Robert Irwin made a heartfelt debut on Dancing with the Stars season 34 on September 16. The wildlife conservationist, paired with professional dancer Witney Carson, closed Tuesday night’s episode with a performance to Steppenwolf’s Born to Be Wild.
Before the show, Robert reportedly spent the day wearing one of his late father Steve Irwin’s shirts. When it came time to perform, he honoured his dad by raising both fists – one of Steve’s signature stances.
The routine was a hit, with Robert and Witney topping the scoreboard at 15/20, tying with Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas. Robert expressed that while dancing was never something he imagined doing, he wants to use this platform to carry forward his family’s spirit and tradition.
Watch a clip of
his performance here:
Robert Irwin On His Late Father’s Reaction
In an interview with Access Hollywood, Robert shared what his dad would have thought about his journey. He said, “He was the sort of person where he just never held back. He was passionate, enthusiastic about every single thing he did. And he loved life when he was just living on the edge and giving it 100. And that is what this experience is.”
Robert added that his father would have been “stoked” to see him on the show. Full story here.
Following In His Sister’s Footsteps
Robert’s sister, Bindi Irwin, lifted the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy in 2015 during season 21. Speaking to PEOPLE, Robert revealed that she was a major influence on his decision to join the show.
“I wanted to do this because I was inspired by my sister Bindi, who won Dancing with the Stars 10 years ago. I remember coming to every live taping to watch her and thinking, ‘One day I have to do this,’” he said.
Now, like Bindi, Robert hopes to carry forward their father’s zest for life through his performances.
What’s Next
Currently, Robert is leading on the scoreboard. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more heartfelt performances inspired by his family’s legacy.
Dancing with the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.
