Elaine Hendrix, Robert Irwin & Jen Affleck Dazzle on DWTS Dedication Night

Tuesday night turned into an emotional showcase when Elaine Hendrix, a veteran actress best known for The Parent Trap, took the floor with pro dancer Alan Bersten during Dedication Night of ABC's Dancing With The Stars (Season 34, Episode 5). The broadcast, which aired at 8:00 PM ET on October 15, 2025, was simultaneously streamed on Disney+ and, a day later, on Hulu. Each of the three featured celebrities danced for someone who shaped their lives, turning a familiar competition into a heartfelt tribute.

What is Dedication Night?

Since its third season, DWTS has sprinkled the calendar with a Dedication Night — a mid‑season installment where contestants perform dances that honor loved ones, mentors, or causes. The concept grew out of the show’s early “family night” episodes, evolving into a full‑blown emotional centerpiece that often spikes social‑media chatter. In 2025, the format returns for the fifth time in Season 34, echoing moments like the 2020 tribute to frontline workers during the pandemic.

Performance Highlights

Robert Irwin, the 21‑year‑old Australian conservationist, partnered with Witney Carson for a Contemporary routine to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be In My Heart.” The 1‑minute‑37‑second piece was a moving homage to his mother, Terri Irwin, whose work at Australia Zoo has become a global conservation benchmark. “I wanted the choreography to feel like a hug that never lets go,” Irwin told the judges backstage.

Meanwhile, Jen Affleck, known for her roles on various TV dramas, teamed up with Jan Ravnik for a Viennese Waltz set to Lauren Daigle’s “Rescue.” At 1‑minute‑36 seconds, the dance celebrated her mother, Maria. Affleck whispered to the camera, “Every lift felt like I was carrying my mom’s love up to the sky.”

Hendrix’s Foxtrot, the opening act, was a breezy 1‑minute‑34‑second spin to Natalie Cole’s “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love).” She dedicated the routine to her longtime friend Lisa Ann Walter, also an actress and co‑star on the 1998 remake of The Parent Trap. “Lisa’s been my rock for three decades,” Hendrix said, smiling between takes. The ballroom was bathed in a soft gold light that seemed to echo the song’s romantic optimism.

Judges’ Feedback and Scores

Judge Tyra Banks, a veteran of the show’s most memorable nights, praised Irwin’s “raw vulnerability” and awarded a near‑perfect 9.2. “You made the audience feel the heartbeat of the earth,” she noted, referencing his wildlife background.

Season 34’s new judge, former Olympic gold‑medalist Al Jaffe, gave Affleck a 9.0, highlighting the “technical precision that never lost the emotional core.” He added, “You turned a waltz into a rescue mission for the soul.”

Hendrix received an 8.8 from Len Elkins, who commended the chemistry with Bersten. “There’s a genuine friendship that shines through each turn,” he said.

Viewer Reception and Ratings

According to Nielsen, the episode drew 9.3 million live viewers across ABC and Disney+, a modest rise of 3.4 % from the previous week. Streaming data shows Hulu recorded 1.2 million minutes watched within 24 hours of the re‑air, indicating strong delayed‑viewing interest. Social‑media sentiment analysis conducted by Brandwatch logged a 78 % positive tone, with hashtags #DWTSDedication and #ElaineHendrix trending in the US for four consecutive hours.

• Live viewership: 9.3 million (ABC + Disney+)
• Streaming minutes on Hulu (first 24 h): 1.2 million
• Top tweet: “Robert’s dance gave me chills – love the Irwin family!”
• Average score from judges: 8.9

What’s Next for Season 34?

The next episode, slated for October 22, 2025, promises a “Music‑Genre Mash‑Up” challenge, where contestants will blend two contrasting styles in a single routine. Sources close to the production say the show’s writers are eyeing a “charity showdown” for the season finale, potentially linking the competition to wildlife‑conservation funds — a move that would dovetail nicely with Irwin’s eco‑advocacy.

Historical Perspective on Dedication Night

When the first dedication‑themed episode aired in 2007, it featured a tribute to a contestant’s late mother that “brought tears to the studio audience.” Since then, the segment has become a staple, appearing in roughly 30 % of the show’s 34 seasons. Notable past dedications include a 2016 performance by Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps honoring his coach, and a 2021 dance by actress Priyanka Chopra that highlighted her work with UNICEF.

Key Facts

• Date aired: October 15, 2025 (Live) – October 16 on Hulu
• Featured celebrities: Elaine Hendrix, Robert Irwin, Jen Affleck
• Dance styles: Foxtrot, Contemporary, Viennese Waltz
• Music selections: Natalie Cole, Phil Collins, Lauren Daigle
• Dedications: Lisa Ann Walter, Terri Irwin, Maria Affleck