Robert Irwin has never been one to shy away from adventure — but even he admits this year has taken some unexpected turns. In a candid new interview, the 21-year-old wildlife conservationist and Dancing With the Stars breakout reflected on his whirlwind rise, his bold decisions, and the backlash that’s followed. “Doing an underwear ad and dancing was definitely not on my bingo card,” he laughed. “But I’ve learned that sometimes, growth looks nothing like what you planned.”
The last few months have been transformative for Robert, who stunned fans earlier this year when he appeared in a global underwear campaign celebrating confidence and body positivity. The shoot, which sparked headlines worldwide, was followed by his fearless run on DWTS, where his expressive routines — including a few shirtless moments — became a lightning rod for both praise and criticism.
“It’s funny — people think it’s about shock value or attention,” Robert explained. “But for me, it’s about stepping into a new chapter and being okay with who I am. I’ve spent my life surrounded by wildlife, cameras, and expectations. Now I’m just trying to find me in all of it.”
Robert acknowledged that the criticism hasn’t been easy, particularly from fans who see him as the “innocent kid” who grew up at Australia Zoo. “There are people who still see me as that 8-year-old holding a baby crocodile,” he said. “But I’m 21 now. I’m still passionate about conservation — that hasn’t changed — but I’m also growing, learning, and evolving like anyone else my age.”
His decision to embrace new experiences, from modeling to dance, hasn’t been without reflection. Robert revealed that every opportunity has been rooted in authenticity, not image. “I’m not doing any of this to prove anything to anyone,” he said. “I just want to live fully — to explore art, movement, and creativity in ways that scare me a little.”
Many fans have praised Robert’s honesty, calling him a role model for authenticity and self-acceptance. “He’s breaking out of the box people put him in,” one supporter commented. “Steve would be proud of his courage.” Even industry insiders have commended his openness, noting how rare it is for young public figures to speak so vulnerably about identity and growth.
Still, Robert doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable parts. “Yeah, it’s weird seeing your name trending for things like that,” he admitted with a laugh. “But at the end of the day, I’m proud of what I’ve done. I’ve worked hard, I’ve pushed myself, and I’ve learned that being comfortable in your own skin — literally and figuratively — is a powerful thing.”
He also credited his family, especially his sister Bindi and mother Terri, for grounding him through the whirlwind of fame and feedback. “They’ve always encouraged me to follow my heart,” Robert said. “Mum always says, ‘Do what makes you proud, not what makes others happy.’ That’s kind of become my motto.”
As the year winds down, Robert hinted that more unexpected projects are on the horizon — though he’s keeping details under wraps. “I think life’s meant to surprise us,” he smiled. “And if this year has taught me anything, it’s that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead you to the most amazing places.”
For Robert Irwin, the boy who grew up in khakis and crocodiles, it’s clear that his next great adventure isn’t just in the wild — it’s within himself.
