Robert Irwin could not contain his tears after his “Dancing With the Stars” routine on the Nov. 11 episode.
Celebrating the show’s 20th anniversary, each couple performed an old routine done by a previous “DWTS” couple. The 21-year-old wildlife conservationist and partner Witney Carson performed a foxtrot to “Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis.
The routine was extra special because it was the one that his older sister, Bindi Irwin, danced with her then-partner Derek Hough during Season 21, which they won. Bindi Irwin had dedicated it to their late father Steve Irwin.
During rehearsal, Bindi Irwin told her brother how proud she was of him.
“There’s a lot of weight,” Robert Irwin told the cameras. “I want it to be our best dance yet, to be honest.”
Bindi Irwin also said about her performance, “A part of me healed that day. So now I hope that Robert gets that same experience.”
Additionally during rehearsal, Prince William also surprised Robert Irwin with a video call. The young Australian was supposed to attend The Earthshot Prize event in Brazil with British royal but was unable to because he is still competing on the show.
“We’re missing you, Robert. Whilst your twinkle toes are going elsewhere, I need you down here,” William joked. “You guys got a seriously good chance of winning. Just the best of luck on the show.”
After the call, Robert Irwin said, “We are doing this dance for Bindi and we’re doing this dance for Prince William. Let’s not mess this up.”
Robert Irwin and Carson then delivered an emotional routine. As they flawlessly executed the number, towards the end of the dance, Bindi Irwin joined her brother.
When all three held hands as they wrapped, projected on the ballroom floor were scenes of Steve Irwin holding a young Robert Irwin. Robert Irwin was nearly 3 years old when his father died.
Robert Irwin then suddenly kneeled, overcome with emotion as his sister and Carson embraced him. He was in tears as he went over to the judges to get his feedback.
Bruno Tonioli described it as a “poetic, touching tribute,” adding, “You got the royal seal of approval, now you got America’s seal of approval!”
While Carrie Ann Inaba did point out a mistake, she called Robert Irwin a “beautiful storyteller.” Derek Hough also was choking up seeing his former routine come to life again. He told Robert Irwin that he is this “generation’s beacon of joy, you are dancing it beautifully.”
Guest judge Tom Bergeron recalled meeting Robert Irwin 10 years ago when his sister competed, adding, “You have grown into a star.”
For the Oct. 14 Dedication Night episode, Robert Irwin had previously honored his mom Terri Irwin.
When talking to Julianne Hough, Robert Irwin once again got teary-eyed talking about his and his father’s dedication to wildlife conservation. He said he’s only ever wanted to make his father proud. He also added that the footage projected came as a surprise to him, making him more emotional.
“I didn’t know that footage was going to be there at the end,” he said, getting emotional. “Every time that I step onto that floor, I represent my dad, his message and what he stood for and I just want to make him proud. He’s my hero.”
