The ballroom is about to erupt. Robert Irwin has officially confirmed he’s stepping into the spotlight on Dancing With the Stars season 34, and fans are already buzzing with excitement. In a fiery announcement that sent social media into a frenzy, Irwin shouted, “It’s happening!” while sharing behind-the-scenes rehearsal photos. Producers are reportedly betting on him to be one of the breakout stars of the season, with rivalries, alliances, and fan campaigns already taking shape before the premiere even airs.
On August 28, Irwin teased fans with photos from rehearsals, including a mid-air jump in front of the glowing DWTS sign and a playful pose pointing upward beneath it. His caption summed up the whirlwind he’s stepping into: “IT’S HAPPENING 😱🤩🎉 Rehearsals have begun … I am equal parts excited and sore 😅.” The candid confession quickly sparked a flood of support, with fans, fellow contestants, and even pro dancers jumping into the comments.
Much of the excitement centers on who Irwin’s dance partner will be. Fans are loudly hoping for a pairing with rising pro Rylee Arnold, calling the duo a perfect match. “They have the same beautiful golden retriever energy,” one fan gushed, while another declared, “Rylee Arnold better be your partner!!!” Others promised to vote for him no matter what, with one follower joking, “Immediately votes for you.”
The support hasn’t just come from fans—Irwin’s family and the DWTS cast are cheering him on too. His sister, Bindi Irwin, who famously won the Mirrorball Trophy in 2015, offered a heartfelt “Woohoooo!!!!” while their mom Terri called the news “Fantastic!” Professional dancers Emma Slater and Sasha Farber also chimed in, with Farber encouraging him to “Get it mate!!!” Even the Australia Zoo joined the celebration, posting, “We can’t wait!!!🤩👏🏼.”
Irwin himself is clearly feeling the family connection. In another rehearsal video, he pointed to a photo of his sister Bindi hanging on the studio wall, joking: “My mirrorball champ sister ‘watching’ me while I rehearse … no pressure 😂😅.” Bindi responded with her trademark encouragement: “You. Got. This. 🙌 Cheering for you always!!” For fans, the moment underscored the emotional full-circle journey—ten years after Robert sat in the front row rooting for his sister, he’s now following in her footsteps.
Even the judges see big things ahead. At a Disney Entertainment Television event earlier this year, Derek Hough reflected on Irwin’s growth and potential. “It’s been 10 years since that little guy was on the front row rooting for Bindi,” he said. “And to see the man that he’s become is pretty amazing. We’re really lucky to have him.” Hough added that Irwin’s authenticity and positivity will help him stand out: “When you are truly authentic in that way, it really pierces through. I think he’s going to go far just based off of the person he is.”
With his natural charisma, heartfelt story, and fanbase stretching across continents, Robert Irwin’s DWTS debut is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in years. From shirtless rehearsal teases to emotional family connections, he has already sparked a wave of excitement before even stepping onto the ballroom floor.
Season 34 of Dancing With the Stars is promising glitz, rivalry, and unforgettable performances—but if the early buzz is any indication, Robert Irwin won’t just be a contestant. He may very well become the heart of the season.
