Robert Irwin Stuns ‘Dancing with the Stars’ with Perfect Score and Surprise Prince William Video

Robert Irwin’s Emotional Foxtrot: A Tribute Etched in Memory

When the ballroom lights brightened for season 34 of ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ few could have predicted the cascade of emotions that would follow Robert Irwin’s performance. The 21-year-old wildlife conservationist, known for carrying forward his late father Steve Irwin’s legacy, took the stage alongside his professional partner, Witney Carson. Their chosen piece—a Foxtrot set to Leona Lewis’ ‘Footprints in the Sand’—was more than just a dance. It was a living tribute, a bridge between past and present, and a moment that resonated deeply with everyone watching.

This particular song had already carved its place in the show’s history: Robert’s sister, Bindi Irwin, danced to it during season 21, ultimately winning the competition. In the shadow of such family legacy, Robert admitted to Bindi during rehearsals, “There’s a lot of weight. Because I really want it to be our best dance yet, to be honest.” The anticipation was palpable.

As the music began, Robert and Witney glided across the floor dressed in soft white, their movements graceful yet charged with raw emotion. Childhood footage of the Irwin family and images of Steve Irwin were projected across the ballroom, creating a tapestry of memory and love. The moment reached its crescendo when Bindi joined her brother on stage, embracing him as he knelt, overcome by tears. The audience, too, was swept up—there was hardly a dry eye in the house.

Judges Respond: Praise and Tears in Equal Measure

The judges, seasoned veterans of the show, found themselves moved in ways that went beyond technical critique. Bruno Tonioli called it “poetic, touching—a tribute that really touched all of us. I could not take my eyes off of you.” Derek Hough, who had partnered with Bindi during her own triumphant run, reflected on Steve Irwin’s enthusiasm and drew a poignant parallel: “One thing I loved about your father is that he lived life with so much enthusiasm, and you, my friend, are this generation’s beacon of joy and enthusiasm. And you’re not just walking the path that he set, you are dancing it. And you’re dancing it beautifully.”

Carrie Ann Inaba described the performance as “powerful and profound,” while guest judge Tom Bergeron—returning to the show after a five-year absence—shared a personal note. “Last time we saw each other, you were 11. You have grown into a star, Robert. You really have.” Bergeron’s remark seemed to encapsulate the journey not just of Robert, but of the Irwin family’s enduring presence in the public eye.

The judges’ unanimous verdict: four perfect tens, the first such score of the season. Robert and Witney, overwhelmed, jumped and cried, the achievement reflecting both technical mastery and emotional authenticity.

Prince William’s Surprise Message: Royal Support from Afar

As if the night needed another twist, viewers were treated to an unexpected cameo—via video—by Prince William, the Prince of Wales. The royal had reached out to Robert with a heartfelt message, which was played during the show’s pre-dance segment. “We’re missing you, Robert,” the Prince said, referencing Robert’s absence from the 2025 Earthshot Prize Awards in Rio de Janeiro, where Robert was originally scheduled to attend alongside the royal family. “Whilst your twinkle toes are going off elsewhere, I need you down here!”

Prince William’s message was light-hearted but sincere, even addressing Witney: “Witney, you need to get him in as much glitter as you can.” For Witney, hearing her name spoken by a royal was a surreal moment—“I can’t believe he just said my name!” she exclaimed. Robert, still processing the surprise, joked nervously, “Let’s not mess this up!”

The video underscored the global reach and cross-cultural connections of the show, linking conservation, entertainment, and royalty in a single, memorable episode.

A Night of Milestones and Farewells

The episode was notable not only for Robert’s triumph but also for significant moments in the show’s broader narrative. Tom Bergeron, the show’s original host, made a return after five years away, bringing his trademark warmth and wit. Meanwhile, comedian Andy Richter bid farewell to the competition, concluding his journey with partner Emma Slater. Richter’s emotional goodbye was a reminder that for every dazzling performance, there’s a personal story of effort and vulnerability.

For Robert, the night marked a turning point. Achieving the perfect score brought him one step closer to the finale, but more than that, it was a testament to the power of family, memory, and the possibility of connecting hearts across continents.

Legacy and Connection: Beyond the Ballroom

If there was a single thread weaving through the evening, it was the sense of legacy—how the past shapes the present, and how public figures use their platforms to honor those who came before. For Robert, the dance was not just about winning, but about channeling his father’s spirit and celebrating the bond he shares with Bindi. The presence of Prince William, and his encouragement, added another layer, hinting at the broader responsibilities Robert carries as a conservationist and public figure.

The episode reminded viewers that behind every dance is a story—of loss, hope, and the courage to step into the spotlight. Whether in sequins or khaki, Robert Irwin continues to inspire, both as a dancer and as a torchbearer for his family’s mission.

Robert Irwin’s journey on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ is more than a competition—it’s a vivid illustration of how personal history, public service, and global friendship can find common ground in the language of dance. The emotional resonance of his tribute and the outpouring of support from both family and royalty underline how the show can become a stage for healing, celebration, and inspiration.