Robert Irwin Shines in Dancing With the Stars Debut, Judges Call It the Best First Dance

Robert Irwin has made his first foray into the reality television genre, and his debut on the U.S. edition of Dancing With the Stars has already garnered reactions from viewers. The new 20-year-old wildlife presenter, son of late conservationist Steve Irwin, wowed both the judges and the crowd with his first dance routine, making the start of the competition.

A Performance That Surprised Judges

In his first dance routine, Robert and professional dancer Witney Carson performed a high-energy routine using the tune “Born to be Wild.” Robert’s high-energy presence on stage and Witney’s dancing and choreography received immediate praise from the judges’ brilliant panel.

One of the most well-respected judges on the show, Derek Hough, said it was "the best first dance I’ve ever seen on the show", while judge Bruno Tonioli said about the dance, it was "not just good, but great." The positive reaction was justified with Robert receiving a respectable 15 out of 20 points in his first appearance.

Robert was honest in saying he had no dance experience but he felt this was a dream come true. He acknowledged Carson for getting him through rehearsals and helping him feel confident on the ballroom floor. Following the performance, Robert said being able to compete on the show was something he had admired for quite some time, so to finally embrace this opportunity was incredible.

Family Support and Legacy

The night also had many emotional layers to it as Robert’s family came to support him on the premiere night. He had his mom, Terri; sister Bindi; brother-in-law Chandler Powell; and niece Grace attending the premiere, which really made it a family event.

Bindi Irwin, who was the winner of Dancing With the Stars in 2015, expressed her excitement for the night on social media. She posted several of her own images from the evening, which included Terri in a bright red gown and Grace in a sparkly blue dress. In the caption, she referred to the event as “surreal” and expressed pride in seeing her younger brother following in her footsteps.

For the Irwins, it was an event that represented not only a family milestone but also the embodiment of their public persona extending beyond wildlife. Between Bindi's history and Robert's new role, the family has established its footing in both conservation and entertainment.

Robert Irwin got emotional about his sister Bindi after his 'Dancing With the Stars' performance. 🥹 #DWTS34 pic.twitter.com/H4xYFr8qxo

— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) September 17, 2025

Looking Ahead in the Competition

Robert's seemingly easy first performance had set the stage for a very entertaining few weeks ahead. While, no doubt, faced with the difficulties that any celebrity contestants might face, Robert's natural charisma along with his willingness to learn and a combined fan base could help elevate Robert as one of the names to come out of this season.

On the other hand, the showcase performance also represents a new stage in Robert's career. Now changed with broader representation beyond wildlife, with which everyone immediately associates him and yet has considerable leverage through television in Australia and the U.S., is now also taking credit globally.