On a poignant “Dedication Night” during Dancing With the Stars, Robert Irwin delivered a truly unforgettable contemporary routine, honoring his incredible mother Terri Irwin and the enduring spirit of his late father, Steve Irwin. The performance, set to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be in My Heart,” moved judges, fellow competitors, and millions of viewers to tears, further cementing the Irwin family’s beloved place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
The ballroom of Dancing With the Stars was enveloped in emotion during “Dedication Night,” as wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin took to the stage for a performance that resonated far beyond the dance floor. Partnered with Witney Carson, Robert, 21, performed an exquisite contemporary routine to Phil Collins’ iconic “You’ll Be in My Heart,” a song instantly recognizable from the 1990 Disney film, Tarzan.
This wasn’t just any dance; it was a profound tribute, dedicated primarily to his mother, Terri Irwin, acknowledging the immense strength and unwavering spirit she has shown since the tragic death of his father, Steve Irwin, in 2006. The beloved “Crocodile Hunter” was only 44 when he was fatally struck by a stingray barb, leaving a void felt globally.
A Son’s Heartfelt Gratitude for His ‘Absolute Hero’
Ahead of the performance, Robert Irwin opened up about his deep admiration for his mother. “I was 2 when I lost dad, and 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,” Robert shared during rehearsals. His gratitude was palpable, reflecting on the immense challenge Terri faced.
Terri herself reflected on the profound loss, recalling, “When they told me about Steve’s accident, it completely broadsided me, because Steve was only 44 years old. It was kind of unreal for Bindi.” Despite the heartbreak, she found strength in her children. “After we lost Steve, it was difficult to smile again. For quite a while. 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,” Terri stated, as reported by People magazine.
The routine was a culmination of a “tough week” for Robert, who admitted to tapping into emotions he hadn’t shared publicly before. “I’ve been thinking a lot about my dad, I’ve been thinking a lot about the highs and the lows, the grief, the way my mom has helped me navigate that,” he revealed.
A Family United: Terri Joins Robert on Stage
The emotional impact of the performance was magnified when Terri Irwin joined her son and Witney Carson on stage at the very end of the routine. The moment culminated in a heartfelt hug between mother and son, with Robert visibly in tears, and Terri also wiping away her own. This powerful visual representation of their bond left scarcely a dry eye in the entire studio audience.
Judges and Family Overwhelmed with Love
The judges were profoundly moved by Robert’s dedication. Bruno Tonioli, fighting back tears himself, praised Robert, saying, “Robert — he’s looking at you, kid, and he’s smiling. You gave us all of your heart and soul. All I can say this was the true expression of everlasting love.” Carrie Ann Inaba added a deeply personal touch, stating, “I’ve never had kids, but Terri, I have to say, if I could have had kids, I would like him to be like that.”
The performance hit particularly close to home for judge Derek Hough, who previously won the mirrorball trophy with Robert’s older sister, Bindi Irwin, during season 21 of DWTS. Visibly choked up, Hough expressed the immense love he holds for the Irwin family. “The love I have for your family — I just have so much love for you guys. Man, I’m so proud of you. I really am, you’ve become such an amazing man, and the world needs the Irwin family,” Hough shared, as detailed by Entertainment Weekly.
The judges’ admiration was reflected in the scores, with Robert and Witney earning a season-high 35 out of 40 points, a testament to the powerful blend of technical skill and raw emotion. Even Bindi Irwin, who was in the ballroom to support her brother, experienced her own emotional “Dedication Night” in 2015, dedicating her performance to their late father, Steve Irwin.
A Frontrunner and a Fan Favorite
Beyond the emotional depth, Robert Irwin’s performances throughout season 34 have solidified his position as a frontrunner for the mirrorball trophy. His athleticism and dedication to dance have been consistently praised by judges, and his charismatic presence has garnered him a significant new fanbase.
His impressive physique has also captured attention, particularly after a shirtless performance to Tommy Richman’s “Million Dollar Baby” during “TikTok Night,” which he lightheartedly mentioned led to his DMs “popping.” Robert’s blend of genuine emotion, talent, and approachable charm continues to make him a standout on the show, carrying forward the beloved legacy of his family in a new and captivating way.
In his powerful closing message after the performance, Robert urged viewers to appreciate their loved ones. “This is for all the moms who don’t get the recognition they deserve. Go call your mom and tell her that you love her,” he said, encapsulating the universal message of gratitude and love that resonated so deeply with audiences.
