Robert Irwin DWTS Journey

Robert Irwin has officially traded in his khakis for dancing shoes – and viewers are absolutely loving it. The 20-year-old wildlife conservationist, best known as the son of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, is making a splash on Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars (DWTS). In a twist of fate, Robert’s turn on the ballroom floor comes almost exactly ten years after his older sister, Bindi Irwin, wowed America and won the DWTS championship in 2015.

With his boundless energy, infectious smile, and genuine passion, Robert has quickly transformed from an Australia Zoo regular to a ballroom sensation. Week after week, he’s delivering impressive performances and high scores, all while honoring the Irwin family legacy. Many are calling Robert’s run the feel-good story of the season, and some say he’s on track to waltz away with the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.

Following in His Sister’s Footsteps

It’s hard not to compare Robert Irwin’s path to that of his sister Bindi. In late 2015, a then-17-year-old Bindi Irwin won over audiences on DWTS Season 21 with her charisma and heartfelt tributes. Paired with pro Derek Hough, Bindi delivered memorable routines and ultimately took home the Mirrorball Trophy.

Now, almost a decade later, Robert is having his moment on the very same show. His pro partner, Witney Carson, was also on the show during Bindi’s season. In a full-circle moment, Bindi’s former partner Derek Hough is now a judge on the panel, watching her little brother dance.

“There’s a sense of déjà vu,” judge Derek Hough said during the premiere episode. “Bindi’s spirit was so infectious back then, and now Robert has that same spark.” Fellow judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli have also noted the family resemblance in performance style, with both Irwin siblings sharing an enthusiastic energy that shines through in their dances.

From Wildlife Warrior to Ballroom Contender

Outside of the ballroom, Robert Irwin has spent most of his life as a “Wildlife Warrior,” growing up at the Australia Zoo and following in his legendary father’s footsteps. Dancing with the Stars is his first foray into competitive dancing, a world far removed from wrestling crocodiles.

According to Robert, it all started with a simple philosophy: say yes to new adventures. “This is completely outside my comfort zone,” he admitted in a pre-show interview. “I’ve never had any formal dance training. But when the invitation came, I saw an opportunity to connect with a new audience and push myself to learn a new skill.”

Paired with Witney Carson: A Dynamic Duo

Pro dancer Witney Carson, known for her bubbly personality and inventive choreography, was thrilled to be partnered with Robert. Their chemistry was evident from the start when Robert brought a blue-tongued skink lizard and a koala from Australia Zoo to their first rehearsal to break the ice.

Despite his lack of experience, Robert proved to be a natural. In the season premiere, the duo performed a high-energy Jive to a rock-n-roll classic. Dressed in a bedazzled version of his dad’s trademark khaki uniform, Robert kicked and flicked with impressive precision, ending with his father’s signature “Crikey!” pose. The judges were wowed, with Bruno Tonioli declaring him “like Tarzan in the ballroom—wild, but you’ve got style!”

As the weeks progressed, Robert tackled a variety of dance styles, from an elegant Foxtrot to a sultry Salsa, showing surprising versatility and earning his first “9” scores by Week 4. His natural showmanship and ability to bring storytelling to each routine made it clear he was a true contender.

Emotional High Point: A Tribute to Mom

Every season, DWTS features a “Most Memorable Year” night. While Bindi’s iconic 2015 tribute was to her late father, Steve, Robert chose to honor his mother, Terri Irwin. He dedicated his performance to 2006, the year his father passed away and his mother was suddenly tasked with raising two young children on her own. “Mum is my hero,” Robert explained. “After we lost Dad, she held us together and continued their dream at Australia Zoo.”

The performance was an elegant Waltz set to “You Raise Me Up,” performed as childhood photos of Robert and Terri flashed on the screen. When the dance concluded, Robert hugged Witney with tears in his eyes, while the camera showed Terri and Bindi crying in the audience. The judges were visibly moved, and the dance earned Robert the first “10” scores of the season. Later, Terri joined him backstage, saying, “Your dad would be so proud of you, Robert.”

Winning Hearts (and High Scores)

With each passing week, Robert’s performances have only grown stronger, and he has never landed in the dreaded “bottom two,” a testament to his overwhelming popular vote. His genuine, humble, and joyful personality has won over America. The fan frenzy is palpable, with social media flooded weekly with clips and messages of support for #TeamWildlife.

On fan forums, many believe Robert is the clear front-runner, citing the powerful narrative of his journey.

“It’s the perfect story: the second Irwin child joins DWTS exactly 10 years after his sister took home the mirrorball. Robert turns out to be a shockingly good dancer and an amazing performer, just like Bindi! ... If Robert wins, it would be the most perfect, full circle moment... There’s no way he doesn’t win... right?”

This sentiment echoes across the fan community—that Robert's story, combined with his genuine talent, has been building towards a "full-circle moment" for the Irwin family.

Heading into the Finale

As the competition heads into its final week, Robert Irwin has danced his way into the DWTS finals. If he wins, the Irwins would become the first-ever siblings to both be champions on Dancing with the Stars. The finale even coincides closely with Steve Irwin Day (November 15th), adding another emotional layer for the family and their fans.

Whether or not Robert wins the Mirrorball Trophy, he has made his family and fans worldwide immensely proud. He has evolved from a dance novice into a polished performer, sharing personal stories that have touched millions. Robert’s journey has been about stepping out of his comfort zone and into his own spotlight—and he’s done it with grace, heart, and a whole lot of “Crikey!” spirit.

Watch & Learn More

• Watch: Bindi Irwin’s Emotional Tribute Dance to Her Father (2015)
• Official Site: Dancing with the Stars on ABC
• Support the Cause: Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors
• ET Online: Robert Irwin on His Family's Support and DWTS Journey
• People.com: A Look Back at Bindi Irwin's Winning DWTS Run