Season 34 of Dancing with the Stars just gave viewers a first for the series. For Dedication Night, the people being honored took part in the performance. Conservationist Robert Irwin’s breathtaking contemporary routine with Witney Carson honored his mom, Terri Irwin. And there wasn’t a dry eye in the ballroom.
Robert came into DWTS with no dance experience. However, his charisma, charm, and ability to learn the flavor of each dance have made him a frontrunner. There is a good chance that Robert will follow in the footsteps of his sister, Bindi Irwin, and snag the Mirrorball.
Robert Irwin’s latest DWTS routine was dedicated to his parents
Robert’s dance, set to You’ll Be In My Heart by Phil Collins, landed him in a tie for second place on the leaderboard. What a beautiful and heartfelt tribute from a son to his mother. In his rehearsal package, Robert explained why he dedicated the performance to his mom. He noted how strong she has been since the shocking death of her husband, Steve Irwin. He was killed by a stingray barb in a tragic accident. At the time, Robert was just two years old.
“This is a moment with my mother that I will cherish forever. And I know my dad would be so proud,” Robert said in the pre-taped video. At the end of the routine, Terri joined Robert on the floor. He twirled her before they embraced, and Robert dissolved into tears. However, he wasn’t the only one.
Judge Derek Hough, who was so emotional that he could barely speak, said, “Man, I’m so proud of you. I really am.” He added, “You’ve become such an amazing man, and the world needs the Irwin family.” During Season 21 of DWTS, Derek danced with Bindi, and they won the Mirrorball. Of course, Bindi was in the audience to support Robert and her mother.
Dancing with the Stars airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on ABC and Disney+. It will stream on Hulu the next day.
TELL US – WHAT DID YOU THINK OF ROBERT’S DWTS PERFORMANCE? WAS IT THE MOST EMOTIONAL ROUTINE OF DEDICATION NIGHT?
