Australia's beloved wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin has become an overnight sensation in the United States, but his Hollywood success has reportedly sparked family concerns that he may not return home.
From Wildlife Warrior to Dance Floor Star
The 21-year-old Irwin joined the cast of Dancing With The Stars in September 2025, quickly winning over American audiences with his debut performance and natural charm. His rise on the popular competition show has transformed him from a wildlife presenter to a genuine celebrity in the American entertainment circuit.
According to sources close to the Irwin family who spoke with RadarOnline, Robert has fully embraced life in Los Angeles and currently has no immediate plans to return to Australia. The young conservationist has been welcomed into Hollywood's inner circles, receiving invitations to high-profile events and celebrity gifts that have apparently captivated him.
Family Concerns and Intervention Efforts
Insiders reveal that Robert's immersion in the Hollywood lifestyle has caused significant concern within his family. "That has sent his family into a panic," a source disclosed, noting that his mother Terri Irwin and sister Bindi have grown increasingly worried about his potential permanent relocation.
Bindi Irwin, who famously won Dancing With The Stars in 2015, recently relocated to Los Angeles with her daughter Grace to support Robert during his competition season. However, sources suggest her presence serves a dual purpose. "She went under the guise of helping out with some publicity for him, but the truth is she wants to help reel him back in. She's very worried," the insider added.
The source further explained that "He's completely under the Hollywood spell right now, and it's no wonder because he's getting spoiled rotten. His mom and sister can't help worrying what it will do to him."
Family Support and Emotional Tributes
Throughout the competition, Robert has received strong family support. Terri Irwin, along with Bindi and her husband Chandler Powell, 29, have been regularly spotted in Robert's dressing room during the season, showing their unwavering support for his journey.
On Thursday night, Robert shared a heartfelt Instagram post with his DWTS partner, Whitney Carson, 32, giving fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse of their final rehearsal sessions. The duo appeared happy and relaxed, frequently high-fiving and encouraging followers to vote for their performances.
"This is us trying to record any video we do," Robert joked in the post. "But seriously, this experience has meant the world to us, and now we get to give it our all, one last time."
He described their final dance as "a celebration of this journey" and expressed gratitude to fans who supported them throughout the season. "We are so grateful that you've voted to keep us here week after week. It's going to be a special week — see you for the finale!"
Fans flooded the post with supportive messages, including comments like "MY WINNERS! Robert deserves the world and Whitney deserves another win," and "You guys are such siblings!"
Honouring His Father's Legacy
Despite his Hollywood immersion, Robert has maintained strong connections to his Australian roots and family legacy. Earlier this year, he shared a touching moment from a June flight when he discovered the in-flight entertainment system featured his late father Steve Irwin's adventure-comedy movie, The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course, as the first suggestion.
On the Dancing With The Stars stage, Robert has continued to honour his father's memory. Following in his sister Bindi's footsteps—who dedicated a song to Steve during her 2015 competition—Robert dedicated his foxtrot performance to his late father, drawing direct inspiration from Bindi's own heartfelt tribute.
The Season 34 finale of Dancing With The Stars airs next week, with the winner scheduled to be announced during the grand finale. As Robert prepares for his final performance, Australian fans and his family await to see whether his Hollywood success will ultimately bring him home or keep him in the United States indefinitely.
