The next season of “Dancing with the Stars” may still be months away, but early predictions are already starting to surface. Former champion Robert Irwin recently suggested that Maura Higgins could have a real shot at winning the competition. The reality TV star was among the first contestants announced for season 35, and Irwin believes that detail may actually matter more than fans think.
Robert Irwin shares why he thinks Maura Higgins is in with a chance to win new season of DWTS
Robert Irwin recently revealed that Maura Higgins herself noticed an interesting similarity between their DWTS experiences. According to him, she mentioned that being one of the first contestants announced for the season felt like “a good omen.” She pointed out that the same thing had happened to him before he went on to win last year.
“I think the luck is on your side,” Irwin told her at the time, per PEOPLE. Further, the wildlife conservationist suggested Higgins may already have the right energy heading into the competition.
Higgins, known for “Love Island” and “The Traitors,” was confirmed as one of the first celebrity contestants joining season 35. Ciara Miller was also announced alongside her, though the full celebrity and professional dancer lineup has yet to be revealed.
Irwin also jokingly hinted that another “tradition” may need to continue if Higgins wants to win. Referring to his own magazine feature before his season aired, he laughed that appearing in PEOPLE could be part of the formula for success.
After his victory, Irwin has stayed deeply connected to the DWTS family. He recently reunited with several former cast members at the Steve Irwin Gala on May 2. There, he and former partner Witney Carson reportedly performed their jive routine again. The television personality admitted the moment felt “surreal,” especially because it could have been their “last time dancing together.”
Now preparing to host “Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro,” Irwin says he still misses his former castmates. “I definitely crave any opportunity I get to spend with them,” the 22-year-old shared. Although season 35 will premiere in the fall, his comments have fueled buzz around Higgins’ chances of taking home the next Mirrorball Trophy.
