Robert Irwin Wins Dancing with the Stars, Carrying On the Irwin Family Legacy a Decade After Bindi's Victory

Robert Irwin, the 21-year-old son of the late wildlife icon Steve Irwin, has claimed the Dancing with the Stars crown in a finale that nods to a powerful family legacy. The competition pairs celebrities with professional dancers, with viewers voting to decide the winner.

Irwin entered the finale as a clear fan favorite, delivering standout routines across 11 weeks, including a heartfelt tribute to his father and a surprise appearance by his sister Bindi. The episode carried an unmistakable Australian flavor, with one routine set to a track by Jet, the country’s famous rock band.

During the three-hour finale, Irwin and his pro partner Witney Carson also performed to songs by Avicii and Sam Sparro, showcasing a blend of global hits and personal significance. They clinched the win after taking part in the instant dance challenge, where the pair were given the style and song only moments before taking the stage.

Irwin competed the finale despite a rib injury and outperformed fellow finalists including influencer Alix Earle and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles. While several contestants earned perfect scores for their initial dances, Irwin soon joined the elite with a perfect mark of his own.

He broke into tears after delivering his final performance, saying he hoped to make his father proud. "I wish he could see it, I really wish he could be here," he said. Steve Irwin, famed as the Crocodile Hunter, was killed in 2006 during a diving incident off the Australian coast when Robert was a baby. In the years since, Robert has pursued wildlife work, photography, and became an Earthshot ambassador, continuing his father and family’s conservation legacy.

Key Takeaways

• Robert Irwin wins Dancing with the Stars, echoing a family legacy that spans wildlife advocacy and television.
• The finale featured tributes to Steve Irwin and a surprise Bindi appearance, highlighting the family bond.
• Irwin overcame a rib injury to triumph in one of the show’s most emotional seasons.

Expert commentary

Entertainment analyst Maya Chen notes that the victory reinforces the Irwins as a multi-generational brand, resonating with viewers who value both performance and purpose. The win also demonstrates Irwins resilience and broad appeal beyond wildlife work.

Summary

Robert Irwin has clinched the Dancing with the Stars title, reinforcing the Irwin family’s presence in entertainment and conservation. The season delivered emotional moments, high level dancing, and a strong connection with audiences around the world. Irwin's blend of showmanship and advocacy positions him as a unique figure in reality television.

Robert Irwin's DWTS victory underscores the enduring appeal of the Irwin name and his ability to merge entertainment with wildlife advocacy. BBC News