Robert Irwin, a 21-year-old wildlife conservationist, photographer, and zookeeper, showcased his talent and deep family ties during a recent episode of “Dancing With the Stars.” Partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson, Irwin delivered a heartfelt contemporary routine that earned him his best score of the season.
For Tuesday night’s “redemption” performance, Irwin and Carson took to the floor for Phil Collins’ 2002 Disney classic “You’ll Be in My Heart.” The emotional choreography served as a tribute to Irwin’s mother, Terri Irwin, who watched from the audience with pride. This emotional tribute carried a sweet surprise moment. He called Terri onto the stage at the conclusion of the dance, and the two shared an emotional embrace that tugged at the heart strings of fans everywhere.
Irwin certainly understood the emotional impact of the entire week leading up to that performance. He shared those thoughts in an emotional Instagram post. He emphasized how crucial it was to him to dedicate the dance to his mom. He explained, “It’s a dance for my mother. It’s a dance for all of the mothers. And it’s made by a mother.”
Irwin traces his deep commitment to family and legacy back to both of his parents. The late Steve Irwin and his wife Terri had enormous influence in cultivating those values in him. And he’s just as keen to do right by that legacy with his performance. As he put it, “My mam and dad built a legacy I’m proud to carry on. So I wanted to use this dance to communicate what she means to me and our family. I will always appreciate her constant encouragement amidst all the twists and turns that life has to offer.
Steve Irwin’s widow, Terri Irwin, raised Robert and his older sister Bindi after her husband’s tragic death in 2006. In a statement, she added her thanks for what she called a “lovely tribute.” She added, “I’m just so very privileged that Robert even thought of me,” an indication of the deep connection they have.
Robert Irwin’s commitment didn’t stop at the dance floor. As he put it on Instagram, he’ll “never forget this night,” emphasizing how life-changing this night was for him.
