Robert Irwin made his Dancing With the Stars debut one to remember, closing out the season 34 premiere with a high-energy jive that wowed both the judges and his family. Paired with pro dancer Witney Carson, the 21-year-old tied for the top spot on the leaderboard after scoring 15 out of 20.
Performing to Steppenwolf’s “Born to be Wild,” Irwin’s routine was packed with tricks and playful wildlife-inspired flair. Judge Derek Hough awarded him an eight, while Bruno Tonioli gave him a seven, securing the Aussie an impressive first-night finish.
For fans, the performance felt like déjà vu – Irwin’s sister Bindi won DWTS season 21 back in 2015 alongside now-judge Hough. Like his sister, Robert had his family proudly cheering him on from the audience, and both Terri and Bindi later took to Instagram to celebrate his big moment.
Terri commented simply, “I am so proud,” while Bindi posted an enthusiastic, “CRIKEY!!!!!!!!”
The show’s official Instagram also joined the fun, writing, “Robert & Witney looked so natural on the dance floor during their WILD Jive! 🔥 Incredible way to close out the #DWTS Premiere 👏”
Other stars chimed in too. Former contestant Danny Amendola hyped the duo with “Woo woooooo!!” while season 33 alum Jenn Tran declared, “THAT WAS INSANE🔥🔥🔥”
Fans flooded the comments with predictions:
“They’re winning. I’m calling it. Great performance, great choreography.” One said.
“WE KNEW IT WOULD BE GOOD BUT WE DIDNT KNOW IT WOULD BE THAT GOOD.” Another commented.
“I’m sorry ARE THEY THE UNEXPECTED FINALISTS?! 👀💃🪩” A third wrote.
“I’m still crying bc his dad would be so proud of him 😭” A fourth added.
The excitement begs the question: could Robert and Witney go all the way and lift the Mirrorball Trophy?
New episodes of Dancing With the Stars season 34 air Tuesdays on ABC and Disney Plus.
Images: Instagram
