Robert Irwin’s journey on Dancing With the Stars has been filled with cheers, standing ovations, and unforgettable performances — but it has also brought unexpected challenges off the dance floor. This week, the wildlife conservationist turned dancer faced a wave of harsh online criticism from some viewers who accused him of receiving inflated scores because of his famous last name.
In a heartfelt video posted to social media, Robert addressed the backlash directly, his voice trembling with emotion. Fighting back tears but standing firm, he rejected claims that he had been favored by the judges because of his family legacy. “Every single point I’ve earned has come from hours of hard work, sweat, and dedication with Witney [Carson],” he said. “Nothing has been handed to me.”
The criticism, which spread across social media following his latest performance, struck a particularly painful chord. Some commenters claimed judges were “going easy” on him because he is the son of Steve Irwin, the late Crocodile Hunter whose legacy continues to inspire millions. Others suggested his family name gave him an unfair advantage in winning over the audience.
Robert did not shy away from admitting that the words hurt. “It’s tough, I won’t lie,” he said. “But I refuse to let that negativity break me. I’m here to give my absolute all — for the fans, for my partner, and for the memory of my dad who taught me to chase life with passion and courage.”
Almost immediately, his honesty sparked a wave of love and support. Fans flooded the comments with messages praising his strength and resilience. “Robert, you don’t need to prove anything — your dancing speaks for itself,” one supporter wrote. Another added, “Your dad would be so proud. Keep shining, mate.”
Professional partner Witney Carson also weighed in, posting a short but powerful statement of support. “Robert works harder than anyone I know. Every step, every rehearsal, every late night — he earns it. Period.” Her words echoed what many in the ballroom community have quietly shared: that Robert’s commitment behind the scenes is unmatched.
Industry insiders note that backlash is nothing new for DWTS contestants, especially those with well-known names. But Robert’s vulnerability in choosing to confront the criticism head-on has made his response stand out. Instead of ignoring the negativity, he turned it into a message of perseverance and integrity.
As the season pushes forward, the controversy has only strengthened Robert’s determination. “I’ll keep dancing with everything I have,” he vowed. “No matter what’s said, the joy I feel on that stage — that’s real, and that’s what I’ll hold onto.”
In the end, Robert Irwin’s emotional message reminded viewers that DWTS is about more than scores or titles. It’s about heart, resilience, and the courage to rise above the noise. And for many fans, that’s exactly what makes his journey worth watching.
