A wave of controversy has erupted following Robert Irwin’s latest performance on Dancing With the Stars — an emotionally charged routine that featured never-before-seen footage of his late father, Steve Irwin. What was intended as a heartfelt tribute has now divided viewers and ignited one of the biggest debates of the season.
The performance, which aired during “Family Inspiration Week,” saw Robert and partner Witney Carson deliver a stirring contemporary dance to his new song, “Through Your Eyes, Dad.” The dance was set against a backdrop of archival clips showing Steve teaching a young Robert about wildlife, smiling proudly beside his family, and sharing his famous motto: “If you love something, protect it.”
Many fans were moved to tears, calling it one of the most beautiful moments in DWTS history. Social media flooded with messages of support, with one viewer writing, “That wasn’t just a performance — it was a love letter to his father.” Others praised Robert for his courage and vulnerability, saying he honored Steve’s legacy with grace and sincerity.
But not everyone saw it that way. Some critics accused the show — and Robert himself — of crossing a line by turning private grief into public spectacle. One online commentator claimed the performance was “too sad” for a dance competition, while others argued it blurred the boundary between tribute and emotional manipulation.
The controversy quickly escalated, with hashtags like #DWTSStorm and #IrwinDebate trending across X (formerly Twitter). A few outspoken voices even called on producers to “set limits” on how much personal tragedy can be used for storytelling within the show.
Inside sources say DWTS executives are standing by Robert, insisting that the concept came from him personally and that his intent was pure — to honor his father’s memory, not to seek sympathy. “This wasn’t strategy. It was sincerity,” one insider explained.
Still, the debate continues to rage online, dividing fans into two passionate camps — those who believe Robert’s tribute was a healing, human moment, and those who see it as a step too far.
As for Robert, he’s remained silent on the backlash so far, but those close to him say he’s proud of what he shared. “Dad taught me to lead with my heart,” he reportedly told a friend backstage. “That’s all I was trying to do.”
