Prince William delighted audiences with an unexpected virtual cameo on the 20th anniversary episode of “Dancing With the Stars,” offering words of encouragement to contestant Robert Irwin and highlighting their shared dedication to environmental conservation through the Earthshot Prize.
During the November 11 broadcast, the Prince of Wales appeared via video message, surprising Irwin and his professional partner Witney Carson. William referred to Irwin as “twinkle toes” and joked, “Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here,” alluding to Irwin’s absence from the Earthshot Prize Awards in Brazil. He also told Carson to “get him in as much glitter as you can,” adding a lighthearted touch to the moment that left Carson exclaiming she couldn’t believe he said her name.
Irwin, visibly shocked and grateful, explained that he was dedicating his foxtrot performance to his sister Bindi Irwin, who won the competition in 2015. The dance was set to Leona Lewis’s “Footprints in the Sand,” the same song Bindi had performed to during her victorious season, creating a poignant family connection. Robert emphasized that he didn’t want to “mess this up” because of the emotional weight behind the routine.
The choice of song held deeper significance, as Bindi had originally dedicated it to their late father, Steve Irwin, the beloved “Crocodile Hunter.” Robert expressed the pressure of the moment, stating, “There’s a lot of weight because I really want it to be our best dance yet,” underscoring his desire to honor his family’s legacy while navigating the competition. This layers of meaning added depth to an already high-stakes performance.
William’s appearance underscored their professional relationship; Irwin serves as a global ambassador for the Earthshot Prize, an environmental initiative founded by William. The prince noted that Irwin was supposed to be in Brazil for the awards ceremony but remained in the competition, showcasing the balance between his conservation work and entertainment pursuits. William’s message reinforced the importance of their collaboration in tackling global environmental challenges.
The emotional climax came when a video of Steve Irwin appeared on the ballroom floor after the performance, reducing Robert to tears as Bindi and Carson comforted him. Judges praised the routine, awarding it a perfect score of 40 points, the first of the season, with Derek Hough commending Robert for carrying on his father’s enthusiasm and being “this generation’s beacon of joy.” Bindi also made a physical appearance, joining her brother on the dance floor in a surprise moment.
This crossover event highlights how celebrities and royals are using platforms like “Dancing With the Stars” to promote causes, with William’s support boosting visibility for environmental issues. As Irwin advances in the competition, his journey continues to blend entertainment with advocacy, potentially inspiring viewers to engage with conservation efforts and demonstrating the evolving role of public figures in driving social change.
