Robert Irwin has quickly emerged as the breakout star of Dancing with the Stars Season 34, charming audiences and fellow celebrities alike with his genuine personality and impressive dance skills. From unexpected endorsements by past contestants like Kate Flannery to heartfelt praise from his pro partner Witney Carson, and even a nod from cohost Julianne Hough, Irwin’s journey is defined by widespread support, a strong family legacy, and an undeniable ‘Irwin aura’ that has captivated fans, even amid debates over his scoring.
As Dancing with the Stars Season 34 continues its dazzling run, one contestant has undeniably captured the spotlight and the hearts of millions: Robert Irwin. The young conservationist, son of the legendary Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, has proven himself a natural talent on the ballroom floor. More than just his dance moves, it’s his inherent kindness, infectious enthusiasm, and deep family values that have cemented his status as a fan favorite, drawing praise from across the DWTS community.
Unexpected Endorsement: Kate Flannery Crowns Robert Irwin ‘Tough’
The buzz around Robert Irwin recently intensified following an unexpected run-in with The Office alum and DWTS Season 28 competitor, Kate Flannery. Over a weekend, the two had a chance meeting at what appeared to be the Los Angeles tailor shop Onik Design, where they stopped to capture a few memorable photos. Flannery, who was eliminated in Week 8 of her season, quickly took to Instagram to share her delight and endorse the rising star.
Flannery’s caption, “Ran into this gem today. He’s tough, like me,” immediately resonated with fans. She enthusiastically encouraged her followers to “You better vote!” for Irwin, concluding with a powerful endorsement: “Don’t mess with Parade.” The sentiment was echoed by Robert Irwin himself, who gushed, “You’re the best!!!!” in response, while his mother, Terri Irwin, added a loving, “Love you!💕.”
Fans were quick to embrace this unexpected crossover, with many dubbing the duo a “dream team i didn’t know i needed.” However, the post also sparked a familiar debate among viewers. When judge Carrie Ann Inaba commented, “The duo that makes us smile! ❤️❤️❤️,” many fans responded with frustration, feeling that Irwin’s recent performances, including his widely praised Wicked routine which earned unanimous nines, have been consistently underscored. Comments like “then score him like it tf?😭” highlighted the ongoing fan desire for perfect scores for the young conservationist.
The Irwin Aura: Family Values and Heartfelt Dedications
It’s not just fellow contestants who are captivated by Robert Irwin. His professional dance partner, Witney Carson, has openly praised the entire Irwin family, describing them as having an undeniable “Irwin aura.” In an interview after their Disney Night cha cha performance for Week 4, Carson shared her admiration: “The whole Irwin family, I just want them around me at all times because they just make everyone feel better, and they’re amazing. I don’t know how your mom did it, but she’s incredible the way that she raised you both.”
This genuine admiration extends to the strong bond between Robert and Witney, which many fans describe as an “older sister and younger brother” dynamic, with Carson often acting protectively. This family-centric approach is deeply ingrained in the Irwins, as Terri Irwin raised Robert and his older sister Bindi alone after the tragic passing of their father, Steve Irwin, in 2006.
The family’s connection to DWTS runs deep; Bindi Irwin famously won Season 21 with partner Derek Hough, who now serves as a judge on Season 34. Robert is following in her footsteps, with his family even temporarily relocating from Australia to support his journey. He plans an emotional dedication in Week 5, performing a contemporary dance to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be In My Heart” as a special tribute to his mom, Terri.
Beyond the Ballroom: Chippendales, Youth, and Unwavering Focus
Robert Irwin’s growing celebrity status has also led to some unexpected attention. DWTS cohost Julianne Hough recently weighed in on the widespread fan adoration for the 21-year-old Australian. Speaking with TMZ, Hough playfully acknowledged the “older millennial group of women trying to do the math to see if that’s appropriate or not,” before concluding it “probably isn’t.”
Hough also expressed her pride in Irwin’s decision to decline an offer from Chippendales to join them in Las Vegas, affirming, “I think that’s the right choice.” Despite the playful nature of her comments, Hough was quick to praise his undeniable talent, stating, “He’s killing it. He’s amazing.” This highlights Irwin’s commitment to his conservation work and his wholesome image, choosing to focus on his dance journey and family legacy over other opportunities.
What’s Next for the Fan Favorite
With Robert Irwin consistently delivering impressive performances and captivating audiences, the anticipation for his future on Dancing with the Stars is palpable. Following his much-discussed Wicked performance, he and Witney Carson are set to tackle Halloween Night. Fans eagerly await to see what “spooky steps” the duo will pull off next, confident that Irwin’s blend of talent, charm, and authenticity will continue to make him a standout contender for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
