The iconic dance competition is welcoming a new member of a famous conservationist family. Robert Irwin, wildlife presenter and son of the late Steve Irwin, has been confirmed as a celebrity contestant for the upcoming season of Dancing With the Stars.
This move sees him following the path of his sister, Bindi Irwin, who captured the competition’s top prize, the Mirrorball Trophy, in a previous season. The announcement positions Robert as the first officially named participant for the new season, generating significant anticipation among fans of the show and the Irwin family alike.
In preparation for the physical demands of the competition, Irwin has been focusing on his fitness. He recently participated in a prominent underwear advertising campaign, which highlighted his athletic physique and suggested he is taking the training regimen seriously. The rigorous rehearsal schedule for the show is notoriously challenging, often involving marathon practice sessions.
Irwin has expressed interest in joining the cast for some time. In a 2022 interview, he openly discussed the possibility, noting he had sought advice from his sister about the experience. Bindi Irwin, reflecting on her own time in the competition, has previously emphasized the immense amount of work required behind the scenes, describing it as a significant personal challenge.
The full lineup of celebrities and professional dancers for the season, along with a specific premiere date, has yet to be announced by the network. Historically, the show has launched in the fall.
The new contestants will aim to match the intensity of the most recent season, which was won by former Bachelor star Joey Graziadei and his professional partner, Jenna Johnson. Graziadei has since spoken candidly about the physical toll of the competition, revealing the intense training led to rapid weight loss, a change so noticeable it was pointed out by his then-fiancée.
Despite the grueling nature of the process, Graziadei praised the experience as incredibly rewarding, stating it was an effective way to stay in peak physical condition. As Robert Irwin prepares to take the ballroom floor, he enters a competition known for both its glamour and its grit.
