AceShowbiz - Witney Carson recently opened up about why she missed the Dancing With the Stars tour stop in Utah, offering her fans an apology and explanation via social media.

On Saturday, May 2, the professional dancer shared a heartfelt message on her Instagram Story to her Utah followers, saying, "Utah peeps. I'M SO SORRY I CAN'T be there for the Utah shows. I had the Steve Irwin Gala performance with Robert [Irwin] booked last year." She expressed her wish to be in two places at once, emphasizing her love and appreciation for her fans in Utah.

Witney Carson attended the Steve Irwin Gala alongside her husband Carson McAllister and their two children, sons Leo, 5, and Jet, 2. The event honors the legacy of the late wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, who tragically passed away in 2006 after a stingray injury while filming a documentary on the Great Barrier Reef.

Sharing several clips from the gala, Carson wrote, "At the Steve Irwin Gala tonight supporting our favorite family! Such an honor to be here." The gala is a significant event that celebrates the work and memory of the Irwin family, including Steve’s son, Robert Irwin, who was also involved in the event.

Carson joined the Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) tour as a special guest from April 21 to April 30, performing alongside Robert Irwin, who is not only her former dance partner but also the winner of DWTS season 34. Their partnership and performances received praise, especially their final freestyle routine, which Robert described on Good Morning America in November 2025 as their way of thanking everyone for their support throughout the journey.

For Witney Carson, winning the Mirrorball Trophy this time was a notably different experience from her first win. She originally won the trophy in 2014 with then-host Alfonso Ribeiro. Reflecting on her journey, Carson said, "The first time I won, I was 19 years old - and now I'm 32. I have kids now, and to celebrate with them and my husband was so special."

Her recent victory on DWTS season 34 was an emotional milestone, with Carson sharing her gratitude in an Instagram video posted on November 27, 2025. She described being overwhelmed with adrenaline and appreciation for the messages she received following the win.

Since the conclusion of season 34, ABC has announced the return of Dancing With the Stars for season 35. Exciting new celebrity contestants for the upcoming season include Ciara Miller and Maura Higgins. Additionally, Robert Irwin will be hosting a spinoff show titled Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro, which aims to discover the next professional dancer for the main DWTS program.

The spinoff will feature 12 talented dancers living together and competing through a demanding audition process. The goal is to secure a coveted spot on the season 35 roster of professional dancers. Alongside Robert, pro dancer Mark Ballas and his mother, Shirley Ballas, will join the spinoff series as judges. The show is slated to premiere this summer.

Witney Carson’s absence from the Utah tour dates was ultimately due to her prior commitment to the Steve Irwin Gala, a cause close to both her and Robert Irwin. Although she could not attend the Utah shows, her fans have continued to show support for her diverse endeavors both on and off the dance floor.

This explanation sheds light on the professional and personal priorities that shaped Carson’s schedule during the DWTS tour, reflecting her dedication to both her family and meaningful charitable causes.