In Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars, something extraordinary is happening. Among dazzling lights and celebrity sparkle, Robert Irwinâthe 21-year-old wildlife conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwinâhas become the emotional heartbeat of the show. Week after week, audiences are not just watching him dance; they are watching him heal, honor, and inspire.

đ A Star with Heart, Not Just Talent
From his very first jive to âBorn to Be Wild,â Robert proved he was more than a celebrity guest. Wearing his signature khaki outfitâa gentle tribute to his fatherâs legacyâhe filled the ballroom with energy and authenticity. Judge Derek Hough called it âthe best first dance Iâve ever seen on DWTS.â That moment set the tone: Robert wasnât there to impress; he was there to connect.
Since then, every performance has told a storyâone of family, courage, and vulnerability. When Robert dedicated a heartfelt routine to his mother, Terri Irwin, and his late father, even the judges wiped away tears. It was raw, pure emotionâa moment that transcended competition.
đ Global Love Across Generations
Social media is ablaze with admiration. Fans around the world, from Australia to the U.S., flood Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram with messages of love and gratitude. Many grew up watching Steve Irwin and now see his spirit reborn in Robertâgentle, humble, yet fiercely passionate.
Young viewers who never knew the âCrocodile Hunterâ are discovering Robert for the first time, calling him âthe kindest soul on TVâ and âthe most genuine person DWTS has ever seen.â
Fan-made edits, tribute videos, and hashtags like #TeamRobertIrwin and #DWTS2025Legend trend weekly. Itâs no exaggeration to say Robert Irwin has united generations through dance.
đ A Legacy of Grace and Authenticity
Technically, Robert has evolved remarkably under the guidance of professional dancer Witney Carson. Their chemistry and storytelling have made them one of the standout pairs this season.
But beyond flawless choreography, what sets Robert apart is his sincerity. He openly admits that ballroom dancing was far outside his comfort zone, yet he dives in with joy and humility. That honesty resonates deeply in a world where many performances feel rehearsed and polished.
He dances not just with stepsâbut with soul.

đïž Dancing for Legacy, Love, and Purpose
Robertâs journey is also a continuation of the Irwin family legacy. When his sister Bindi Irwin won the Mirrorball Trophy in 2015, she moved audiences with her tribute to their father. Now, a decade later, Robert follows in her footstepsânot to repeat history, but to expand it.
He represents everything the Irwins stand for: kindness, conservation, courage, and family. Each time he takes the stage, it feels like the world pausesânot to judge, but to cheer, to remember, and to feel.
đ The Most Beloved DWTS Contestant of All Time?
As Season 34 continues, Robert Irwin stands as the emotional centerpiece of Dancing with the Stars 2025. Judges praise his authenticity; fans praise his humility. Whether he wins the Mirrorball Trophy or not, his impact is undeniable.
Robert has reminded millions that dance isnât just about rhythmâitâs about heart. And in doing so, he may have already won something far more lasting: the love of the entire world.