Robert Irwin Brings Wild Energy to Dancing With the Stars
The return of Dancing With the Stars this season has already given audiences plenty to talk about, but one performance in particular has stood out. Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin, made his debut on the show’s 34th season and delivered a routine that was nothing short of electric. His jive, performed with pro partner Witney Carson, was set to Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild,” and it wasn’t just the music that captured attention—it was Robert’s energy, his enthusiasm, and his surprisingly strong dance skills.
Dressed in a sparkly jungle-inspired outfit, Robert leaned into the fun, even channeling a bit of Hugh Jackman’s stage presence from The Boy from Oz. What made this debut even more remarkable is that Robert himself admitted he had “never moved to music in my life” before joining the competition. Yet, when the routine was over, judge Derek Hough declared it “the best first dance I have ever seen on the show.” The pair earned a score of 15 out of 20, tying for the top spot on the leaderboard.
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For longtime fans of the Irwin family, the emotional highlight came when Robert ran straight to his sister Bindi for a heartfelt hug after the performance. Bindi, who won Dancing With the Stars back in 2015, was visibly moved. Robert later explained that Bindi had told him, “This will feel like flying” —and in that moment, he said he finally understood what she meant.
It’s no secret that Dancing With the Stars has often been used as a stage for celebrities seeking to reshape their reputations. Past seasons have featured controversial names attempting to dance away scandals. But Robert Irwin doesn’t fall into that category at all. Instead, his wholesome image, his dedication to wildlife, and the enduring goodwill surrounding his family make his participation feel refreshingly genuine. There’s no redemption arc here—just a beloved young figure stepping into a new spotlight and thriving.
In the days leading up to his debut, Robert even shared videos of himself rehearsing with his niece, Grace Warrior, instantly winning hearts on social media. Add to that his recent work as the face of a Bonds underwear campaign—which managed to balance playful cheekiness with his down-to-earth charm—and it’s clear Robert has struck a rare balance of being both admired and adored.
Audiences have been quick to rally behind him, not only because he’s performing well, but because he represents something rare in reality TV: authenticity without scandal. His father, Steve Irwin, left behind a legacy that still resonates worldwide, and now Robert is showing that the Irwin family spirit of joy, energy, and connection continues to shine.
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