Robert Irwin Honors Late Dad with Touching “DWTS” Rituals
Robert Irwin has captivated the nation, not just with his dance moves on Dancing With the Stars but with a heartfelt tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin. The 21-year-old wildlife warrior revealed the personal rituals he performs before each DWTS performance, leaving fans both teary-eyed and inspired.
A Shirt That Holds a Legacy
On November 16, Robert shared a TikTok video explaining his pre-show good luck charms. The first is his father’s green button-up shirt, tattered and missing buttons.
“I found this shirt while going through my dad’s things,” Robert explained. “It has holes and tears, but each tells a story. It’s exactly how Dad lived his life.”
He patches it, but not too much—wanting it to remain authentic. Before every rehearsal with partner Witney Carson, he wears the shirt.
“It’s like a big hug from him,” he said. “When I step into the ballroom, I carry my dad’s legacy, my family, and my home.”
A Ring Forged from Memories
The second charm is a custom gold ring. Robert melted down old keys from the family’s first home and forged them into a ring, engraved with “1638,” the address of Australia Zoo on Steve Irwin Way.
“It connects me back to my childhood, my dad, and my family,” Robert shared. “I know I wouldn’t be here without him and the legacy I get to continue.”
Bindi Joins for an Emotional Dance
The tribute extended beyond rituals. On the November 11 episode, Robert dedicated a foxtrot to his father, set to Leona Lewis’ Footprints in the Sand, the same song Bindi danced to in her DWTS season 21 finale.
In a stunning moment, Bindi joined Robert on stage. He collapsed to the floor, overcome with emotion, while Witney and Bindi knelt beside him. A video montage of Steve Irwin appeared on the screen, adding to the powerful scene.
Robert reflected on Instagram:
“This dance was emotional, beautiful, and deeply meaningful. I carry Dad’s legacy with me in everything I do.”
A Family Affair
The emotional performance included family support. Four-year-old niece Grace, in a green butterfly gown, cheered for her uncle. Bindi dazzled in a sparkling black dress, with her husband Chandler Powell in a matching suit.
Even a surprise video from Prince William added magic to the night. “We’re missing you, Robert,” the prince joked, leaving Robert touched and laughing.
Dancing a Legacy Forward
Originally expected in Brazil for the Earthshot Prize, Robert stayed in the U.S. to compete on DWTS. Beyond the ballroom, he continues his conservation work through Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors.
Through each step, spin, and heartfelt moment, Robert Irwin proves that legacy isn’t just the past—it’s a story he’s dancing into the future.
