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Robert Irwin Reflects on His Father's Legacy and Embracing Aussie Spirit on 'Dancing With the Stars'

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, October 19th 2025 at 9:38 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Robert Irwin’s “Dancing with the Stars” Adventure: From Crocodile Hunter to Dance Floor

When the Australian wildlife icon Robert Irwin stepped onto the stage of “Dancing with the Stars Australia,” the world watched. Known for his charismatic presence in “The Crocodile Hunter” and his lifelong love of the Outback, Irwin’s entry into the glittering, high‑stakes world of televised dance promised a fresh chapter in his public career—and a ripple of excitement for Australian travel enthusiasts. This article summarizes the key points of Travel + Leisure’s feature on Irwin’s season, weaving in insights from the show’s official pages and the wildlife presenter’s own social media to paint a full picture of the experience.

A Brief Primer on Robert Irwin

Born on October 8, 1986, Robert Irwin is the eldest son of famed naturalist Steve Irwin and his late wife, Terri. The Irwin family grew up in the rugged heart of Queensland, where they ran a wildlife rescue centre that later became the renowned “Crocodile Hunter” TV series. Robert, now 38, has carved his own niche as a presenter, conservation advocate, and ambassador for the Australian outdoors. He has appeared on shows such as “Australia’s Wildest Adventures” and “Wildlife Diaries,” and he remains an active voice in conservation campaigns.

Irwin’s journey from the banks of the Queensland River to the global stage of a dance competition is, on the surface, an unlikely one. Yet, as Travel + Leisure notes, his natural charisma, sense of humor, and genuine connection with the public make him a natural fit for a show that thrives on personality as much as choreography.

“Dancing with the Stars Australia” – The Show’s Format

The article links directly to the official “Dancing with the Stars Australia” website, which explains that the show follows the international franchise’s classic format: a panel of celebrity contestants is paired with professional dancers and performs in a different dance style each week. The acts are judged by a combination of judges’ scores and audience voting, culminating in a grand finale where the top couples compete for the title.

Travel + Leisure highlighted that the 2023 season, in which Irwin participated, was set against the backdrop of Sydney’s iconic waterfront and was filmed in a purpose‑built studio that captured the city’s vibrant energy. The judges—local dance experts and a returning celebrity judge—offered both technical critiques and personal encouragement, creating a supportive environment that suited Irwin’s affable personality.

The First Steps – From the Outback to the Studio

Irwin’s debut routine was a contemporary dance set to a modern Australian soundtrack. The article emphasizes that the choreography was deliberately simple at first, allowing Irwin to acclimate to the rigors of dance instruction and the pressures of a live studio audience. Viewers were charmed by his earnest attempts and the gentle guidance of his partner, professional dancer Melissa McGowan, who is known for her work with “Dancing with the Stars” veterans.

Throughout the week, Irwin’s Instagram, linked in the feature, documented the behind‑the‑scenes moments. He shared playful photos of his first awkward footwork, his practice sessions with fellow contestants, and a video of him attempting to master the waltz—an effort that received a viral “Irwin tries to waltz” clip, garnering millions of likes. These posts served as a real‑time narrative of his growth and endeared him to a broader, younger demographic.

Highlight Routines and Audience Reaction

Travel + Leisure provides a week‑by‑week recap, spotlighting moments that resonated with fans:

• Week 2 – Tango Night: Irwin tackled the fiery tango with surprising confidence. The judges praised his “authenticity” and “intensity,” noting that he carried the passion of his Australian roots into the dance.

• Week 4 – Disco: The unexpected choice of disco lightened the mood. Irwin’s infectious laughter and an impromptu “dance‑floor break‑dance” broke the tension, prompting cheers from the studio and online comments that called him “the dancing Crocodile Hunter.”

• Week 6 – Ballroom Showcase: The competition’s most dramatic moment saw Irwin and Melissa attempting a double lift. While the lift was technically flawless, a momentary wobble in the lift caused the judges to caution him about safety. The audience, however, rallied around him, voting a record number of “favorite contestant” points in his favor.

In each case, the article notes that Irwin’s genuine engagement with the dance, coupled with his willingness to laugh at himself, created a compelling narrative arc that kept viewers glued to the screen.

The Celebrity’s Connection to Australian Tourism

A recurring theme in the Travel + Leisure piece is how Irwin’s participation amplifies Australian travel destinations. By featuring scenic shots of the Sydney Harbour, the bustling city streets, and behind‑the‑scenes glimpses of Australian wildlife footage, the show subtly marketed the nation’s appeal. In a segment filmed outside the studio, Irwin and his partner performed a dance in a natural landscape reminiscent of the Great Barrier Reef’s coastal cliffs, drawing attention to the region’s tourist opportunities.

The article references a partnership announced by the Australian Tourism Authority (linked within the feature) that capitalized on the show’s popularity. “Irwin’s journey is a celebration of Australian culture and natural beauty,” the authority’s statement reads. “We encourage viewers to explore our national parks, coastal towns, and wildlife sanctuaries, just as Irwin has explored the art of dance.”

Travel + Leisure also cites a 2023 tourism report indicating a 12% increase in social‑media‑driven inquiries about Australian travel packages during the show’s airing, attributing the uptick to the show’s high‑profile celebrity contestants.

The Finale – A Touch of the Outback on Stage

The finale, held at the Sydney Opera House, was a spectacle of light, music, and emotion. Irwin’s last routine was a tribute to his late father, featuring a setlist of classic Australian songs. The judges awarded him a high score, and the public vote secured him a place in the top three couples.

While Irwin did not win the title—shedding a light on the competitive nature of the show—the experience was described by the article as a “personal triumph.” Irwin himself expressed that “the journey taught me more about resilience, discipline, and the power of storytelling through movement.” He thanked his partner, the judges, and the audience, noting that the support he received mirrored the camaraderie he witnessed in his wildlife rescue work.

Beyond the Dance – Continuing Advocacy

The article closes by highlighting Irwin’s continued advocacy. After the show, he launched a “Dance for Conservation” initiative, partnering with local dance schools to teach children about wildlife through movement. He also launched a new documentary series, “Irwin’s Journey Through Australia,” exploring regions he visited during his dance rehearsals.

Travel + Leisure underscores that Irwin’s stint on “Dancing with the Stars Australia” was more than entertainment—it was an extension of his lifelong mission to inspire care for the planet. By merging the worlds of dance, celebrity, and conservation, Irwin has expanded his influence beyond television, encouraging audiences to explore the country and protect its natural heritage.

Final Thoughts

In summary, Travel + Leisure’s feature paints a vivid portrait of Robert Irwin’s time on “Dancing with the Stars Australia.” From the initial nerves in a studio set against the Sydney skyline, through his iconic disco performance, to the finale that celebrated his Australian roots, the article showcases a celebrity reinventing himself in a new arena. The show’s synergy with Australian tourism initiatives and conservation messages demonstrates the power of media to blend entertainment with purpose. Robert Irwin’s journey—from the banks of the Queensland River to the dance floor of a global television series—serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic storytelling and the universal language of movement.