Robert Irwin was joined by his mom for a “Dedication Night” dance. (Photo credit: Robert Irwin/Instagram)
On Tuesday night, Australian wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin brought one of the most emotional performances Dancing With the Stars has ever seen.
The latest episode of Dancing With the Stars was “Dedication Night.” Every dance was dedicated to an influential person who had an impact on the star’s life. It also marked the first time in the show’s history that the person being honored joined their loved one on the dance floor.
Every performance was emotional, but Robert Irwin‘s dance took the cake. The Aussie star paid tribute to his mom who became a single mother when Robert’s dad, Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, died in 2006. Robert was only 2 years old when his dad lost his life while filming a documentary off the coast of Australia.
In social media posts shared before Tuesday’s show, Irwin documented his challenging week, saying that it’s caused him to reflect on his dad’s death and the energy his mom put into helping him and his sister navigate it.
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“We’ve been working hard and I’ve been sort of tapping into emotions that I haven’t really gotten to share before — certainly not publicly,” Robert said in a TikTok video. “I’ve been thinking a lot about my dad, I’ve been thinking a lot about the highs and the lows, the grief, the way my mom has helped me navigate that.”
Robert Irwin’s mom, Terri, joined him on the dance floor.
Following in the footsteps of his sister Bindi, who won the show in 2015, Robert’s dance showed the world that their parents’ influence on their lives is profound. Bindi honored her late dad with a moving performance with her professional partner Derek Hough.
Robert told his partner through tears that he’s never been able to capture the gratitude that he feels for his mom.
“At every milestone when I just wished that my dad was there, she was there, and that was enough,” Robert said. “I want her to know how proud my dad would be of her.”
Fans knew that Robert’s dance would be a tear-jerker, but no one anticipated just how emotional it would be. “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins was the backdrop for the beautiful dance. Robert and Witney started out the dance together, and Terri stepped in for Witney at the end.
The audience was in tears as they watched the beautiful moment unfold. The judges had nothing but praise for Robert.
“You gave us all of your heart and soul,” Bruno Tonioli said. “This was the true expression of everlasting love.”
Derek Hough was overcome with emotion as he expressed his love for the Irwin family to Terri. “I’m just so proud of you. You’ve become such an amazing man. The world needs the Irwin family.”
Robert and Witney earned the highest scores of the season so far with 35 out of 40 possible points.
Watch Robert Irwin’s “Dedication Night” dance in honor of his mom in the video below.
