Robert Irwin’s Heartfelt Confession: The Wildlife Warrior Opens Up About Missing His “Animal Family” While Competing on Dancing With the Stars

It’s been over a month since wildlife conservationist and television personality Robert Irwin first stepped onto the Dancing With the Stars stage — and while the 21-year-old has been dazzling audiences with his natural charisma and surprising dance talent, his latest Instagram post reveals a softer, more emotional side of the young star.

On Wednesday, Irwin took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message that immediately tugged at fans’ hearts. Posting a candid backstage photo from the DWTS studio, he wrote:

“Missing my animal fam back at home  @australiazoo.”

Accompanied by a simple red heart emoji and a tag to Australia Zoo, the post quickly racked up hundreds of thousands of likes and thousands of supportive comments. Fans were quick to remind the young conservationist — the son of the late Steve Irwin, the legendary “Crocodile Hunter” — that his family of animals was in good hands back home, and that his journey on Dancing With the Stars was inspiring millions.

A Month Away From Home

Irwin, who joined the hit reality dance competition in September 2025, has spent the last several weeks rehearsing, performing, and adjusting to life under the blinding lights of Hollywood. Known for his easy smile and fearless energy when working with crocodiles and kangaroos at his family’s Queensland zoo, Robert has been trading khakis for sequins and snakes for samba — and fans can’t get enough.

However, his latest post reminds the world that even a global TV opportunity can’t replace the bond he shares with the creatures he grew up with.

“Robert’s been surrounded by animals since the day he was born,” a family friend told Daily Mail Australia. “He’s happiest when he’s in the bush, camera in hand, or feeding a croc. Being in Los Angeles is exciting for him, but it’s a completely different world.”

The distance, sources say, has been particularly challenging because Irwin still plays an active role in managing Australia Zoo alongside his mother Terri Irwin and sister Bindi Irwin. The trio has carried on Steve Irwin’s conservation legacy since his passing in 2006, with Robert often serving as the zoo’s public face in documentaries, talk shows, and wildlife rescues.

From the Jungle to the Ballroom

Irwin’s decision to join Dancing With the Stars was met with excitement — and some surprise — among fans. Known for his adventurous spirit and natural athleticism, Robert has proven that his agility extends far beyond the outback.

Since his debut performance, Irwin has become one of the breakout stars of the season, impressing both the judges and audiences with his commitment and charm. His partnership with professional dancer Sharna Burgess has been described as “electric,” blending his youthful enthusiasm with her seasoned expertise.

Judge Bruno Tonioli even called him “the most unexpectedly graceful croc handler I’ve ever seen,” while Carrie Ann Inaba praised his “genuine joy and emotional connection.”

Still, despite the glitz and glamour, Robert’s Instagram confession proves that his heart remains firmly rooted back home — with his family, the zoo, and the animals that have shaped his life.

The Irwin Legacy Lives On

At just 21, Robert Irwin has already built an impressive résumé. In addition to co-hosting Crikey! It’s the Irwins and appearing on international wildlife programs, he’s also an award-winning photographer, environmental advocate, and global ambassador for wildlife conservation.

“Every photo, every moment in the wild — it’s about showing people why these animals matter,” he told People magazine earlier this year. “If people fall in love with them, they’ll want to protect them.”

His latest Instagram post, though simple, highlights that even while conquering new challenges, Robert’s heart still beats for conservation. Many fans took to the comments to express admiration for his humility.

“You’re making your dad proud every day,” one user wrote. Another commented, “You’re showing the world that kindness and passion never go out of style.”

Even sister Bindi Irwin chimed in, commenting with a heart emoji and a message: “They all miss you too, Robbie  The crocs are behaving (mostly)!”

Balancing Stardom and Home

Friends close to the family say that Terri Irwin has been Robert’s biggest cheerleader, frequently watching DWTS episodes from home in Queensland and posting supportive messages online.

“Terri’s incredibly proud,” said the family insider. “She knows how much Steve would’ve loved seeing Robert dance — not because of the fame, but because he’s out there spreading joy and positivity, just like his dad did.”

And though the DWTS schedule keeps Robert busy — with daily rehearsals, costume fittings, and live tapings — sources confirm that he’s been calling home regularly, keeping up with zoo updates and even checking in on his favorite animals via video.

Fans Rally Behind the Wildlife Star

Within hours of posting, Robert’s heartfelt message had become one of his most-liked updates of the season. Fans flooded the comments section with love and encouragement:

• “You’re doing amazing, Robert! The animals will be waiting when you get home ”

• “Even when you’re away, your heart’s still at the zoo — and that’s what makes you special.”

• “Steve is smiling down on you, mate. Keep dancing, keep shining.”

Entertainment outlets quickly picked up the story, framing it as a touching reminder that fame hasn’t changed the young Irwin’s grounded nature. E! News called his post “the most authentic moment of the DWTS season so far,” while People praised him as “a celebrity who still leads with heart.”

What’s Next for Robert

As Dancing With the Stars heads into its midseason stretch, Irwin remains one of the fan favorites, with bookmakers ranking him among the top contenders for the Mirrorball Trophy. Yet, whether he wins or not, it’s clear that the young conservationist’s biggest victory lies in staying true to who he is.

In a world of fleeting fame and flashy moments, Robert Irwin’s quiet message of homesickness has reminded audiences that compassion and connection are timeless.

He may be far from the outback for now, but as one fan perfectly put it:

“Robert doesn’t just dance on stage — he carries the wild with him wherever he goes.”