Robert Irwin’s ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Tribute to Terri Irwin: A Deep Dive into Family Legacy and Unwavering Strength

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Robert Irwin’s deeply moving contemporary routine on Dancing with the Stars, dedicated to his mother Terri Irwin and late father Steve Irwin, captivated audiences and judges alike, highlighting Terri’s extraordinary strength and unwavering commitment to her family and wildlife conservation.

The latest season of Dancing with the Stars delivered an unforgettable and deeply emotional moment during its “Dedication Night” episode. Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist and son of the legendary “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, took to the ballroom floor to honor his mother, Terri Irwin, in a performance that left viewers and judges in tears.

The contemporary routine, performed with his professional partner Witney Carson, was set to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be in My Heart.” It served not only as a tribute to Terri but also acknowledged the enduring legacy of his late father, who tragically passed away in 2006 when Robert was just two years old. The performance scored an impressive 35 out of 40 points, placing him joint-second on the leaderboard, with judges Kym, Bruno, and Derek each awarding nines, and Carrie Ann an eight.

Robert’s Heartfelt Homage to His Hero Mother

During his intro package for the dedication dance, Robert Irwin openly expressed his profound gratitude and admiration for his mother. He spoke candidly about the immense challenges Terri faced after Steve’s death, emphasizing her resilience in continuing their shared mission while raising two young children.

“She’s an absolute hero to me, because I was two when I lost dad,” Robert stated, his voice thick with emotion. “As I got older, I started to realize just how hard it would have been for her to be there for us, and all the while continue dad’s legacy that her and dad built together.” He added that he has “never been able to capture the feeling of gratitude” he feels for her unwavering presence. “At every milestone when I just wished that my dad was there, she was there. And that was enough.”

This sentiment resonated deeply, especially when Robert elaborated on Terri’s qualities. In a video shared by Parade, he described her as “so strong but also vulnerable and she’s funny, just everything I’d want to be in a person.” His dance partner, Witney Carson, was visibly moved by his words, remarking, “I hope my son says that about me. I love that.” Robert, ever gracious, immediately praised Carson’s own parenting, noting her grace in balancing multiple dance routines with her children at rehearsals.

Terri Irwin’s Enduring Strength and Legacy

Terri Irwin joined Robert in the rehearsal room, offering her perspective on the difficult years following her husband’s passing. She shared how Robert and his sister, Bindi Irwin, were her motivation to continue.

“After we lost Steve, it was difficult to smile again. For quite a while,” Terri recalled. “So for him to say, ‘you lifted me up,’ honestly, it was the opposite. Because of them, I could get up every morning. Every day I’m a proud mama.” Her quiet strength and steadfast commitment to her family and Australia Zoo have been a constant source of inspiration.

Robert Irwin, Witney Carson Photo by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images
Robert Irwin and his professional dance partner, Witney Carson, during their powerful contemporary routine.

Terri’s journey as a conservationist began long before she met Steve. Born in Eugene, Oregon, in 1964, she developed a passion for wildlife early in life. By the age of 20, she was managing her family’s business and operating Cougar Country, a wildlife rehabilitation organization caring for over 300 animals annually. Her life took a pivotal turn in 1991 when she met Steve in Australia. They married in 1992 and embarked on a life dedicated to wildlife documentaries and conservation.

Following Steve’s death, Terri took the helm of Australia Zoo, ensuring that every conservation project he initiated continued to thrive. Her dedication was recognized in 2009 when she received Australian citizenship and was made an Honorary Member in the Order of Australia for her contributions to wildlife conservation, as detailed on the Australia Zoo website. She continues to expand the family’s conservation legacy and is now a proud grandmother to Bindi’s daughter, Grace Warrior Irwin Powell.

An Emotional Impact Felt Across the Globe

The raw emotion of Robert’s performance was palpable, not just for the Irwins but for everyone watching. Judge Derek Hough, who himself danced with Bindi Irwin ten years prior when she won Dancing with the Stars, struggled to speak through his tears. “The love I have for your family. Thank you. I just have so much love for you guys,” Hough said, adding, “Man, I’m so proud of you. I really am. You’ve become such an amazing man and the world needs the Irwin family.”

Fans on social media echoed this sentiment, with many sharing their own tearful reactions. Comments like “Robert Irwin’s performance tonight just made me cry alone. So poignant, so raw,” and “Dedication night always has me crying. Robert was fantastic, the Irwin family is so loved!” flooded platforms. The dance concluded with Robert embracing his mother, crying into her arms, as the song’s lyrics “cause you’ll be in my heart, always” played, a moment that deeply resonated with countless viewers.

Robert also took the opportunity to broaden his dedication, stating that the dance was for “all the mums out there who don’t get the recognition they deserve,” and “for the single parents who work so hard every day to put one foot in front of the other.”

Robert Irwin, Terri Irwin and Bindi IrwinPhoto by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic
Robert Irwin, Terri Irwin, and Bindi Irwin embody the family’s enduring spirit and commitment.

The Irwin Family Legacy Continues to Inspire

Robert Irwin, born on December 1, 2003, has clearly inherited his parents’ passion. He has established himself as a talented wildlife photographer, a compelling TV presenter, and a dedicated conservationist. He actively participates in the family’s work at Australia Zoo and has been recognized as a Global Ambassador for Prince William’s Earthshot Prize. He also co-hosts I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, showcasing his diverse talents and commitment to his family’s mission, as noted on Australia Zoo.

This emotional tribute on Dancing with the Stars not only showcased Robert’s talent but also reaffirmed the profound bond within the Irwin family and their lasting impact on wildlife conservation. Just as Bindi honored her father years ago with her own memorable performance on the show, Robert’s dedication to his mother reinforces that the Irwin legacy of love, strength, and an unwavering commitment to the natural world continues to thrive.

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