Ahead of the “Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 finale, fan-favorite competitor Robert Irwin said he has felt “ incredibly grateful ” for his experience on the series, particularly because of his newfound friendship with his Utah native dance partner , Witney Carson.

“I really feel like we’ve gained another Irwin family member,” the wildlife conservationist said of Carson, per “Entertainment Tonight.” Irwin added that Carson has take on a big sister-type role in his life.

He continued, “(Carson) is one of my absolute closest allies and best friends now. But also, from a dancing perspective, she’s given me this gift, this avenue to express parts of my story and myself that I never thought possible, and that is just something that I will remember and take with me.”

If Irwin and Carson

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