A Night to Remember on Dancing With the Stars

On Tuesday night, Australian wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin brought one of the most emotional performances in Dancing With the Stars history.

The episode was themed “Dedication Night,” where each celebrity dedicated their dance to someone who had a profound impact on their life. It also marked a special moment in the show’s history — for the first time ever, the person being honored joined their loved one on the dance floor.

While every performance was emotional, Robert Irwin’s tribute to his mom, Terri Irwin, deeply moved the audience and left many viewers in tears.

A Tribute Rooted in Family and Loss

Robert’s father, legendary “Crocodile Hunter” Steve Irwin, tragically passed away in 2006 when Robert was just three years old. Since then, Terri has raised Robert and his sister Bindi as a single mother, dedicating her life to continuing Steve’s mission and supporting their family.

In social media posts shared before Tuesday’s show, Robert opened up about how emotionally challenging the week had been for him.

“We’ve been working hard and I’ve been sort of tapping into emotions that I haven’t really gotten to share before — certainly not publicly,” Robert said in a TikTok video. “I’ve been thinking a lot about my dad, I’ve been thinking a lot about the highs and the lows, the grief, the way my mom has helped me navigate that.”

Terri Irwin Joins Her Son on the Dance Floor

In a powerful moment, Terri Irwin joined her son on the dance floor, marking the emotional highlight of the night.

Following in the footsteps of his sister Bindi Irwin, who won the competition in 2015 and honored their father with a moving dance, Robert dedicated his performance to the woman who stood by him through it all — his mom.

“At every milestone when I just wished that my dad was there, she was there, and that was enough,” Robert told his partner through tears. “I want her to know how proud my dad would be of her.”

Robert danced to “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins, starting the performance with his professional partner Witney Carson, before Terri stepped in at the end to dance alongside her son.

The performance was both tender and powerful, symbolizing their unbreakable bond.

Viewers and Judges Were Overcome with Emotion

The audience was visibly emotional, with many wiping away tears as they watched the touching performance unfold.

Judge Bruno Tonioli praised Robert:

“You gave us all of your heart and soul. This was the true expression of everlasting love.”

Judge Derek Hough was also overcome with emotion, expressing his admiration for the Irwin family:

“I’m just so proud of you. You’ve become such an amazing man. The world needs the Irwin family.”

Robert and Witney received the highest score of the season so far, earning 35 out of 40 points.

A Legacy of Love

Robert Irwin’s vulnerable performance reminded viewers around the world why the Irwin family holds such a special place in so many hearts. His tribute wasn’t just a dance — it was a heartfelt message of gratitude to his mom, who has been his pillar of strength since childhood.

This unforgettable moment will be remembered as one of the most powerful dances in Dancing With the Stars history.

👉 Watch Robert Irwin’s “Dedication Night” dance in honor of his mom in the video below.