Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez have intensified dating speculation after being photographed in a private meetup ahead of the ‘Dancing With the Stars’ season finale. The encounter, captured by TMZ, showed the pair sharing affectionate gestures and laughter, fueling rumors that began with their recent dance performance on the show.
On the eve of the highly anticipated ‘Dancing With the Stars’ season finale, Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez were spotted in a private backstage meetup that has set social media abuzz. Photos obtained by TMZ and published on November 25, 2025, depict the duo engaging in warm interactions, with Gomez presenting Irwin a large bouquet and exchanging a side hug. The images quickly circulated online, adding fuel to existing dating rumors between the two celebrities.
The meetup occurred just hours before Irwin was set to compete in the finale with his professional partner, Witney Carson. Gomez, who won Season 32 of ‘DWTS’, visited Irwin backstage, where she also spent time with members of his family, according to sources close to the situation. Her presence and the intimate nature of their interaction suggested a close relationship beyond their professional collaboration.
This incident follows earlier speculation that emerged after Irwin and Gomez performed a lively jive together during the show’s 20th anniversary celebration earlier in November. Their high-energy routine to “Dance with Me Tonight” by Olly Murs captivated audiences and led to widespread questions about a potential romance. At the time, Irwin played coy when asked by TMZ if they were “an item,” instead emphasizing how much fun they had during the dance.
In comments to TMZ on November 14, Irwin gushed about Gomez, calling her “the best” and noting that their dance was “so much fun.” He contrasted it with his foxtrot tribute to his late father, Steve Irwin, which he performed with his sister Bindi Irwin and Carson, describing one as “slow and heartfelt” and the other as full of “energy and fun.” His avoidance of directly addressing the dating rumors only heightened public curiosity.
The timing of the meetup is notable, as Irwin faced a rib injury in the days leading up to the finale. Carson revealed via TikTok on Monday that Irwin’s ribs had been “killing him,” forcing changes to their routines and adding stress to their preparations. Despite this, the duo aimed to deliver a memorable performance in the finale.
The ongoing rumors have drawn significant attention from fans and media outlets, with many speculating about the nature of Irwin and Gomez’s relationship. Both individuals have sizable followings—Irwin as a wildlife conservationist and TV personality, and Gomez as an actress known for her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe—amplifying the interest in their personal lives.
As the ‘DWTS’ finale unfolds, all eyes will be on Irwin’s performance and any further interactions with Gomez. Whether the rumors will be confirmed or denied remains to be seen, but the private meetup has undoubtedly cemented their connection in the public eye, making it a trending topic in entertainment news.
