Get ready for an emotional moment on the dance floor — Robert Irwin is dedicating his next performance to his biggest hero: his mom, Terri Irwin. And if that doesn’t already make you reach for the tissues, just wait until you hear what else he’s up to.
Robert Irwin, the beloved wildlife conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin, is teaming up with pro dancer Witney Carson for Dedication Week on Dancing with the Stars season 34. But this time, it’s personal. Robert revealed to reporter Courtney Tezeno that he has something “really special and cool planned” as a heartfelt tribute to his mother.
“It’ll be dedicated to my mum,” Robert explained backstage during Disney Night. “She’s been my rock through everything. The person I look up to the most, and the one who’s shaped who I am today. I’m so grateful for her—and for the legacy she continues to build every day.”
That touching tribute wasn’t the only thing Robert hinted at earlier in the season. In an exclusive chat last week, he teased that fans might even see him “give Mum her flowers” right there on the ballroom floor. Viewers immediately started suggesting songs that would reflect not only Terri’s strength but also honor his late father, Steve Irwin — the legendary “Crocodile Hunter,” who passed away in 2006.
Robert opened up further to Tezeno in week three, saying, “My mum has been my biggest inspiration. She’s carried so much grace, passion, and determination while keeping Dad’s legacy alive. But beyond that, she’s just an incredible person — a loving mother, a brilliant businesswoman, and honestly everything I strive to be.” He added sincerely, “Everything I do here is about continuing the legacy she and my dad started together.”
But here’s where it gets even more exciting — and a little unexpected. During Disney Night, Robert channeled his wild side with a Zootopia-inspired Cha-cha, complete with nods to the beloved animated film. Then came the big reveal: he’s officially joining the Disney family as Robert Furwin, a koala character in the upcoming Zootopia 2!
“I can’t believe I’m actually in a Disney movie,” he said, still visibly thrilled. “It’s insane! Little Robert would’ve never believed this could happen. And I loved that we got to bring a bit of that Zootopia energy into our dance routine. It just felt right.”
So between honoring his mother and making his debut as an animated Disney koala, Robert Irwin is clearly living out two dreams at once — family legacy and childhood fantasy coming together on one dazzling stage.
Watch new episodes of Dancing with the Stars every Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu.
But here’s the real question: Do you think dedicating this dance to Terri was the right move — or should he have paid tribute to his father first? Share your thoughts below — this one’s bound to stir debate among fans of the Irwin family.
