Robert Irwin Said He Would ‘Love to’ Join Dancing with the Stars 10 Years Ago in Resurfaced Video
Robert Irwin’s Early Desire to Join Dancing with the Stars
A recently resurfaced video from 2015 reveals a young Robert Irwin, then just 11 years old, enthusiastically expressing his wish to join the popular dance competition show, Dancing with the Stars. In the clip, Robert is asked by New Zealand TV host Dominic Bowden if he would consider participating in the show as a celebrity. Without hesitation, Robert replies, “Definitely. I would love to! That would be so much fun!” This early declaration of interest highlights how long Robert has admired the show and dreamed of being part of it.
At the time, Robert’s older sister, Bindi Irwin, was competing on Dancing with the Stars alongside professional dancer Derek Hough. The duo went on to win the 21st season of the show, further inspiring Robert’s ambition. His admiration for Bindi’s success planted the seed for his own future participation.
How Bindi Irwin Inspired Robert’s Dancing Ambitions
Bindi Irwin’s victory on Dancing with the Stars in 2015 left a lasting impression on her younger brother. Robert has openly shared that watching Bindi compete and ultimately win the mirrorball trophy was a major source of inspiration for him. Before his own season began, Robert told PEOPLE magazine, “I wanted to do this because I was inspired by my sister Bindi, who won Dancing with the Stars 10 years ago. I remember coming to every live taping to watch her and thinking, ‘One day I have to do this.’”
Bindi’s support has been a constant throughout Robert’s journey on the show. She has been present at nearly every live taping, cheering him on and offering encouragement. After Robert’s first performance, Bindi expressed how proud she was of her brother, a sentiment that Robert said “means everything” to him. The siblings’ close bond and shared experience on the show have made Robert’s participation even more meaningful.
Robert Irwin’s Journey on Dancing with the Stars Today
Now 21 years old, Robert Irwin is currently competing on Dancing with the Stars, partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson. Despite his initial excitement, Robert admits that the experience is both thrilling and intimidating. He shared with PEOPLE that competing on the show “scares me more than anything else I’ve ever done,” but his determination to honor his sister’s legacy and push his own limits keeps him motivated.
Robert’s family has been a pillar of support throughout his time on the show. His mother Terri Irwin, sister Bindi, Bindi’s husband Chandler Powell, and their daughter Grace have all been in attendance at the live tapings, providing encouragement and love. Robert described the process as “the most incredible whirlwind adrenaline rush” and said having his family there “is everything to me.”
One poignant aspect of Robert’s journey is the absence of his father, Steve Irwin, the legendary “Crocodile Hunter,” who passed away in 2006. Robert has dedicated his performances to making his dad proud, saying, “Dad was the person who just gave everything he did, everything he had, truly. And this experience, that’s what you’ve got to do. You’ve got to show every side to yourself. You’ve got to put every single fiber of your energy into this, and you get all of that back.”
Why Robert Irwin’s Story Resonates with Fans
Robert Irwin’s story is one of passion, family inspiration, and personal growth. His early enthusiasm for Dancing with the Stars, captured in the resurfaced video, shows a genuine love for the art of dance and performance. Fans appreciate his vulnerability in admitting the challenges he faces on the show and admire his dedication to honoring his family’s legacy.
Moreover, Robert’s journey highlights the power of following one’s dreams despite fear and uncertainty. His willingness to step outside his comfort zone and embrace a new challenge resonates with viewers who see him as a relatable and inspiring figure.
What’s Next for Robert Irwin on Dancing with the Stars?
As the season progresses, Robert Irwin continues to impress judges and audiences alike with his growth and determination. His partnership with Witney Carson has blossomed into a dynamic duo, showcasing both technical skill and heartfelt performances. Fans eagerly await each new episode to see how far Robert will go in the competition.
Beyond the show, Robert’s participation in Dancing with the Stars is helping him reach new audiences and expand his platform as a wildlife conservationist and public figure. The experience is not only a personal milestone but also an opportunity to inspire others through his story.
Conclusion
Robert Irwin’s decade-long dream of joining Dancing with the Stars has come full circle, from an excited 11-year-old declaring his love for the show to a confident young man competing on the ballroom floor today. Inspired by his sister Bindi’s success and supported by his family, Robert’s journey is a testament to courage, passion, and perseverance. If you want to follow Robert’s inspiring story and see his latest performances, be sure to tune in to Dancing with the Stars every Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+. Don’t miss out on witnessing this heartfelt journey unfold—join the conversation and cheer on Robert as he dances his way into the hearts of millions!
