Summary
Robert Irwin made a dazzling debut on Dancing With the Stars Season 34, performing a high-energy jive with pro partner Witney Carson. Paying tribute to his late father Steve Irwin with khakis and adventurous stunts, Robert left the judges and audience amazed. Derek Hough even called it “the best first dance ever.” Here’s a full breakdown of the performance, reactions, and what this means for his DWTS journey.
The Dancing With the Stars Season 34 premiere was filled with star power, but one celebrity stood out above the rest: Robert Irwin. The 20-year-old conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin delivered a jaw-dropping debut that quickly became the highlight of the night.
Performing a lively jive to Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild”, Robert embraced his adventurous spirit and electrified the ballroom. From leaping off a jeep to pulling off daring stunts, his performance earned thunderous applause and glowing reviews from the judges.
A Tribute to the Irwin Family Legacy
Robert’s dance was more than just entertainment—it was a heartfelt tribute to the Irwin legacy.
- Iconic Khakis: He wore the family’s signature khaki outfit, a nod to his father Steve Irwin, the beloved “Crocodile Hunter.”
- The Jeep Entrance: The routine began with Robert jumping off a safari-styled Jeep, symbolizing his connection to wildlife adventures.
- Family Support: His sister Bindi Irwin, who previously won DWTS Season 21, was in the audience cheering him on, making the moment even more emotional.
For fans, this wasn’t just a dance—it was a celebration of courage, legacy, and family pride.
Judge Reactions: “The Best First Dance Ever”
Robert’s energetic routine didn’t just impress fans—it floored the judges.
- Derek Hough declared it “probably the best first dance I’ve ever seen on this show.”
- Bruno Tonioli praised his charisma and stage presence, highlighting the blend of storytelling and technique.
- Even with only two judges scoring (due to Carrie Ann Inaba’s illness), Robert managed to grab 15 out of 20 points, one of the highest scores of the night.
This glowing feedback immediately positioned him as a frontrunner for the season.
The Missing Judge: Carrie Ann Inaba
One unusual twist of the night was that Carrie Ann Inaba was absent due to illness. This meant the scoring system shifted from the usual 30 points to 20 points.
Even with just two judges, Robert’s performance managed to dominate the leaderboard, proving that his impact extended beyond numbers. The roaring crowd and social media buzz confirmed his routine as a standout moment.
Witney Carson: The Perfect Partner
A big part of Robert’s success was his partnership with professional dancer Witney Carson.
- Carson is known for her ability to choreograph routines that highlight her partner’s strengths.
- She leaned into Robert’s adventurous persona, blending bold stunts with classic jive footwork.
- Their chemistry on stage suggested they could become one of the most exciting duos of Season 34.
Carson’s experience as a DWTS champion also gives Robert an edge in navigating the competition.
Audience and Social Media Buzz
Robert’s dance immediately went viral online. Fans praised not only his dancing skills but also the emotional depth behind the performance. Comments poured in on social platforms:
- “Robert Irwin just owned the night. His dad would be so proud.”
- “Best first dance in DWTS history. Period.”
- “From Bindi’s win to Robert’s debut, the Irwins are DWTS royalty.”
The blend of nostalgia, family pride, and undeniable talent created a perfect storm for online buzz.
Comparisons to Bindi Irwin’s Journey
It’s impossible not to compare Robert’s debut with that of his sister Bindi Irwin, who won Season 21 of DWTS.
- Both siblings danced with sincerity and authenticity, connecting emotionally with audiences.
- Bindi’s performances often included heartfelt tributes to her father, while Robert’s debut directly honored his legacy.
- The Irwin family’s story adds depth to their routines, making them more than just dances—they’re cultural moments.
Fans are already speculating whether Robert could follow in his sister’s footsteps and claim the Mirrorball Trophy.
The Competition: Who Else Impressed in Week 1?
While Robert stole headlines, several other contestants made strong impressions:
- Jordan Chiles & Ezra Sosa wowed with a powerful routine to Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul.”
- Hilaria Baldwin & Gleb Savchenko charmed with a spirited cha-cha.
- Whitney Leavitt & Mark Ballas delivered a polished tango.
Still, few performances matched Robert’s combination of technical flair, showmanship, and emotional resonance.
Why Robert’s Performance Resonated
Robert’s dance worked on multiple levels, making it a standout moment in DWTS history:
- Authenticity: He didn’t shy away from being himself—embracing his wildlife roots.
- Spectacle: From the jeep to the jumps, the routine had unforgettable visuals.
- Emotion: Honoring his father gave the performance heart and meaning.
- Surprise Factor: Few expected a conservationist to deliver such a polished debut.
These elements combined to create what many are calling one of the most iconic DWTS premieres ever.
Challenges Ahead
While Robert’s first dance was a triumph, the road ahead won’t be easy.
- Rising Expectations: After such a strong debut, the pressure is on to maintain momentum.
- Technical Growth: Jive suited his energy, but ballroom dances like the waltz or foxtrot will test his precision.
- Fan Votes: Judges’ scores are important, but viewer votes ultimately decide who stays.
Robert will need to balance showmanship with technique to secure his spot week after week.
What This Means for His DWTS Journey
If Robert continues on this trajectory, he could easily become a finalist—or even a champion. His combination of talent, legacy, and charisma gives him all the ingredients for a winning season.
Much like Bindi before him, Robert has shown that DWTS isn’t just about dancing—it’s about telling a story that resonates with millions.
Final Thoughts
Robert Irwin’s Dancing With the Stars debut was nothing short of spectacular. By blending his family legacy with fearless energy, he delivered a performance that will be remembered for years.
Whether or not he takes home the Mirrorball Trophy, Robert has already proven himself a star on the dance floor. His journey promises to be one of the most exciting arcs of Season 34.
Also Read : The Traitors Season 4 Cast Revealed: Meet the Stars of the Hit Reality Series
FAQs
What song did Robert Irwin dance to on DWTS?
Robert and Witney Carson performed a jive to “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf.
Who is Robert Irwin’s partner on Dancing With the Stars?
Robert is partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson, a former DWTS champion.
How did the judges react to his performance?
Judge Derek Hough called it “probably the best first dance ever,” while Bruno Tonioli praised his charisma.
What score did Robert receive?
He scored 15 out of 20, one of the night’s highest scores, despite only two judges being present.
Has an Irwin won DWTS before?
Yes, Robert’s sister Bindi Irwin won Season 21 of Dancing With the Stars in 2015.
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