Robert Irwin, 20-year-old wildlife conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin, moved audiences and judges alike during Week 5 of Dancing With the Stars with a performance that was as heartfelt as it was powerful. The evening’s theme, “Dedication,” saw Robert take to the stage with partner Witney Carson for a Contemporary dance dedicated to his mother, Terri Irwin, and a tribute to his late father. Set to Phil Collins’ iconic ballad “You’ll Be in My Heart,” the performance transcended the usual ballroom spectacle, becoming a moving testament to love, loss, and family bonds.
Before stepping onto the floor, Robert opened up about the profound impact of growing up without his father, who tragically died when Robert was just two years old. “At every big moment in my life when I just wished my dad was there,” he shared, “my mum was there — and that was enough.” He spoke with unflinching emotion about the sacrifices Terri made to raise him and his sister, Bindi, while keeping Steve’s legacy alive. “She always made sure Dad was still part of our lives,” he said. “I just want to show her how much that means to me — and how proud Dad would be of her.”
Terri herself was present during the rehearsal process, reflecting on the challenges she faced after losing Steve. With tears glistening, she remarked, “After we lost Steve, it was difficult to smile again. But because of Robert and Bindi, I found the strength to wake up every day. So for Robert to say I lifted him up — truly, it was the other way around. I’m just so proud of him.” Her words underscored the profound reciprocity of love and resilience that Robert sought to convey on the dance floor.
When Robert and Witney began their performance, the ballroom was silent, captivated by the combination of technical precision and raw emotion. The judges praised his vulnerability and sincerity, noting that each movement reflected deep personal meaning. The official Dancing With the Stars Instagram account captured the moment, sharing a clip with the caption: “In our hearts forever and always ❤️ Robert and Witney delivered a beautiful Contemporary dedicated to his mom Terri ✨.”
Yet, the score sparked controversy. Judge Carrie Ann Inaba awarded Robert an 8, while the other judges gave higher marks, bringing his total to 35 out of 40. Social media erupted in defense of the young performer, with fans flooding platforms like X (formerly Twitter) with comments such as, “This was the most moving dance I’ve ever seen,” and, “Justice for Robert! That was not an 8!” Entertainment outlets also weighed in, praising Robert’s evolution from a wildlife conservationist into a performer capable of touching hearts worldwide. Entertainment Tonight noted, “From catching crocodiles to rocking rhinestones, Robert Irwin can do it all.”
For Robert, the performance was never about scores or competition. It was a deeply personal tribute — a message of gratitude to the two people who shaped his life. Through movement and music, he honored a mother who instilled resilience and a father whose legacy continues to guide him. The dance was a memory in motion, a reminder that love endures, even in the face of loss, and that sometimes, the most meaningful performances transcend the ballroom entirely.
The story originally appeared on [Link].