Robert Irwin may have grown up under the bright lights of Australian wildlife parks, but now he’s proving he can thrive just as easily under the glittering spotlight of Hollywood’s biggest ballroom. The 21-year-old conservationist, son of the late “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, has been stealing the show on Dancing With the Stars Season 34 — and as rehearsals for Week 4 kick off, fans can’t get enough of his partnership with professional dancer Witney Carson.
The duo, affectionately dubbed “Team Irwin” by viewers online, have quickly become one of the most talked-about pairs of the season. Their chemistry is undeniable, their performances electric, and Robert’s unexpected talent on the dancefloor has stunned both audiences and judges alike.
From Wildlife Warrior to Dancefloor Sensation
Irwin has spent much of his life championing conservation, following in his father’s footsteps with his work at Australia Zoo. Known for his passion for animals and his warm, down-to-earth personality, few expected him to also be a natural-born performer. But DWTS fans argue that’s exactly what he is.
Despite admitting that he had no formal dance experience prior to joining the show, Robert has displayed a sharp ability to pick up choreography, match rhythm, and perform with charisma. Viewers who tuned in to his Week 3 salsa routine were left stunned when he ripped off his shirt mid-performance, sending social media into a frenzy.
“Robert Irwin is all grown up,” one fan commented, while another joked: “Tell him he wins for effort — and abs!” Even judge Bruno Tonioli couldn’t resist, comparing him to a young Chris Hemsworth and dubbing him the “million-dollar body.”
The Witney Effect
Of course, much of Robert’s early success can be credited to his partner, seasoned DWTS pro Witney Carson. A veteran of the show and a Mirrorball champion, Witney has developed a reputation for bringing out the best in her celebrity partners.
Together, she and Robert have formed what fans are calling the “most adorable duo” of the season. Off the dancefloor, their interactions are warm and lighthearted, with Witney often laughing at Robert’s self-deprecating humor and Robert praising her patience and guidance.
“They’re just so cute together,” one viewer wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “You can tell they genuinely enjoy working as a team, and that’s what makes their performances shine.”
Behind the scenes, their rehearsals are becoming just as beloved as their live performances. Clips of their Week 4 preparations show Robert throwing himself into complex choreography with determination and surprising agility, while Witney cheers him on with a mix of encouragement and playful teasing.
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Rising Stars of Season 34
While DWTS always produces its fair share of fan-favorites, Robert and Witney are already being tipped as frontrunners.
“His dancing skills are insane, especially considering he has no prior experience,” one fan commented. “I can see them making it to the final four — easily.”
So far, their scores back up the buzz. Their Week 3 salsa earned 22 out of 30, placing them comfortably near the top of the leaderboard. Though not the highest-scoring couple — Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa currently hold that title — Robert’s trajectory has fans and critics alike predicting he will only improve as the competition heats up.
Judge Carrie Ann Inaba has praised Robert’s “natural performance energy,” while Derek Hough has called him “one to watch.”
A Family Affair
Robert’s DWTS journey hasn’t just been about personal growth — it’s also become a family affair. His mother Terri and sister Bindi have both been vocal supporters, with Bindi — who famously won Season 21 of DWTS with Derek Hough — offering tips and cheering him on from afar.
“She’s been giving me so much advice,” Robert said in a recent rehearsal clip. “She told me to just have fun, stay present, and trust Witney. She knows what she’s talking about — she’s got the Mirrorball to prove it!”
Adding to the excitement, Robert’s girlfriend Rorie Buckey has also been spotted in the audience, supporting him during live tapings.
The Road Ahead
As rehearsals for Week 4 continue, anticipation is building around what Robert and Witney will bring to the ballroom next. While the official dance style for the week hasn’t been revealed, insiders hint that the couple is preparing a high-energy number that will once again showcase Robert’s ability to command the stage.
Whether or not they make it to the final four — or even take home the Mirrorball Trophy — one thing is certain: Robert Irwin has cemented himself as one of the breakout stars of Season 34.
“He’s got charisma, heart, and insane potential,” a longtime DWTS viewer wrote in a fan forum. “And paired with Witney, the sky’s the limit.”
Fans Can’t Get Enough
On social media, clips of Robert and Witney’s rehearsals rack up thousands of likes within hours, with commenters calling them “the couple to root for.”
“They just radiate joy,” one Instagram user said. “Even in rehearsal, you can see how hard they’re working but also how much fun they’re having. That’s what makes them stand out.”
Another fan added: “Robert is proof that DWTS isn’t just about dance — it’s about growth, confidence, and connection. Watching him transform week by week is inspiring.”
Final Thoughts
As Week 4 looms, Robert Irwin and Witney Carson are proving they have all the ingredients of a winning DWTS duo: undeniable chemistry, steady improvement, and an underdog story that resonates with viewers.
Robert may have stepped into the ballroom as a wildlife warrior, but he’s quickly evolving into a fan-favorite performer. With Witney by his side, many believe this charming duo won’t just survive the competition — they’ll thrive all the way to the finals.
Only time — and the voting public — will decide if Robert can follow in his sister Bindi’s footsteps and claim the Mirrorball Trophy. But for now, fans are savoring every rehearsal clip, every performance, and every smile from DWTS’ most adorable duo.
