Robert Irwin to Dedicate Emotional Dancing With the Stars Performance to His Mother Terri — and His Whole Family Flew In to Watch
It’s shaping up to be one of the most emotional performances of the season.
Wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin, son of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, has revealed that his Week 5 Dancing With the Stars performance will be a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Terri Irwin — the woman he calls his “biggest inspiration.”
The 20-year-old Australian, who has quickly become a fan favorite this season, will dance a Contemporary routine to Phil Collins’ iconic song “You’ll Be In My Heart,” with professional partner Witney Carson.
And in a touching show of support, Robert’s entire family — including Terri and his sister Bindi Irwin — have temporarily relocated from Australia to the United States to cheer him on from the audience.
“This One’s for My Mum”
In an interview with Extra after Week 4’s Disney Night, Robert opened up about what the next performance means to him.
“I’m so grateful for my family,” he said with a smile. “Next week’s dance will be really special — it’s a dedication to my mum and everything she’s done for me and Bindi. I can’t wait to share it.”
Since joining DWTS, Robert has impressed judges and fans alike with his charm, humor, and genuine humility — qualities that seem to run deep in the Irwin family. His performances have been consistently praised for their heart and storytelling, a reflection of the values instilled by his mother.
A Mother’s Strength, A Family’s Legacy
Terri Irwin, now 60, has long been admired for her grace and resilience. After Steve Irwin’s tragic death in 2006, she raised Robert and Bindi as a single mother, continuing their family’s mission of wildlife conservation through Australia Zoo and countless global projects.
Professional dancer Witney Carson, who has developed a sibling-like bond with Robert, spoke candidly about Terri during a post-show interview.
“The whole Irwin family just radiates kindness,” she said. “They make everyone feel better just by being around them. I don’t know how Terri did it, but she’s incredible — the way she raised two amazing, grounded people after such a huge loss.”
Carson described the upcoming dance as a deeply emotional one — not just for Robert, but for everyone involved.
“You can feel how much he loves his mom,” she said. “Every rehearsal, every movement — it’s like he’s telling her thank you.”
A Family That Dances Together
In true Irwin fashion, Robert’s family has rallied around him during his DWTS journey. His sister Bindi, who previously competed and won Season 21 of the show with Derek Hough, has been offering advice and encouragement behind the scenes.
“She told me, ‘Just be yourself and have fun,’” Robert shared. “She said that’s what the audience connects with most — authenticity.”
Bindi and her husband Chandler Powell, along with Terri, have been spotted in Los Angeles attending rehearsals and spending time with Robert between shoots. On September 29, Robert posted a sweet photo of his family on Instagram with the caption: “Loving every second.”
Their presence, he said, has been his greatest source of comfort.
“It’s pretty special to have them all here,” Robert admitted. “We’ve spent so much of our lives surrounded by wildlife, and now they’re here in a whole new jungle — the dance floor.”
“You’ll Be In My Heart” — A Song Full of Meaning
Choosing Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be In My Heart” was no coincidence. The song, famously written for Disney’s Tarzan, is about unbreakable family bonds and the love between a parent and child — a theme that mirrors Robert’s own life story.
Fans online have already expressed excitement and anticipation for what’s expected to be one of the season’s most emotional moments. Many have commented that the performance will likely move the judges — and the audience — to tears.
The song choice, combined with Robert’s sincerity and Carson’s elegant choreography, promises a tribute that transcends entertainment.
Carrying the Irwin Legacy Forward
Robert’s journey on Dancing With the Stars is about much more than competition. It’s a continuation of his family’s legacy of warmth, positivity, and resilience — values that his late father, Steve Irwin, became world-famous for.
Through his dance, Robert hopes to remind people that love, family, and gratitude remain the true foundations of life — even in the most dazzling spotlight.
“My dad taught us to live passionately,” Robert reflected in an earlier interview. “My mum taught us to keep going, no matter what. Everything I do — from working with animals to dancing on stage — is for them.”
From the Wildlife Park to the Ballroom
Robert’s transformation from a young zookeeper in khaki to a polished performer in sequins has captured global attention. Yet, despite the glitter and glamour of DWTS, he remains unmistakably grounded.
Fans have affectionately dubbed him “the sunshine of the season,” praising his humility, kindness, and good humor.
Carson agrees.
“Robert’s energy is infectious,” she said. “He’s got this pure joy about him — and that comes straight from his family.”
A Dance Filled With Heart
As Week 5 approaches, anticipation continues to build. Sources close to the production say the Contemporary routine will include personal touches inspired by Robert’s family — symbolic movements, emotional imagery, and even nods to his late father.
The performance will be more than just a dance; it will be a story — a love letter from a son to his mother, and from a family to the world.
“No matter what happens in this competition,” Robert said, “the fact that I get to dance this one for Mum makes me feel like I’ve already won.”
When the lights dim and the first notes of You’ll Be In My Heart play, one thing is certain: it won’t just be a performance — it will be a moment.
And if history is anything to go by, the Irwins don’t just dance to impress — they dance to inspire.
