enough.

The season’s climax will unfold during the high-stakes finale. Everything comes down to the freestyle routines – where creativity, technique, and charisma are crucial. Maks emphasizes: “If Robert wins, he’ll have to take Whitney head-on, giving it everything he’s got.”

Behind-the-scenes footage shows tense rehearsals, unexpected twists, and high-energy performances, keeping fans on edge. Who will claim the Mirrorball Trophy? Robert with the Irwin legacy or Whitney with her breakout performances?

The anticipation has reached a fever pitch. Social media is exploding with debates, polls, and predictions, making #DWTSSeason34 one of the most talked-about topics of the year.

Season 34 of “Dancing With the Stars” is shaping up to be unforgettable. Robert Irwin – despite Maks’ claim that he isn’t the frontrunner – remains the emotional heart of the season and the reason millions tune in each week. Whitney Leavitt, with her technical brilliance and steady performances, keeps fans guessing: who will truly take home the trophy?

One thing is certain: the finale will be a battle for the ages. Freestyle routines will decide everything, and both contestants have the chance to make history.

So, who will win? Robert, the fan favorite, or Whitney, the skillful powerhouse? The answer will only come on finale night – until then, anything can happen.