In a heartwarming full-circle moment, Robert Irwin, the son of the beloved late "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin, was crowned the champion of "Dancing With The Stars" on Tuesday night. This victory comes exactly ten years after his older sister, Bindi Irwin, claimed the same trophy.
A Legacy Continues on the Dance Floor
Expressing the profound significance of his win, Robert Irwin told People magazine, "To follow in those footsteps and to do the same has meant everything to me." He added, "This has absolutely changed my life." Throughout the season, Irwin and his professional partner, Witney Carson, were a dominant force, consistently impressing the judges and earning perfect scores for their performances, which included an Argentine tango, a Paso doble, and a freestyle routine.
Emotional Tributes to Family
The competition featured an emotionally charged week where celebrities dedicated a dance to someone important in their lives. Robert Irwin chose to honor his mother, Terri Irwin, calling her an "absolute hero." He shared a poignant reflection on the show, stating, "I was 2 when I lost Dad. And as I got older, I've just realized how hard it would have been for her."
The Irwin family was tragically thrust into the global spotlight in 2006 when Steve Irwin died after a stingray attack while filming a documentary. The loss shocked the world. During his father's memorial service, a young Bindi Irwin, then just 8 years old, delivered a moving speech that touched millions, calling her dad her hero.
Following in His Sister's Footsteps
The family connection to the show runs deep. On her own winning season in 2015, Bindi Irwin dedicated a dance to her late father, expressing that she sometimes felt he would still walk through the door. Throughout Robert's journey on the show, both Bindi and Terri were a constant source of support, cheering him on from the audience during the finale.
After his triumph, Robert Irwin revealed to reporters that he had long dreamed of following his sister's path. Appearing on "Good Morning America" on Wednesday, he recalled watching Bindi win a decade ago, calling it a "privilege" to now share that achievement. "That pressure was there, but it was just the pressure to be the best version of ourselves," he said, acknowledging the warm reception from the American public.
In the finale, Robert Irwin beat out a field of formidable competitors, including social media star Alix Earle, reality TV personality Dylan Efron, and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles.
