Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old son of wildlife legend Steve Irwin, has been crowned the winner of Dancing with the Stars US, marking a poignant family milestone a decade after his sister Bindi’s victory. He and professional partner Witney Carson claimed the Mirrorball Trophy in a record-breaking season finale that saw him overcome a rib injury to deliver emotional performances.
The three-hour finale, which aired on Tuesday evening, featured Irwin competing against four other celebrities: influencer Alix Earle, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, actor Elaine Hendrix, and Dylan Efron, brother of Zac Efron. Irwin and Carson’s journey included a series of dances that paid homage to his Australian heritage, with one routine choreographed to a song by the band Jet, and others to tracks by Avicii and Sam Sparro. Their performance in the “instant dance challenge,” where they had to adapt to a surprise style and song minutes before taking the stage, was particularly praised and contributed to their win. The intense competition saw some of the highest voting numbers in the show’s history, underscoring the audience’s engagement.
Despite entering the final with a rib injury that forced adjustments to their choreography, Irwin pushed through the pain. He expressed concern pre-performance about potentially exacerbating the injury but remained determined to complete all dances, including the quickstep and freestyle. His resilience impressed judges and audiences alike, showcasing his dedication to the competition. This adaptability was crucial in a finale where physical stamina and quick thinking were tested to the limit.
Emotional moments punctuated the night, with Irwin breaking down in tears after his final performance, stating he wished his late father, Steve Irwin, could have witnessed his achievement. Steve Irwin, famously known as the “Crocodile Hunter,” died in 2006 when Robert was just a baby, and Robert has often spoken about carrying on his father’s legacy in conservation and public life. The tribute dances, including one dedicated to his father, added a layer of depth that resonated deeply with viewers.
The victory holds special significance as it echoes his sister Bindi’s win in 2015, when she was 17 years old. Bindi made a surprise appearance during the season to support her brother, adding to the familial narrative that captivated viewers. This symmetry of wins a decade apart highlights the Irwin family’s enduring appeal and connection to the show, creating a story of legacy and continuity that transcended the dance floor.
Voting for this season reached historic highs, with co-host Julianne Hough noting it was the highest in the show’s history. Irwin narrowly beat runner-up Alix Earle, who received a perfect judges’ score of 90, while Irwin and Jordan Chiles tied at 89. However, audience votes propelled Irwin to the top, demonstrating his widespread popularity and the power of fan support in a competition that blends technical skill with public appeal.
Irwin’s win not only secures him the Mirrorball Trophy but also reinforces his status as a beloved public figure, following in his father’s footsteps while carving his own path. As an Earthshot ambassador and wildlife photographer, he continues to promote conservation efforts, and this victory may amplify his platform for environmental advocacy. The success on Dancing with the Stars could open doors to new opportunities in entertainment or bolster his influence in global conservation initiatives.
Looking ahead, Irwin’s achievement underscores the show’s ability to blend entertainment with heartfelt narratives, potentially inspiring future contestants. For Irwin, this win represents a personal triumph that bridges past and present, honoring his family’s legacy while stepping into the spotlight on his own terms. It may also signal a broader trend of celebrities using such platforms to highlight causes close to their hearts, further enriching the cultural impact of reality television.
